ToyonSan Jose, CA 95127 Phone: 408/923-1965 Fax: 408/937-4908 Principal: William Mulford Enrollment: 509 T oyon School is situated in the East foothills of the Berryessa Union School District. Built in 1955, the school enjoys a rich tradition of commitment to providing a high quality educational program addressing the unique learning needs of all children. Toyon’s location is easily accessible to several community resources supporting the instructional program:Berryessa Public Library, Penitencia Creek Park, Alum Rock Park, and a local fire station. Several features distinguish Toyon School and the educational programs offered to students — a highly qualified and dedicated staff, high levels of community and parent involvement, and a variety of unique opportunities for student success.Highly Qualified Staff Parent and Community Involvement The Reading Tutor program, staffed by trained parents and community members, provides fifteen minutes of individualized daily reading assistance for recommended first grade students. In addition, many parents and community members participate in a monthly workday assisting with a variety of gardening and other school beautification efforts. Toyon benefits from the work of a very active and supportive Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Through a highly organized fundraising program, the PTA provides resources to the staff and school in support of instructional improvement efforts at Toyon Toyon also benefits from the hard work of a dedicated School Site Council (SSC) The Council is comprised of school staff, parents, and community members who meet monthly to assist in the implementation of Toyon’s School Improvement Plan. In addition, the SSC oversees school level expenditures in support of the school plan. By soliciting donations and through various fundraising activities, the PTA, Site Council, and community members have been able to provide new, state of the art, and safety compliant playground structures. Opportunities for Student Success In an effort to assure high levels of achievement and success for all students, several other program options are offered at Toyon School. A full range of special education services is available to qualified students at all grade levels. A school psychologist is assigned to Toyon two days each week to conduct student assessments and offer consultation services to students, parents and staff. Programs available to assist in the development of English for non-English speakers are provided through English as a Second Language (ESL) and Primary Language Assistance (PLA) tutors. Program offerings are available to identified Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) students through an after school program. The district Alternative Education program is offered to students at Toyon School. An after school Homework Center offers additional assistance to students requiring further instruction. Toyon students are also fortunate to be able to participate weekly in music, art, and dance classes because our Site Council has approved this and other types of enrichment activities as site funded priorities. Opportunities for Student Involvement Toyon sponsors elaborate multi-cultural events honoring the diversity of our student body and encouraging participation through song, dance, and the sharing of ethnic foods, customs, and traditions. Staff members also work with students to reinforce important life skills that contribute to the personal success of students. Through continued reinforcement, students not only benefit from a strong academic program but also develop important skills that assist them in working effectively with others. A great example of this is the "Big Buddy System’ where older students meet regularly with younger students tutoring or teaching and sharing new activities with each other. Students also have opportunities and are encouraged to provide service within the school and larger community. |