Politics 101: The President, State Superintendent, and a School Bond

Politically, I believe 2016-17 will go down in the record books for MCUSD.  In just one year, our small community was visited by influential politicians, while our county residents voted to invest in our school district's future.  I want to take this time to briefly recap three major political events that took place here at MCUSD, the likes of which we may never see again, let alone in one year's time.

President Obama Visits Yosemite

The National Park System turned 100 in August of 2016, and President Obama became the first President to visit Yosemite since JFK in 1962.   President Obama visited a week after Yosemite Valley School students left for summer, allowing Marine One and the Secret Service to set up shop on the campus of Yosemite Valley School during the President's trip. While in Yosemite, President Obama discussed his "Every Kid in a Park Initiative,” which allows fourth graders nationwide to download free passes for themselves and their families to visit national parks and federal lands for free.

Measure L Passes (School Bond)

History was made when Mariposa County voters passed Measure L, a school facilities bond.  That support was in the form of a $24 million facilities improvement bond passed overwhelmingly by County voters last November. It was the first time in the long history of Mariposa County that such a bond had been passed.  The bond, which had more than 70 percent of support from voters, was passed so improvements can be made on the district’s aging facilities. Many of the facilities have major problems, from poor heating and air conditioning, bad roofs and much more.

State Superintendent Torlakson visits MCUSD

The State Superintendent took time to tour multiple campuses at MCUSD.  Superintendent Torlakson witnessed first hand a  Grizzly Spell Out, performed by Coach Desandres and students. Mr. Torlakson saw first hand the fire science program at MCHS, calling it “by far the most outstanding fire department I’ve ever seen” of all the schools he has visited.  Mr. Torlakson also praised teacher Al Brondolo for his “inspirational leadership.”

Finally, I extend my sincere gratitude to all of you as we wrap up the 2016-17 school year. This completes my third year here at MCUSD and I have enjoyed working with all of you.  I am confident we have taken steps in a positive direction to create an environment that prioritizes supporting students and staff, and open to creative problem solving ideas and solutions.  I hope all of you enjoy this summer and spend plenty of time with friends and family.

Warm regards,

Jeff Aranguena

Mariposa County Unified School District

Director of Human Resources/Student Services