20 School News Farkas named HUSD’S top principal... (cont. from page 1)


district recognized me as a leader, our school was recognized by our district for our outstanding success.


What does it say about the school? The award demonstrates our school district’s recognition of our outstanding school. It is similar to our Title I, Distinguished School and National Blue Ribbon team accomplishments. What are you proudest of during your tenure at Cottonwood?


Cottonwood was named a California Distinguished School in 2010. Dave Farkas and his dad painted this seal on the school building one weekend.


Local schools name top employees


The three Anza Valley public shools have named their 2011 top employees, according to a press relase from the Hemet Unified School District. All recipients will be honored at a district-wide event on March 27.


Here they are along with some well-chosen words from their respective principals: Cottonwood Teacher of the Year Kim Johnston


Mrs. Kim Johnston is not only an outstanding teacher at our Distinguished school, she is the leader of Cottonwood school’s response to intervention program. Kim works with staff to


consistently track and identify Cottonwood’s ‘at-risk’ students in all grade levels. Kim also takes pride in building relationships with her


colleagues, students and parents. Her preparation and commitment is evident when facilitating her IEP meetings. Kim’s ability to work as a team player, analyze assessment data and assist many students inside Cottonwood’s Learning Center has resulted in Cottonwood School receiving a Riverside County Models of Academic Excellence Award for our Response to Intervention model. To further Cottonwood’s quest to achieve our Vision of “Excellence – Every Person - Every Day,” Kim has recently led our intervention program in upgrading opportunities for early readers working below grade level. Kim Johnston is an outstanding selection for “Teacher of the Year” representing Cottonwood School.


(cont. on page 21)


Although our accomplishments as a school have been special, I’m most proud of our ability to gel as a team and work together day in and day out. It is our staff and community relationships I am most proud of. We call it “Cottonwood Pride”! What things would you like to get better at? Through experience, I would personally like to improve on my communication skills. The room for improvement is not so much for the big concerns and school systems but the daily interactions that make a difference. Every minute counts in a school day and every conversation matters.


Ensuring everyone is on the same page and working towards the goals and vision takes a conscious effort.


Cottonwood Community


D edicated A ccountable V ery inspiring E nergetic


F lexible A ccessible R eally Positive K ind A lways trustworthy S upportive DAVE FARKAS -a concrete poem from the elementary teachers at Cottonwood


Mr. Farkas is a Principal who goes above and beyond. While we love our incredible staff at Cottonwood, it is the principal who sets the tone. Mr. Farkas’s tone is one of excellence and dedication, and you can see that reflected everywhere in our school. A great leader willing to listen to the suggestions of others. Mr. Farkas always lends an ear and will incorporate ideas that are not his own. He understands that a fabric knit from many fibers is stronger than one made from a single source.


- Vanessa Carlson Cottonwood Parent


Recently, Mr. Farkas was voted Principal of the Year by Hemet Unified School District. It doesn’t surprise us students, considering he is very fair, honorable, and takes great pride in our school. He also interacts in many of our school’s events, such as family reading night, preparing for the CST’s, and encouraging kids to attend school. Mr. Farkas always gives us pep talks before big tests and congratulates us no matter how we do. It makes all of us want to do well for him and our school. The teachers even think Mr. Farkas is one of the best principals Cottonwood has ever had, even though he has only been here for four years. In conclusion, I believe Mr. Farkas deserves this title.


-Josue Meza Cottonwood 6th Grade Tributes from the


Who has been the greatest influence on your success?


Leading up to my principalship, my greatest influences have been my mentors and parents. Lately, I have drawn inspiration from reading about the life and influence of President Lincoln.


But


The kids love it! This year we are going with a few new characters including the book Principal Fred Won’t Go To Bed. So pajamas are the costume this March. Anything you want to add?


Trying to keep up with their dedication and energy is what keeps me running at full speed. My team inspires me more than I inspire them! Will you ever wear the frog suit again? I sure hope so! That Family Reading night was a blast.


when it comes down to a regular day at Cottonwood, my greatest influences are my team leaders.


I am so proud of our staff, families and students. It truly takes the dedication of everyone in a school community to reach the successes Cottonwood has reached.


Without every single person on this campus, I would not be recognized as Hemet Unified Principal of the Year. This award belongs to all of us! Our community will always have a special place in my heart.


Family Reading Night, 2011 Dave Farkas


We are not surprised that Dave has received this honor; we have known all along we have the best Principal in the district. Staff and community are very impressed with Dave. He is genuine, and I believe people can see that. Many of our staff members come to work every day and give 120%.


Dave recognizes this and never misses the opportunity to praise them, or to send a “thank you” note. It is always a great feeling to be appreciated. It is a pleasure to come to work everyday at Cottonwood! You make us all shine.


-Yolanda Carrillo and the office staff at Cottonwood


“A great principal.... and a halfway decent frog.” -Kermit


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