Sierra Sands Unified School District is welcoming its newest and brightest superintendent, Dr. April Moore. Despite it only being her first year here in Ridgecrest, Moore already has plans for the future of education here.
One of Moore’s latest projects is the “Portrait of a Graduate” program.
“As we reimagine what learning looks like in our district, I think we can reimagine how we do school,” said Moore.
On Mar. 13, a group of students at Burroughs High School, all different grade ages and levels, were called together for a meeting in C10. During the presentation, students were asked what they wanted to know and learn for the future after graduation.
Many expressed how they wished for more classes with financial and social-based curriculum, as well as the need for more interactive assignments, such as critical thinking.
Moore’s goal for this program is to get an idea of what kind of support the staff and students want in the community. She hopes that everybody has a shared vision for the future, so they can all get there together.
Moore plans to spread the new system to middle schools, as well as elementary schools.
Previously, Moore had worked in the Roseville Joint Union High School District. When Moore became interested in the job posting at Sierra Sands, she never expected that she would fall in love with the town and community itself.
One of Moore’s fond memories of being in Ridgecrest for the first time was when she encountered the cast of a previous play coming out from backstage.
“They were coming out after the matinee, laughing and having such a good time,” said Moore. “I just thought, ‘What a wonderful school.’ If the students are happy and learning together, that’s a place where I want to be a part of.”
She mentions how loving and supportive the community has been to her, not just the staff and students, but people who are looking for a newer future as well.
“Keep being amazing, keep looking forward to what’s possible, and let’s set the vision together,” said Moore.
