February 07, 2014

Rep. Vargas Congratulates Heber Elementary On “2013-14 Schools to Watch” Designation

WASHINGTON, DC (February 7, 2014) – Today Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) congratulates Heber Elementary School for its recent “2013-14 Schools to Watch™ - Taking Center Stage (STW™—TCS) Program” designation.  The STW™—TCS Program, implemented primarily by the California League of Middle Schools and the California Department of Education, highlights exceptional teaching, as well as exemplary academic performance by students.

“Heber Elementary’s accomplishments are a testament to the academic achievements that result when diligent, motivated students are taught by hardworking, committed educators,” said Rep. Vargas.  “Heber Elementary is a model institution that showcases the first rate education available in California public schools.  Its designation as highly successful school is well-earned.”

The STW™-TCS schools are high-performing schools that serve as models to demonstrate excellence in academic achievement, responsiveness to the needs of adolescent students, social equality, and organizational support.  Schools applying for the STW™—TCS designation must have met or exceeded the Academic Performance Index (API) schoolwide growth target for three of the previous five years, and school administrators must conduct a self-study evaluation and complete an extensive narrative application.  Schools awarded STW™-TCS designation host visitors, from California and around the world, who aim to reproduce the STW™-TCS standards and practices.

“This program helps California schools close the achievement gap by setting the standards for excellent practices that promote an engaging educational environment,” said Rep. Vargas.  “The students, educators, and administrators at Heber Elementary should be proud of their outstanding accomplishment.”

Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border.  Vargas is currently serving his first term in Congress.  He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.