Growing Inland Achievement

Author: Growing Inland Achievement

  • Education Insight: Rethinking the Role of Testing in K-12 Education

    Education Insight: Rethinking the Role of Testing in K-12 Education

    About This Episode

    Season 4. Episode 4.

    In the latest episode of Education Insight, we delve into the challenges and complexities of K-12 testing, a critical topic that continues to shape educational practices and policies. Traditional standardized testing has faced criticism for potential biases and the stress it imposes on students, often detracting from valuable classroom time. Our guest discusses these issues and explores how current testing methods can sometimes lead to unfair outcomes, particularly in under-resourced communities.

    The episode highlights innovative approaches to rethinking K-12 assessments. Instead of relying on one-size-fits-all models, educators are increasingly developing dynamic and equitable testing methods that provide more meaningful data and better support student learning. By aligning assessments with classroom instruction and considering the diverse needs of all students, these new methods aim to make testing not just a tool for measurement, but an integral part of the learning process.

    Our guest also shares stories of how these innovative approaches have made a significant impact in schools, particularly in communities that have been historically underserved. These stories emphasize the importance of challenging traditional testing models and seeking out new ways to create a more equitable and effective education system. Tune in to Education Insight to learn more about how we can transform K-12 testing to better support all students.

    Featured Guest

    Michelle Odemwingie

    Chief Executive Officer, Achievement Network

    Michelle Odemwingie is the chief executive officer at Achievement Network. Michelle joined ANet nearly a decade ago as a coach and has since held roles as chief of school and system services and chief of staff, among others. This includes spearheading ANet’s Breakthrough Results Fund in partnership with five school districts across the country. Through her work at ANet and in her local community, Michelle maintains a deep personal commitment to educational equity and ensuring all students are able to learn and thrive. Prior to joining ANet, she spearheaded the ThinkMath team in California and DC, supporting instructional leaders around math enrichment and intervention programs, as well as supporting secondary math teachers through TNTP and Teach for America. Michelle began her career as an educator teaching math in the District of Columbia and is a graduate of Stanford University. In her free time, Michelle enjoys applying continuous improvement to her cooking, especially pasta dishes.

    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: The Great Success of Continuation High Schools

    Education Insight: The Great Success of Continuation High Schools

    About This Episode

    Season 4. Episode 3.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we explore the remarkable success of California’s continuation high schools, focusing on Orangewood High School in Redlands.

    Lacey Kendall interviews Principal Carli Norris, who shares her experiences leading the school and sheds light on continuing schools’ critical role in helping students get back on track. They discuss the key differences between alternative schools, the challenges and rewards of working in continuation education, and the impressive results revealed in a recent decade-long Stanford University study. Tune in to discover why California’s continuation schools are earning high marks and how they are making a lasting impact on students’ lives.

    Featured Guest

    Carli Norris

    Principal, Orangewood Continuation High School

    My leadership style is characterized by my commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive school culture through effective communication and strong community relationships. In leading by example, I emphasize personalized learning and innovative instructional strategies to meet diverse student needs while championing professional development for my staff. With over nine years of impactful leadership, my continued focus as a high school leader is to always do what is best for students. This passion for student success is what led me to an alternative education setting. My career has been marked by the strategic implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), which has significantly enhanced academic performance and behavioral outcomes for my students.  My dedication to creating equitable learning environments ensures that each student has the support and resources necessary to achieve their highest potential.

    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.

  • Share Your Story: We Want to Feature You in Our Video

    Share Your Story: We Want to Feature You in Our Video

    Inland Empire College Students,

    We want you to be part of something special! We’re launching a project about sharing your story—because your experiences, challenges, and wins matter. We believe your voice is key to shaping the future of college life in the Inland Empire. Through your stories, we’re aiming to show the world what it’s really like to be a student here, highlighting the unique perspectives that make our community so special.

    What’s the Campaign About?

    We’re asking you to create three (3) short videos answering this simple question: “What is something you wish your campus leaders knew about your story?”

