Phoenix Rising

 

"For last year's words belong to last year's language. And next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning."

T.S. Eliot

Poet, Critic

 

There is much to celebrate and appreciate as we close the book on 2015. 

 

Academically, Clayton Valley continues to be one of the highest performing high schools in the state. Our reputation has reached beyond the Bay Area resulting in national recognition of our students' academic and athletic achievements. This year's open enrollment period has been a tremendous success -- over 500 students to date remain on the wait list hoping to be a part of our great school. It's a true testament to our amazing students and the dedication of our fine teaching staff, guidance counselors and athletic coaches. 

 

In 2015, Clayton Valley achieved an impressive 15/15 Adequate Yearly Performance (AYP), a measurement for year-to-year student achievement on statewide assessments. With one of the most demanding graduation requirements in the state, Clayton Valley continues to excel at providing a world-class education. Our 2015 graduating class achieved our highest college admissions rate of 96% since becoming a charter. 

 

But it's more than just academics here at Clayton Valley. Our exceptional Music and Performing Arts programs were recognized recently at state competitions and were showcased in our local community throughout the year.  We're also proud of our student athletes and coaching staff who continually exhibit sportsmanship on and off the field of play.  Their hard work and tireless commitment have produced championship teams in Cross Country, Girls Volleyball and back-to-back CIF Football Championships.   

 

Our final activity for 2015 was the CIF Championship Football game at CSU Sacramento's Hornet Stadium. It was a "bittersweet" close to the end of the year. While it's easy to smile at the "thrill of victory," the greatest test of character is how our student athletes respond when the battle is tough and suffer through the "agony of defeat."   Ugly Eagle Football is -- as the teammates refer to themselves -- a close family. Our players played their hearts out, left it all out on the field and displayed a first-class attitude while facing a tough loss. I am extremely proud of their tremendous accomplishments this season.

 

Like a Phoenix rising...

As the story goes, the Phoenix is a mythical bird with fiery plumage that lives up to 100 years. Near the end of its life, it settles into its nest of twigs, which then burns ferociously, reducing the bird and nest to ashes. And from those ashes -- a fledgling Phoenix rises -- renewed and reborn.

 

Many of us have been fortunate to experience success and accomplishments this past year, and others have suffered loss or hardship.  Life is full of "ups and downs." I look forward to a new year and I am filled with enthusiasm and excitement as the Phoenix rises. Renewal brings hope as we "let go of the past" and "embrace the present" with a new voice and a new beginning.

 

Happy New Year 2016!

David Linzey

Executive Director