Mission Bay High – Congratulations to MBHS musicians who performed at Music in the Parks at Disneyland on Sunday, June 3. Led by music director Jean-Paul Balmat, the Swing Choir took first place in vocal jazz, Full Orchestra took home first in their category, and Concert Band was second in the high school division. Freshman Connor Gilbert won best accompanist performing with Swing Choir. Pacific Beach Middle – PBMS physical education teacher Dennis (Coach G) Gildehaus was recognized as the 2018 Secondary Physical Education Teacher of the Year, by the California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Gildehaus is a leader in his profession, teaching students and developing professionally. He has played a key role in the development of the Fit 2 Learn Fit 4 Life website, regularly implements technology in physical education, and helps coordinate the California Middle School Physical Education Workshop.  Barnard Mandarin Magnet Elementary – Barnard Mandarin Magnet Elementary School held its first International Night on June 1. The school’s auditorium was filled with students and their families eager to taste culinary delights from more than 20 countries, including Poland, England, Greece, Germany, Mexico, Philippines, Russia, Ireland, and, of course, China. There were also cultural performances on the stage. Highlights included Russian and Flamenco dancing, tae kwon do, and a folk song about the Hebrew alphabet. Many attendees wore their family’s national dress. For some, this meant wearing clothing that showcased more than one culture, hinting at the diversity found within the families themselves. Kate Sessions Elementary – The fifth graders at Sessions have been having a blast participating in all their end-of-year activities that they have earned this school year. They visited JA Biztown and found out what it takes to run a business, they went to Skateworld, had a fifth grade dance, a beach party, pizza party, picnic at Kate Sessions Park, capture the flag field day with coach Josh and played kickball against the teachers. They all worked really hard this year to prepare themselves to be successful middle school students and successful citizens.