By Olivia BarnardDecember 10, 2024 (Lakeside) -- I first met Robin Pawl and her horses Shelby, Indy, Ka Lio, and Phoenix on a Saturday afternoon. The faded Lakeside hills framed the riding center as hawks called out and the pepper trees swayed. I loved horses growing up, but I had never been on a ranch. I didn’t know what to expect from volunteering with horses or students with disabilities. But The Magic Horse website’s description of therapeutic riding practices was interesting, the place charming and intriguing, and I was going to give it a shot.Upon meeting Robin and the horses, I couldn’t have predicted how much personal growth would come out of our experiences together. In sharing my experiences, I hope to inspire others to take the opportunity and discover the magic of the horse, just as I did.My first day went as expected—I was on poop duty. Students were scheduled to arrive…
Source: Santee School DistrictDecember 26, 2024 (Santee) - At the Organizational Meeting on December 17, 2024, Tracie Thill was sworn in to Seat No. 4 on the Santee School District Board of Education, with her term expiring in December 2028."On behalf of the Board of Education, I welcome Tracie Thill to our team," said President Barbara Ryan. "We all share a common commitment to serving the best interests of our district, and I look forward to working together as we continue to provide meaningful opportunities and support for the success of our students." Mrs. Thill is a 23-year resident of Santee, where she has built strong connections in the community. A product of Santee schools, she attended Hill Creek Elementary and graduated from Santana High School. She is the wife of a Navy Diver Veteran and the mother of three children. As a dedicated community advocate, Mrs.…
East County News ServiceJanuary 13, 2025 (El Cajon) — Grossmont Union High School District’s governing board has approved a major bond refinancing plan which will save East County taxpayers nearly $19 million by reducing long-term interest costs on its existing school construction bonds.Dr. Gary Woods, board president, says, “These savings are exceptional. East County taxpayers’ investment in our bond program has completely transformed the educational opportunities that we will be able to provide students for years to come. Our Board is committed to saving taxpayers their hard-earned money whenever possible. We are truly grateful for the community’s trust and proud to offer these savings back to our taxpayers.”East County voters launched GUHSD's bond construction program with Proposition U, a $417 million bond approved in 2008, followed by Measure BB, a $128 million…