Growing Inland Achievement

Author: Growing Inland Achievement

  • The Emotional and Social Struggles of 4th Graders After the Pandemic

    The Emotional and Social Struggles of 4th Graders After the Pandemic

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 4.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we dive into the unique challenges faced by 9-year-olds who missed crucial in-person kindergarten and first-grade experiences due to the pandemic. These now-4th graders are struggling socially and emotionally, and educators are working tirelessly to help them catch up academically while also addressing their emotional needs.

    We hear from Pearla Badena, a 4th-grade teacher at SeaView Elementary in the Coachella Valley Unified School District, who shares the struggles her students face with social interactions, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation. Pearla discusses how teachers are adapting to support students in these areas and provides advice for parents looking to help their children build confidence and manage their emotions.

    Additionally, Cara Molina, Executive Director for Health and Wellness Services in the Ontario-Montclair School District, explains the district’s efforts to provide social-emotional support for students. Cara highlights the importance of creating a comprehensive system of care to address these issues at the district level and shares recommendations for how parents, teachers, and schools can work together to support children in overcoming these challenges.

    Featured Guest

    Pearla Badena

    4th Grade Educator, SeaView Elementary School in the Coachella Valley Unified School District

    Cara Molina began her journey in the education field in 2003 as a Classified staff member working in Food Services and then as an Instructional Aide.  As a Classified staff member, wife, and mother of five children, she was empowered by her mentors, who were all educational leaders, and decided to pursue her dream going back to school as a first generation college graduate to become a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and now currently is the Executive Director of Health & Wellness Services in the Ontario-Montclair School District (OMSD) in Southern California, the third largest PK-8th grade district in California, which serves over 18,000 students in 33 schools.  She co-leads district-wide implementation of the OMSD Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) and leads district implementation of Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Restorative Practices, Trauma-Informed Practices, Medical Billing, Homelessness Services, Community Schools, Mental Health, Case Management, and School Health. With her department team, OMSD has been awarded several state and local grants to provide in-district behavioral health, clinical mental health, and clinical social work services. In 2024, she was recognized with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 12 Central Office Administrator of the Year Award. She has presented at the ACSA Every Child Counts Conference, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) Conference, Southern Regional Student Wellness Conference, and other state and local conferences.  She earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Administrative Credential at the University of La Verne.  From her experiences in overcoming barriers of poverty and trauma, she is a committed to opening pathways for students, families, and staff to realize dreams they may never thought possible, increasing inclusive practices, and is passionate in supporting current and future educational leaders in transformational and inclusive leadership practices for ongoing positive change supporting the whole-child.

    Cara Molina
    Executive Director for the Health & Wellness Services Department, Ontario-Montclair School District

    Cara Molina began her journey in the education field in 2003 as a Classified staff member working in Food Services and then as an Instructional Aide.  As a Classified staff member, wife, and mother of five children, she was empowered by her mentors, who were all educational leaders, and decided to pursue her dream going back to school as a first generation college graduate to become a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and now currently is the Executive Director of Health & Wellness Services in the Ontario-Montclair School District (OMSD) in Southern California, the third largest PK-8th grade district in California, which serves over 18,000 students in 33 schools.  She co-leads district-wide implementation of the OMSD Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) and leads district implementation of Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Restorative Practices, Trauma-Informed Practices, Medical Billing, Homelessness Services, Community Schools, Mental Health, Case Management, and School Health. With her department team, OMSD has been awarded several state and local grants to provide in-district behavioral health, clinical mental health, and clinical social work services. In 2024, she was recognized with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 12 Central Office Administrator of the Year Award. She has presented at the ACSA Every Child Counts Conference, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) Conference, Southern Regional Student Wellness Conference, and other state and local conferences.  She earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Administrative Credential at the University of La Verne.  From her experiences in overcoming barriers of poverty and trauma, she is a committed to opening pathways for students, families, and staff to realize dreams they may never thought possible, increasing inclusive practices, and is passionate in supporting current and future educational leaders in transformational and inclusive leadership practices for ongoing positive change supporting the whole-child.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: Breaking Barriers for Latinas in Leadership Roles with Claudia Valdez

    Education Insight: Breaking Barriers for Latinas in Leadership Roles with Claudia Valdez

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 3.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we’re joined by Dr. Claudia Valdez, Administrative Services Manager in the Office of the Provost at California Baptist University. Dr. Valdez is also a researcher focused on the lack of diversity in mid-level management in both business and higher education. She shares her journey and the insights from her dissertation, which focuses on the challenges faced by Latinas aspiring to leadership roles.

    Throughout the episode, Dr. Valdez discusses the systemic barriers that contribute to the underrepresentation of Latina leaders in mid-level management positions. She reflects on how imposter syndrome, lack of mentorship, and cultural expectations influence career progression for many Latinas in these fields. Dr. Valdez also highlights the importance of supporting graduate education and providing resources to combat these challenges, advocating for organizations to create environments where leadership development is accessible to all.

    She dives into the frameworks of authentic leadership and resiliency theory, which have shaped her research and recommendations for positive change. With a strong focus on family dynamics and cultural influences, Dr. Valdez shares how organizations can better support Latinas in their leadership journeys, creating a more inclusive environment for future generations of leaders.

    Tune in for a deep and meaningful conversation on diversity, leadership, and how we can foster greater opportunities for Latinas in business and education.

    Featured Guest

    Dr. Claudia Valdez
    Administrative Services Manager, Cal Baptist University

    I have had an interesting upbringing, being born in Germany and growing up in Southern California. This has instilled in me a love for learning and travel, as I believe that exploring new cultures and ideas is key to personal and professional growth.

    Currently, I work as a higher education professional, where my main focus is creating opportunities for others to develop and succeed. Specifically, I support Academic Affairs within my institution, working closely with faculty, staff, and students. I find great joy in helping others!

    I am passionate about professional development and believe in the power of networking and continuous learning. I regularly attend events outside of my organization, including leadership conferences, women in leadership events, and workshops on various subjects. This allows me to stay up-to-date with industry trends and expand my skill set.

    One of my strengths is my ability to help others recognize the transferable skills they possess. Having transitioned from the retail and banking industry to higher education, I understand the challenges and rewards that come with changing industries. I bring with me over ten years of experience in retail leadership, where I honed skills such as confidentiality, professionalism, mentorship, development, and training.

    In addition to these skills, I have also developed a range of other specialties, including leadership, interpersonal skills, communication, event planning, time management, problem-solving, and customer service. I am always eager to learn new things and take on new challenges.

    I am excited to connect with like-minded individuals and discuss opportunities for collaboration or mentorship. Whether you’re looking for guidance, a sounding board, or simply someone to share ideas with, feel free to reach out. Let’s make a difference together!

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: Chancellor Christian on Advances and Struggles in California’s Community Colleges

    Education Insight: Chancellor Christian on Advances and Struggles in California’s Community Colleges

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 2.

    In this episode of Education Insight, Dr. Sonya Christian, Chancellor of California Community Colleges, shares her expertise on advancing equitable educational attainment in California. Reflecting on both the progress made and the critical barriers that still stand in the way of success, Dr. Christian explores the challenges faced by students and educators across the state. She highlights the importance of cross-sector partnerships between K-12 and post-secondary institutions and how these collaborations are key to driving systemic change and improving student outcomes.

    One of the most promising initiatives discussed is the impact of dual-enrollment programs in the Inland Empire, which are helping to increase college-going rates and providing students with the tools they need for success. Dr. Christian also emphasizes the need to motivate students and families to pursue higher education while advocating for high-wage industries to relocate to the region, supporting both educational attainment and economic mobility.

    Tune in for an insightful conversation about the future of education in California, the innovations necessary to overcome current barriers, and the role of local communities in shaping a more equitable and successful educational landscape.

    Featured Guest

    Dr. Sonya Christian
    Chancellor, California Community Colleges

    Dr. Sonya Christian recently served as the sixth Chancellor of the Kern Community College District (Kern district). A position she’s held since July 2021. Christian began her three-decade career locally within Kern district as a mathematics faculty, a Division Chair, and Dean of Science, Engineering, Allied Health and Math at Bakersfield College. From 2013 to 2021 she served as the 10th President of Bakersfield College – one of the colleges overseen by Kern district.

    Throughout her career Dr. Christian has been committed to advancing work through distributed leadership and collaborative communities of learning, and to promoting the value of equity in student learning, access, success and economic mobility. She says: The only way to scale work is to tap into the talent, ingenuity, dedication, and care of the people that provide the power to transform. The alignment of distributed forces stems from shared ownership that is almost always more fundamental than the details of the solution, not least because it builds a sense of community that creates long-term sustainability.

    Her dedication to student success with equity led her to statewide and national leadership roles where she advocated for the cost benefits of adopting a Guided Pathways model. Christian spearheaded the statewide coalition in 2015 that led to securing philanthropic funding for the 20-college Guided Pathways demonstration project in California, leading to a $150M state investment in Guided Pathways and ultimately to the Vision for Success metrics adopted by the Board of Governors in 2017. Christian advanced the framework of Guided Pathways through the newsletter Trailblazers from 2016 to 2020, creating a fundamental base of information for scaling the work statewide. Her work in student success with equity also extends to her leadership in developing and implementing the Early College Program.

    Under her leadership, Bakersfield College became one of the first community colleges in California to offer a baccalaureate degree as part of a pilot program announced in 2015. She believes that the community college baccalaureate degree program is a vital tool for growing economic and social mobility of disinvested communities, and continues to fiercely advocate for ways to create more 4-Year Community College degrees in California and across the nation.

    Dr. Christian’s repeated call to Dare Mighty Things – inspired by NASA’s Perseverance Mars lander – reflects a sense of urgency in her work on energy and climate resilience and emerging energies like carbon capture. Under her leadership, Kern district established the California Renewable Energy Laboratory, an innovative coalition of public and private partners seeking to create a secure and stable energy future.

    She is a fierce advocate for the life-changing ability of community colleges to reach underserved populations and educate the future workforce. Her vision that community colleges can transform rural communities and her involvement with the Kern Coalition is increasing collaborations between educational institutions and the communities they serve.

    Dr. Christian is a firm believer in using data and civil dialogue to guide public policy and resource allocation and in leveraging opportunities that prepare students for careers in emerging technologies, particularly in the energy and climate industries where community colleges have become the perfect partner in creating green jobs. She believes that facts and results should drive decision making, ensuring that initiatives will lead to sustainable systemic change.

    She is a strong voice for women’s equality in education and currently serves as chair of the California Community College Women’s Caucus. She is also Vice Chair of the Campaign for College Opportunity Board of Directors and is a member of the California Community Colleges Asian American Pacific Islander Trustees and Administrators caucus.

    Governor Gavin Newsom recognized her statewide leadership when he appointed her to the Student Centered Funding Formula Oversight Committee, where she served from 2019-2022. Her dedication to institutional quality is evidenced in her work with the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, where she served as chair for two years starting in 2020, having previously served for the commission as Vice-Chair from 2018-2020.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: Advancing Latino Student Success with Excelencia in Education

    Education Insight: Advancing Latino Student Success with Excelencia in Education

    About This Episode

    Season 4. Episode 16.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we speak with Matt Cuozzo, Chief of Staff for Excelencia in Education, a national organization focused on advancing equity in higher education. Matt shares insights into Excelencia’s mission, which highlights and supports programs that improve Latino college enrollment, retention, and graduation rates.

    We also discuss the significant recognition that UC Riverside and Cal State San Bernardino received this year, earning the Seal of Excelencia. Matt explains what this prestigious award represents and what impressed the reviewers about these local universities. Learn about the criteria Excelencia uses to assess Latino diversity in higher education institutions, the impact of these recognitions, and how communities benefit when colleges excel in supporting Latino students. Additionally, Matt shares how Excelencia is contributing to broader diversity and inclusion efforts across higher education.

    Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Excelencia’s work and how it’s shaping the future of Latino student success nationwide.

    Featured Guest

    Matt Cuozzo
    Chief of Staff, Excelencia in Education

    Matt Cuozzo serves as chief of staff for Excelencia in Education. In this role, he acts as a core liaison to support strategic implementation across the organization, provides oversight for several strategic partnerships, and intentionally engages with affiliates and partners to meet Excelencia’s mission of accelerating Latino student success in higher education. Matt began his career as a college success program coach serving low-income and first-generation students. This led him to pursue a graduate degree in higher education, where he studied the systemic barriers and opportunities for equity in higher education. During that time, he interned for Excelencia, contributing to the organization’s work on college completion through a Latino lens. Most recently, he worked at a community college implementing models of academic support, peer mentorship, engagement, and personal growth for 650+ students yearly, both dual enrollment high school students and college scholarship recipients.

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: How Athletics Are Enhancing Student Success in the Inland Empire

    Education Insight: How Athletics Are Enhancing Student Success in the Inland Empire

    About This Episode

    Season 4. Episode 15.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we dive into the crucial role athletics plays in shaping the academic success of high school students in the Inland Empire. The Commissioner of Athletics for the CIF Southern Section shares insights into how the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) has evolved over the years to prioritize both academic and athletic excellence for student-athletes.

    From the changes in GPA requirements to the emphasis on “building the whole athlete,” this episode highlights how CIF has played a significant role in transforming the academic landscape for high school athletes. The conversation explores the ways in which coaches, schools, and communities collaborate to support students in balancing the demands of academics and athletics.

    We also discuss the positive impact of academic support programs, how student-athletes are being recognized for their achievements both on and off the field, and how these efforts contribute to their success in college admissions and beyond. Join us for an in-depth look at how regional high school athletes are excelling academically, and how the increased focus on mental health and wellness is further supporting their success. This episode offers valuable insights into how high school sports are helping students thrive in both their academic and athletic pursuits.

    Featured Guest

    Mike West
    Commissioner of Athletics, CIF Southern Section

    Mike West began his career in education as an Athletic Trainer at Ayala High School in 1994. He earned his teaching credential and taught World History, PE, and ROP Sports Medicine a few years after. In 2000, he was hired to open Chino Hills High School as its first Athletic Director. In 2007, he became an administrator in the Jurupa Unified School District serving as Assistant Principal at Patriot High School, Principal at The Learning Center, and Principal at Jurupa Valley High School. He became the Principal at Martin Luther King High School in the Riverside Unified School District in the fall of 2015. In 2023, West was hired and currently serves as the Commissioner of Athletics for the CIF Southern Section.

    West is a Past President of the California Athletic Trainers Association and currently serves as a member of the State CIF Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. He lives in Riverside along with his wife Rhonda and has three children, Kevin, Brian, and Michelle.

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.