University City High School ranks in top 100
Congratulations to UCHS for being ranked in the Top 100 high schools in California by Niche, which ranks public high schools based on statistics and feedback from students and parents. UCHS was also the top-ranked high school in the San Diego Unified School District, and was particularly noted for its STEM curriculum, quality of teachers and diversity of student population. When asked about the honor, principal Jeff Olivero said: “Being recognized as the top high school (over La Jolla, Scripps Ranch, and Patrick Henry) in our district says a lot about growth the school has made over the last series of years. The school has strived to expand the rigor and access to AP and community college courses for students. “This is in addition to expanding its career pathway programs. Extracurricular interest from students is at an all-time high. UCHS has always been a quality school. But what I think has even gotten better is the overall positive school culture. Students, staff, and parents at UCHS have grown to have a deep appreciation for their school. All are contributing and recognizing the efforts being made to make UCHS the best possible place to learn, work, and have fun.” Well done, UCHS!
Sip & bid with Spreckels
The Spreckels Elementary Sip & Bid fundraiser will be held on Saturday, March 4, 6 to10 p.m. at the Bay City Brewing Company, located at 3760 Hancock St. There will be a silent auction, raffles prizes (including a UTC birthday party package, Nordstrom and Apple Store gift cards), teacher auction, and food trucks. Advance tickets are $25 for one admissionand two refreshment drinks, or $50 for a fun pack for two, which includes admission for two, two refreshment drinks and two raffle tickets. You may also sponsor a teacher or staff member for $25. The celebration is meant to honor the Spreckels parents and volunteers, past and present. For information and to order tickets, visit : www.spreckelscommunityuc.com.
Standley Middle School leads energy troopers program
Standley Middle School PTSA won $500 and received recognition for being the leading school in promoting the Energy Troopers energy saving program at the Family Climate Action Summit on Feb. 9. The summit was hosted by San Diego Unified School District, San Diego Unified Council of PTAs and the Sierra Club. Standley PTSA president, Claire Shaughnessy, attended on behalf of the PTSA to receive the big check from Energy Troopers. All local families are encouraged to participate in this energy conservation program. Every person who enrolls gives the school more money to run programs like the career fair, prep day, teacher and club grants, the legacy tile project, and much more. Energy Troopers encourages people to cut back on energy use during certain peak periods, reducing carbon emissions by promoting energy efficiency. With Energy Troopers, Standley competes against other schools to see who can have the most enrollments and maximum energy savings. The program is open to everyone in the community. For more information, visit www.energytroopers.org. Neighborhood artworks
University City continues to add to the colorful ambiance of the neighborhood with another completed transformer art project. The newest addition was created by Andrew Sanchez of AlphaGraphics on Governor Drive, who used the neighborhood banner designs as inspiration. The wraparound design adds to the sense of community pride and an appreciation for public art. The project was funded by the County of San Diego through a Community Enhancement Program grant and coordinated by the University City Community Association Beautification Committee.
Little leaguers play ball
It’s officially baseball season! Join University City Little League’s kick off with opening day on Saturday, March 4 at Standley Park, starting at 9 a.m. Opening day ceremonies start with the team/player parade led by the Standley Middle Marching Band and continue with the first pitch, announcements of the 2016 all-stars, and the exciting T-ball Otter Pop Run. The snack bar will be open all day. Games start at 11 a.m. and it is free and fun for all. Special guests this year will be the Padres Pad Squad.
Good Deeds
UCLL opening day also is the annual baseball equipment exchange. Please bring any used gloves, bats, baseballs or other baseball equipment to exchange or donate. Any equipment left over will be distributed locally and abroad through Kids Gear for Baseball (www.kidsgearforbaseball.org). Tables and donation bins will be located near the snack bar (near the pool). For more information, visit www.ucll.org.
