{"id":1142,"date":"2019-08-20T04:56:17","date_gmt":"2019-08-20T04:56:17","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/?page_id=1142"},"modified":"2026-04-15T15:13:03","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T22:13:03","slug":"about","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/about\/","title":{"rendered":"Our School"},"content":{"rendered":"

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”header” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”100deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”#c60000 50%|rgba(255,255,255,0) 80%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”#c60000″ background_color_gradient_start_position=”50%” background_color_gradient_end=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” background_color_gradient_end_position=”80%” background_image=”\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/83\/2019\/10\/imperial_headers_ourschool.png” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_right” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” background_layout=”dark” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Our School<\/h1>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” module_id=”principal” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”rgba(255,255,255,0.49)” background_image=”https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/83\/2021\/12\/2022-new-parchment-bkg.jpg” background_blend=”lighten” custom_padding=”0|0px|20px|0px|false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”16px|0px|0|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Meet Our Principal<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/83\/2023\/07\/23-24_Ms-Calvo-Principal-250×300-1.jpg” alt=”Ms Calvo” title_text=”23-24_Ms-Calvo-Principal-250×300″ align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||2rem||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Ms. Caridad Calvo<\/h3>\n

At John Garcia Jr. Elementary, we believe in educating the whole child in a safe and nurturing environment. Our staff is committed to developing our students as 21st-Century learners by teaching students to collaborate, communicate, think critically, promote creativity, and be citizens of good character.<\/p>\n

I am privileged to work with such an amazing staff, and some of the best students and families in Downey! We are a district that believes Our Kids Deserve the BEST! I truly believe the more we work together, the better the educational experience for everyone involved!<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” module_id=”mission” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#ffffff” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”20px||34px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Our Mission<\/h2>\n

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At John Garcia Jr. Elementary, we are \u201ceducating children for a productive life in the 21st Century.\u201d<\/strong> Imperial Elementary School provides challenging academics with a common core curriculum on a supportive and caring campus. Imperial staff, in partnership with parents and the community, strives to help children reach their full academic potential and develop as a person of good character. We are committed to providing a safe and structured environment to better assist all students in developing responsibility for their own behavior and learning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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Our Vision<\/h2>\n

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All students graduate with a 21st Century education that ensures they are college and career ready, globally competitive, and citizens of strong character.<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/83\/2023\/07\/imperial_mission_photo-510×483-1.jpg” alt=”children working together” title_text=”imperial_mission_photo-510×483″ _builder_version=”4.21.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” module_id=”name” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#F4F4F4″ custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”20px||34px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_padding=”0|0px|0|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

About Our Name: Honoring Dr. John A. Garcia Jr.<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/83\/2025\/08\/Garcia-Elementary-Headshot-600×750-1.jpg” alt=”Dr. Garcia Junior” title_text=”Garcia-Elementary-Headshot-600×750″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||2rem||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]In the summer of 2025, Imperial Elementary School was renamed John A. Garcia Jr. Elementary School to honor the lasting impact of retiring Superintendent Dr. John A. Garcia Jr. A proud Downey native and graduate of Downey Unified schools, Dr. Garcia returned to lead the district in 2013 after decades of service in public education.<\/p>\n

Throughout his 12+ years of leadership, he championed major strides in academic achievement, campus upgrades, and student support\u2014always guided by his belief that \u201cour kids deserve the best.\u201d Renaming the school in his honor is a tribute to his dedication, vision, and heart for the Downey community. Today, the name serves as a daily reminder of the legacy he leaves behind and the bright future he helped create for generations to come.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

School & Home Compact for Achievement<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

What is a School-Home Compact?<\/h3>\n

A School-Home Compact for Achievement is an agreement that parents, students, and teachers develop together. It explains how parents and teachers will work together to make sure all our students reach grade level standards.<\/p>\n

Effective compacts:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Link to goals of the school improvement plan.<\/li>\n
  • Focus on student learning skills.<\/li>\n
  • Describe how teachers will help students develop those skills using high quality instruction.<\/li>\n
  • Share strategies parents can use at home.<\/li>\n
  • Explain how teachers and parents will communicate with regard to student progress.<\/li>\n
  • Describe opportunities for parents to volunteer, observe, and participate in the classroom.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title=”Jointly Developed” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ title_font=”|700|||||||” title_font_size=”16px” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    The parents and staff of Garcia Elementary School developed this School-Parent Compact for Achievement. Meetings are held on a yearly basis to review the Compact and make changes based on student needs. Parents are welcome to contribute at any time. If you would like to volunteer, participate, or observe in the classroom, please contact the school.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Building Partnerships” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ title_font=”|700|||||||” title_font_size=”16px” custom_margin=”||1rem||false|false” custom_padding=”||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Your support and input are valued and instrumental in helping our students succeed! Opportunities for involvement include:<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Back-to-School\/Parent Night<\/li>\n
    • PTA Meetings<\/li>\n
    • Parent Workshops<\/li>\n
    • Open House<\/li>\n
    • School Site Council Meetings<\/li>\n
    • Title I and English Learner Advisory Council<\/li>\n
    • Awards Assemblies<\/li>\n
    • District Sponsored events<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      [\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/alameda\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2024\/10\/DUSD-Vertical-Logo500x476.png” alt=”DUSD logo” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100px” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||0.5rem||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||1rem||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

      District Goal<\/h3>\n

      By June 2027, 90-100% of all students will perform at grade level or higher and upon graduation meet the requirements for entrance into the UC and CSU system or have developed skills to be career ready.<\/p>\n

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      School Goals<\/h3>\n

      By June 2027, we will continue to increase the number of students reaching proficiency in mathematics and reading.<\/p>\n

      [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title=”Our focus in language arts will be:” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ title_font=”|700|||||||” title_font_size=”16px” custom_padding=”||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

        \n
      • Develop life-long reading and comprehension strategies, which will meet our critical reading focus and increase proficiency in the iReady Diagnostic.<\/li>\n
      • Encourage and foster students’ interest in reading using a variety of fictional literature and nonfiction texts.<\/li>\n
      • Assist students in reaching Tier 1 as measured by the
        \niReady Diagnostic.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Our focus in mathematics will be to:” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ title_font=”|700|||||||” title_font_size=”16px” custom_padding=”||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

          \n
        • Integrate technology to enrich day to day learning, intervention, and authentic assessment.<\/li>\n
        • Have students explain their mathematical reasoning that supports their problem solving strategy.<\/li>\n
        • Assist students in reaching Tier 1 as measured by the
          iReady Diagnostic.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Our technology focus will be:” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ title_font=”|700|||||||” title_font_size=”16px” custom_padding=”||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

            \n
          • To provide daily learning opportunities in which students utilize iPads for creation, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication.<\/li>\n
          • To guide and encourage students to demonstrate their knowledge, learning, and creativity in multiple ways.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            [\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||1rem||false|false” custom_css_main_element=”align-items:center;” border_radii=”on|6px|6px|6px|6px” border_width_all=”1px” border_color_all=”#0061AF” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_icon font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_width=”75px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_icon][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

            At School<\/h3>\n

            The Garcia staff will work with students and their families to support students’ success in reading and math. Some of our key connections with families will be:<\/p>\n

              \n
            • Communicate regularly with parents regarding current academic programs and be accessible to parents\/guardians to discuss questions and\/or concerns.<\/li>\n
            • Provide materials and information to help parents support the school’s academic program.<\/li>\n
            • Offer Family Workshops:
              Parent\/Guardian Support<\/strong> – Offer strategies and resources needed to help their children achieve success in all curricular areas.
              Family Fun<\/strong> – Offer hands-on learning experiences outside the school<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                <\/ul>\n

                [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||1rem||false|false” custom_css_main_element=”align-items:center;” border_radii=”on|6px|6px|6px|6px” border_width_all=”1px” border_color_all=”#0061AF” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_icon font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_width=”75px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_icon][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

                At Home<\/h3>\n

                Garcia Elementary School staff, in collaboration with parents, will develop ideas about how families can support students’ success in reading and math:<\/p>\n

                  \n
                • Discuss and review schoolwork nightly and contact the teacher with questions or concerns. Make appointments as needed, especially after the first progress report.<\/li>\n
                • Read and use the classroom materials and information to support learning at home.<\/li>\n
                • Read with or listen to my child read every day. Attend the family literacy workshops and use the strategies learned to improve my child\u2019s literacy skills.<\/li>\n
                • Involve my child in solving real-world math problems every day. Attend family math workshop and use strategies learned to improve my child\u2019s mathematic skills.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_css_main_element=”align-items:center;” border_radii=”on|6px|6px|6px|6px” border_width_all=”1px” border_color_all=”#0061AF” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_icon font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_width=”75px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_icon][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

                  Student Responsibilities<\/h3>\n

                  Garcia Elementary School students know the importance of being responsible. A responsible student will come to school every day on time, prepared, and ready to learn. To make connections between learning at home and at school, students will:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                    \n
                  • Take home, review, and discuss schoolwork and materials nightly with parents\/guardians.<\/li>\n
                  • Ask for help when they have trouble with their schoolwork.<\/li>\n
                  • Participate in classroom discussions and group work.<\/li>\n
                  • Read to and discuss the text with an adult for 20-30 minutes every day.<\/li>\n
                  • Use strategies learned in class to solve real-world math problems.<\/li>\n
                  • Update iPad Regularly and come to school with it fully charged.<\/li>\n
                  • Complete\u00a0 i-Ready lessons in BOTH math and reading weekly.<\/li>\n
                  • Exemplify and model the Six Pillars of Character, everywhere and all the time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_id=”pip” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

                    Engagement Policy<\/h2>\n

                    [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Garcia Elementary recognizes that parents\/guardians are the first and most important influence in their children’s educational development. We firmly believe that parental engagement is critical for enhancing student achievement and fostering positive behavior. This Parent and Family Engagement Policy shall be an integral piece of the school plan that promotes a meaningful home-school partnership.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_toggle title=”Part 1: General Expectations” open_toggle_text_color=”#0061AF” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#0061AF” title_level=”h3″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” custom_margin=”||1rem||false|false” custom_padding=”||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

                    Garcia Elementary School agrees to implement the following requirements:<\/p>\n

                      \n
                    • The school will jointly develop with parents, distribute to parents of Title I children, a School Parental Engagement Policy that the school and parents of participating children agree to uphold.<\/li>\n
                    • The school will notify parents about the School Parent and Family Engagement Policy in an understandable and uniform format and, to the extent practicable, will distribute this policy to parents in English and Spanish.<\/li>\n
                    • The school will revisit the School Parental Engagement Policy yearly to meet the changing needs of parents and the school.<\/li>\n
                    • The school will make the School Parental Engagement Policy available to the local community through a web site link.<\/li>\n
                    • The school will adopt the Home-School compact as a component of its Parent and Family Engagement Policy<\/li>\n
                    • The school will provide accessibility and opportunities for parents with limited English proficiency, parents with disabilities, and parents of migratory students.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                      The school agrees to be governed by the following definition of parental engagement, and will carry out programs, activities and procedures in accordance with this definition:<\/p>\n

                      Parental engagement means the participation of parents, including those with disabilities and\/or with limited English proficiency, in regular and meaningful communication involving student academic learning and other school activities, including ensuring \u2013<\/p>\n

                        \n
                      • that parents play an integral role in assisting their child\u2019s learning;<\/li>\n
                      • that parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their child\u2019s education;<\/li>\n
                      • that parents are full partners in their child\u2019s education and are included, as appropriate, in decision-making and on advisory committees to assist in the education of their child;<\/li>\n
                      • the carrying out of other activities, such as those described in section 1118 of the ESEA.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                        [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Part 2: Policy Implementation” open_toggle_text_color=”#0061AF” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#0061AF” title_level=”h3″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” custom_margin=”||1rem||false|false” custom_padding=”||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

                        Garcia Elementary School will take the following actions to involve parents in the joint development and joint agreement of its Engagement Policy and its schoolwide plan, if applicable, in an organized, ongoing, and timely way under section 1118(b) of the ESEA:<\/p>\n

                          \n
                        • Title I Parent Team Meetings will be held to create, review, and improve the Engagement
                          Policy and the Home-School Compact yearly.<\/li>\n
                        • Parents will have the opportunity to discuss and share ways to improve the Title 1 Program.<\/li>\n
                        • Parents will have the opportunity to complete a survey about our Title 1 Program each year.<\/li>\n
                        • Parents will be provided, if they request an appointment for regular meetings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                          Garcia Elementary School will take the following actions to distribute to parents of children participating and the local community, the Engagement Policy:<\/p>\n

                            \n
                          • The hard copy of the school\u2019s Parent and Family Engagement Policy will be available to any
                            parent when requested.<\/li>\n
                          • The Engagement Policy will be posted on our official School web site for the community to view.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                            Garcia Elementary School will review yearly and update periodically its Engagement Policy to meet the changing needs of parents and the school:<\/p>\n

                              \n
                            • A team meeting will be held yearly to review and\/or update the Engagement Policy. The Fall Information Meeting will review the Williams Uniform Complaint Procedure<\/li>\n
                            • Fall meeting with survey regarding dates times and topics.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                              Garcia Elementary School will convene an annual meeting to inform parents of the following:<\/p>\n

