Governor Allocates $6 million to Vaughn Learning CenterJune 9, 2008 |
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 Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced at a recent press conference that $463 million in Proposition 1D funds will go to 29 California Charter Schools - with $6 million allocated to Vaughn Next Century Learning Center, a First 5 LA grantee in Pacoima. Home to a School Readiness Program, Vaughn's Principal, Dr. Yvonne Chan, made this once failing elementary school into one of the best charter schools in the nation. A huge fan of Dr. Chan's work, Schwarzenegger choose to make the allocation announcement at her school, where he expressed thanks for her inspirational leadership. "You have been a champion for charter schools not only here in this area, but you've been a champion internationally," said Schwarzenegger. "All over this country you have been a leader. It is extraordinary, the work that you have done." Vaughn, an urban pre K through 12th grade public school, currently serves 2,077 students, 96.9 percent of who qualify for the state school lunch program. Previously a low-performing public elementary school, Vaughn gained charter status in 1993. It now offers early education, middle and high school curriculum and several enhancement programs including accelerated English Learning classes, and a requirement that all its high school students take courses in Mandarin Chinese. Dr. Chan forged partnerships with Mission College, UCLA, Cal State LA, Cal State Northridge and Alliant International University. She also spearheaded the construction of a library for the community. A believer in reaching children early, Dr. Chan integrated state preschool, federal Head Start and the First 5 LA School Readiness program into a full-day preschool program to ensure that children are well prepared for their first day of kindergarten. |
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