    Everyone who submits a video will be automatically entered to win one of twenty (20) $50.00 Amazon gift cards just for participating. Plus, one (1) student whose submission stands out from all the rest will be invited to have their story featured as a highlight in our upcoming documentary and receive a $500 award.

    Your Story Matters

    We invite you to share your voice in your own tone and style. We want you to feel comfortable and empowered to speak about the issues and experiences that matter most to you. Your story is powerful, and by sharing it, we can hear your stories and help shape the future of education in our region.

    Video Ideas to Get You Started

    We want to hear what really matters to you! Share as many clips as you want; feel free to speak from the heart.

    Be authentic and talk about the issues that you experience.

    We want to hear about both:

    1. Challenges You Face: Things that make it challenging for you to attend and/or succeed in college in the Inland Empire.

    2. How You Succeed: Things that help you meet those challenges, enroll, stay in college, and succeed in your goals.

    If you’re looking for inspiration, think about how these topics below may have impacted your life and education experiences:

    Start your clip by saying: “I wish my campus leaders knew…” 

    1. Advisors Who Get It.  I wish my campus leaders knew… how much it means to have an advisor who understands what it’s like to be the first in my family to go to college. My advisor has been there for me, helping me figure out everything from class schedules to dealing with stress.
    1. Digital Learning: A Lifesaver. I wish my campus leaders knew… how online resources have been a game-changer for me. With two jobs and a busy schedule, being able to access study materials online makes a huge difference in keeping up with my classes.
    1. Balancing Work and School. I wish my campus leaders knew… how hard it is to juggle school and work to pay for college. Financial aid has been the only way I can afford to be here, but it’s still tough balancing everything.
    1. When Our Voices Matter. I wish my campus leaders knew… that when students give feedback, it’s because we really want to see changes that help us succeed. It makes a big difference when our voices are heard, and things actually improve.
    1. Finding My People. I wish my campus leaders knew… how much student groups have helped me feel connected on campus. Being involved in a club where people understand what it’s like to work two jobs while going to school has been a lifesaver.
    1. Getting Help When You Need It. I wish my campus leaders knew… how hard it is to keep up with school when English isn’t my first language. Having more support for students like me would help a lot, especially when it comes to understanding assignments and getting extra help.
    1. Being Understood Matters. I wish my campus leaders knew… how important it is for students to feel understood. When someone on campus takes the time to listen and really gets what we’re going through, it makes a huge difference in how supported we feel.
    1. Pushing Through the Struggles. I wish my campus leaders knew… the struggles I’ve been through just to stay in school. From working long hours to dealing with family pressures, it’s been tough, but I’m determined to get my degree and make my family proud.

    Feel free to share as many clips as you want—every story counts, and we want to hear yours!

    Ready to Share Your Story?

    Start recording and let your voice be heard. We can’t wait to see the incredible stories you’ll share!

    Here is some guidance for recording the highest quality video possible: Recording Tips & Advice

    How to Participate

    Option 1 – Post to Social Media

    • Platform: Post your video on your Instagram or TikTok.
    • Hashtag: Use #IEStudentVoices in your post.
    • Tag: Be sure to tag @giatogether in your video.
    • Privacy settings: Please make sure your profile and posts are set to public (if not consider option 2).

    Option 2 – Upload your Video

    • Film Your Video: Use your phone to film a selfie-style social media clip or clips.
    • Name Your Video: If possible, save your video file name as your First_Last name. If submitting multiple videos add an A,B,C at the end.
    • Upload your Videos: Go to this link: https://mega.nz/filerequest/On6u6a4ndvE and upload your video.
    • Let Us Know: Send an email to letting us know you uploaded your video.

    Submission deadline: September 30, 2024

    What Will Happen With The Videos? 

    We’ll use them in our upcoming video/documentary, which will feature the unique challenges and solutions for college and university students in the Inland Empire.

    Why Participate?

    We’re inviting you to be part of something special—a video project that’s all about sharing the real, diverse voices of students in the Inland Empire.