                                \n
                              • That their child\u2019s school participates in Title I,<\/li>\n
                              • About the requirements of Title I<\/li>\n
                              • Of their rights to be involved in:<\/li>\n
                              • Parent and Family Engagement<\/li>\n
                              • Policy Home-School Compact<\/li>\n
                              • Williams Uniform Complaint Procedure<\/li>\n
                              • About their school\u2019s participation in Title I<\/li>\n
                              • Invitations emailed home in English & Spanish and posted on social media<\/li>\n
                              • Dialer callers in English and Spanish and at convenient times for parents<\/li>\n
                              • Parents are encouraged to attend parent functions, through various incentives<\/li>\n
                              • Parents are encouraged to take the LCAP survey yearly, to voice their opinions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                Garcia Elementary School will hold a flexible number of meetings at varying times:<\/p>\n

                                  \n
                                • Invitations will be sent in English and Spanish, with plenty of notice using multiple methods of contact.<\/li>\n
                                • Childcare may be provided by trained volunteers.<\/li>\n
                                • Spanish translation will be provided at parent functions as needed.<\/li>\n
                                • Parent surveys will be given to determine parent interest needs.<\/li>\n
                                • Garcia Elementary School will provide information about Title I programs to parents of participating children in a timely manner:<\/li>\n
                                • A Fall meeting will be held.<\/li>\n
                                • Written notification will be sent home with all Title I students, explaining the program<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                  Garcia Elementary School will provide to parents of Title I students a description and explanation of the curriculum being used, the forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress, and the proficiency levels students are expected to meet:<\/p>\n

                                    \n
                                  • A letter will be sent home with all Title I students, explaining the curriculum, assessments being used, and what level is expected of them.<\/li>\n
                                  • This will also be discussed at the Informational Meetings.<\/li>\n
                                  • Garcia Elementary School will provide parents of Title I students opportunities to formulate suggestions and to participate, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their children:<\/li>\n
                                  • Informational meetings<\/li>\n
                                  • SSC \u2013 School Site Council<\/li>\n
                                  • PTA Meetings<\/li>\n
                                  • Annual Title I Meeting<\/li>\n
                                  • District LCAP Survey<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                    [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Part 3: Shared Responsibilities for High Achievement” open_toggle_text_color=”#0061AF” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#0061AF” title_level=”h3″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” custom_margin=”||1rem||false|false” custom_padding=”||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

                                    Garcia Elementary School will build the school\u2019s and parents\u2019 capacity for strong parental engagement, in order to ensure effective engagement of parents and to support a partnership
                                    among the school involved, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, through the following activities specifically described below:<\/p>\n

                                      \n
                                    • Needs Assessment Survey taken by parents (conducted by Title I)<\/li>\n
                                    • Parent input through team meetings (conducted by Title I)<\/li>\n
                                    • Parental requests (conducted by Title I)<\/li>\n
                                    • Varied \/ multiple meeting times (conducted by Title I)<\/li>\n
                                    • PTA Meetings (conducted by the PTA board members)<\/li>\n
                                    • Encouragement to attend \u201cBack To School\u201d night and Open House (conducted by the staff and principal)<\/li>\n
                                    • School calendar which is available in Spanish and English<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                      Garcia Elementary School will incorporate the Home-School Compact as a component of its Parent and Family Engagement Policy:<\/p>\n

                                        \n
                                      • Both policies will be reviewed at the meetings held for Title I parents<\/li>\n
                                      • Both policies will be displayed on our school web site<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                        Garcia Elementary School will, with the assistance of its district, provide assistance to parents of children served by the school in understanding topics, such as the following:<\/p>\n

                                          \n
                                        • the State\u2019s academic content standards,<\/li>\n
                                        • the State\u2019s CAASPP proficiency levels<\/li>\n
                                        • the State and local academic assessments including alternate assessments,<\/li>\n
                                        • the requirements of Title I how to monitor their child\u2019s progress, and how to work with educators<\/li>\n
                                        • Results of the annual Title I review – These various topics will be addressed at the Title 1 Informational Meetings and through Parent Education throughout the year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                          Garcia Elementary School will, with the assistance of its district, provide materials to help parents work with their children to improve their children\u2019s academic achievement, through:<\/p>\n

                                            \n
                                          • parent\/family education<\/li>\n
                                          • parent\/family-teacher conferences<\/li>\n
                                          • parent\/family meetings and school functions<\/li>\n
                                          • gathering parental input on desired parent education trainings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                            Garcia Elementary School will build the school\u2019s and parents\u2019 capacity for strong parental engagement, in order to ensure effective engagement of parents and to support a partnership
                                            among the school involved, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, through the following activities specifically described below:<\/p>\n

                                              \n
                                            • Needs Assessment Survey taken by parents (conducted by Title I)<\/li>\n
                                            • Parent input through team meetings (conducted by Title I)<\/li>\n
                                            • Parental requests (conducted by Title I)<\/li>\n
                                            • Varied \/ multiple meeting times (conducted by Title I)<\/li>\n
                                            • PTA Meetings (conducted by the PTA board members)<\/li>\n
                                            • Encouragement to attend \u201cBack To School\u201d night and Open House (conducted by the staff and principal)<\/li>\n
                                            • School calendar which is available in Spanish and English<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                              Garcia Elementary School will incorporate the Home-School Compact as a component of its Parent and Family Engagement Policy:<\/p>\n

                                                \n
                                              • Both policies will be reviewed at the meetings held for Title I parents<\/li>\n
                                              • Both policies will be displayed on our school web site<\/li>\n
                                              • Garcia Elementary School will, with the assistance of its district, provide assistance to parents of children served by the school in understanding topics, such as the following:<\/li>\n
                                              • the State\u2019s academic content standards,<\/li>\n
                                              • the State\u2019s CAASPP proficiency levels<\/li>\n
                                              • the State and local academic assessments including alternate assessments,<\/li>\n
                                              • the requirements of Title I<\/li>\n
                                              • how to monitor their child\u2019s progress, and<\/li>\n
                                              • how to work with educators<\/li>\n
                                              • Results of the annual Title I review – These various topics will be addressed at the Title 1 Informational Meetings and through Parent Education throughout the year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                Garcia Elementary School will, with the assistance of its district, provide materials to help parents work with their children to improve their children\u2019s academic achievement, through:<\/p>\n

                                                  \n
                                                • parent\/family education<\/li>\n
                                                • parent\/family-teacher conferences<\/li>\n
                                                • parent\/family meetings and school functions<\/li>\n
                                                • gathering parental input on desired parent education trainings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                  Garcia Elementary School, with the assistance of its district, shall educate its staff, in how to reach out to, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners through:<\/p>\n

                                                    \n
                                                  • staff meetings<\/li>\n
                                                  • professional development<\/li>\n
                                                  • professional literature<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                    Garcia Elementary School will, to the extent feasible and appropriate, will strive to ensure that information related to the school and parent programs, meetings, and other activities, is sent to the parents of participating children in an understandable and uniform format, including alternative formats upon request, and to the extent practicable, in a language the parents can understand. Parent\/Family invitations
                                                    and information will be translated in Spanish and may be distributed in the following ways:<\/p>\n

                                                      \n
                                                    • Parent Square.<\/li>\n
                                                    • Auto dialer, text, and email.<\/li>\n
                                                    • School social media<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                      [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Part 4: Adoption” open_toggle_text_color=”#0061AF” open_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” closed_toggle_background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” icon_color=”#0061AF” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#0061AF” title_level=”h3″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” custom_margin=”||1rem||false|false” custom_padding=”||0.5rem|0px|false|false” border_width_all=”0px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#444444″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

                                                      This Parent and Family Engagement Policy has been developed jointly with, and agreed on with, parents of children participating in Title I, as evidenced by Susie Joachim, Categorical Resource Teacher.<\/p>\n

                                                      This policy was approved and adopted by Garcia Elementary School\u2018s School Site Council in March, 2025 and will be in effect for the 2025-2026 school year. It will be made available to
                                                      Garcia families and the local community. Notification to parents of this policy will be in an understandable and uniform format and, to the extent practicable, provide a copy of this policy to parents in a language the parents can understand.<\/p>\n

                                                      [\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/alameda\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/35\/2025\/10\/800x500_alameda_1.jpg” alt=”Students in classroom” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                                                      Our SchoolMeet Our PrincipalMs. Caridad Calvo At John Garcia Jr. Elementary, we believe in educating the whole child in a safe and nurturing environment. Our staff is committed to developing our students as 21st-Century learners by teaching students to collaborate, communicate, think critically, promote creativity, and be citizens of good character. I am privileged to […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1142","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\r\nOur School | Garcia<\/title>\r\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\r\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/about\/\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Our School | Garcia\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Our SchoolMeet Our PrincipalMs. Caridad Calvo At John Garcia Jr. Elementary, we believe in educating the whole child in a safe and nurturing environment. Our staff is committed to developing our students as 21st-Century learners by teaching students to collaborate, communicate, think critically, promote creativity, and be citizens of good character. 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