    By participating, you’ll:

    • Get Cast: We’re looking for videos to share in an upcoming documentary project and people to follow for our more in-depth documentary film.
    • Be Heard: This is your chance to share your story and show what student life is really like in our region.
    • Make a Difference: Your voice can help shine a light on the need for equity and accessibility in education, sparking real change.
    • Connect: Your experiences will resonate with other students and could inspire education leaders to take action.
    • Join the Movement: Engage with a community that’s all about pushing for positive changes in education.

    Your story matters. By taking part, you’ll contribute to an important conversation and help make a difference for students like you!

    Disclaimer:

    By uploading your video or posting it on social media using our suggested hashtags, you agree to share your video with us and give us permission to use it in our upcoming documentary film project. This includes the right to edit, distribute, and publicly display your video as part of the film and in related promotional materials. By participating, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to these terms.

    If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us before submitting your video.

    Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) serves the Inland Empire region of Southern California—the 12th largest metropolitan statistical area in the U.S., including over 4.7 million residents and over one million students. GIA supports a regional cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit, and business partners, collectively working to achieve a shared vision of educational and economic success. GIA’s shared vision is that by 2035, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties will be widely recognized for their educated workforce, thriving communities, and vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all.

  • Nominate a Local Leader for the 2024 Toward a Shared Vision Awards! 

    Nominate a Local Leader for the 2024 Toward a Shared Vision Awards! 

    We encourage you to recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals or groups who have significantly impacted regional education and student success. The 2024 Toward a Shared Vision Awards will honor leaders in the following categories: 

    • Transformation 
    • Innovation 
    • Collaboration 
    • Student-centered 
    • Equity-focused 

    Awardees will be celebrated during a special dinner and awards ceremony on the evening of October 8th, featuring remarks from special guest, Sonya Christian, Chancellor of California Community Colleges. 

    Submit your nomination here: Nominate Now. The nomination form closes at 11:59 PM on Friday, August 16.

    For inspiration, you can learn more about last year’s winners here.

  • San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Awards $60,000 to Growing Inland Achievement to Support Student Success in the Inland Empire

    San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Awards $60,000 to Growing Inland Achievement to Support Student Success in the Inland Empire

    Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) has been awarded a $60,000 grant from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians,  generated through the Tribe’s annual Charity Golf Tournament. This grant will support GIA’s mission to increase equitable educational attainment and economic success in the Inland Empire.

    The funds will enable GIA to enhance its outreach initiatives, including college financial aid and financial literacy training programs for students and families and support for adult learners over 25 seeking to return to college to earn a certificate or degree.

    “We are deeply grateful to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians for their generous support,” said Ashish Vaidya, President and CEO of Growing Inland Achievement. “This funding will significantly advance our mission, helping us provide crucial resources and support to students and families in the Inland Empire.”

    The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians’ annual golf tournament, held this year from July 25-28, has a long-standing tradition of supporting various charities nationwide. The tournament embodies the Serrano concept of Yawa— “to act on one’s belief”—and has raised over $3.5 million for over 70 charities over its 25-year history.

    San Manuel has donated nearly $400 million to causes in the Inland Empire and across Indian Country. Supporting nonprofit organizations is part of the Tribe’s commitment to unity and stewardship. For more information on San Manuel Cares Program, please visit www.sanmanuelcares.org.

    About Growing Inland Achievement

    Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) serves the Inland Empire region of Southern California—the 12th largest metropolitan statistical area in the U.S., including over 4.7 million residents and over one million students. GIA supports a regional cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit, and business partners, collectively working to achieve a shared vision of educational and economic success. GIA’s shared vision is that by 2035, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties will be widely recognized for their educated workforce, thriving communities, and vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all.

    About the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

    The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is a federally recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. San Manuel exercises its inherent sovereign right of self-governance and provides essential services for its citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services, and promoting social, economic, and cultural development. As the Indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains, and high deserts, the Serrano people of San Manuel have called this area home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region. For more information, visit www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov.