WawonaNews.com - August 2020
YOSEMITE-WAWONA ELEMENTARY CHARTER SCHOOL
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, August 11, 2020
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualana Falls Road
Wawona, CA
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
CONSENT AGENDA
NOTE: The Board will be asked to approve all of the following items by a single vote, unless any member of the Board or of the public asks that an item be removed from the consent agenda and considered and discussed separately.
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of June 23, 2020
3.3–Approve Payroll
3.4- Approve Warrants
3.5 -Accept Donations to YWECS
HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
The public may address the Board on any matter pertaining to the school that is not on the agenda. There will be no Board discussion and no action will be taken unless listed on a subsequent agenda. Speakers will be limited to 3 minutes.
ACTION ITEMS
ADOPTION OF REVISED 2020-21 BUDGET FOR YWECS
Consideration and Action on the Adoption of a Revised 2020-21 budget for YWECS based on P-2 Attendance Report enrollment.
ADOPTION OF A RE-OPENING PLAN AND COVID-19 LETTER TO PARENTS FOR YWECS FOR THE 2020-21 SCHOOL YEAR
Consideration and Action on a re-opening plan detailing the procedures and protocols that will be put into place for the re-opening of YWECS. Approval of a letter that will accompany the plan when distributed to parents.
INFORMATION ITEMS
FINAL ATTENDANCE PERIOD REPORT
STAFF REPORTS
Staff will discuss student enrollment for 2020-21 and plans for operating safely during COVID.
BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Request that various items be placed on the next agenda for discussion and/or action.
Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan adoption (2 September meetings required)
NEXT BOARD MEETING
Unless otherwise announced, the next regular meeting of the Board of Directors will be scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. at the Wawona School
CLOSED SESSION: Personnel/Negotiations/Litigation
Note: The Board will consider and may act upon any of the following items in closed session. Any action taken will be reported publically at the end of closed session as required by law.
Personnel (Gov. Code 54957)
RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION: Announce Closed Session Actions
ADJOURNMENT
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, August 11, 2020
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualana Falls Road
Wawona, CA
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
CONSENT AGENDA
NOTE: The Board will be asked to approve all of the following items by a single vote, unless any member of the Board or of the public asks that an item be removed from the consent agenda and considered and discussed separately.
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of June 23, 2020
3.3–Approve Payroll
3.4- Approve Warrants
3.5 -Accept Donations to YWECS
HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
The public may address the Board on any matter pertaining to the school that is not on the agenda. There will be no Board discussion and no action will be taken unless listed on a subsequent agenda. Speakers will be limited to 3 minutes.
ACTION ITEMS
ADOPTION OF REVISED 2020-21 BUDGET FOR YWECS
Consideration and Action on the Adoption of a Revised 2020-21 budget for YWECS based on P-2 Attendance Report enrollment.
ADOPTION OF A RE-OPENING PLAN AND COVID-19 LETTER TO PARENTS FOR YWECS FOR THE 2020-21 SCHOOL YEAR
Consideration and Action on a re-opening plan detailing the procedures and protocols that will be put into place for the re-opening of YWECS. Approval of a letter that will accompany the plan when distributed to parents.
INFORMATION ITEMS
FINAL ATTENDANCE PERIOD REPORT
STAFF REPORTS
Staff will discuss student enrollment for 2020-21 and plans for operating safely during COVID.
BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Request that various items be placed on the next agenda for discussion and/or action.
Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan adoption (2 September meetings required)
NEXT BOARD MEETING
Unless otherwise announced, the next regular meeting of the Board of Directors will be scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. at the Wawona School
CLOSED SESSION: Personnel/Negotiations/Litigation
Note: The Board will consider and may act upon any of the following items in closed session. Any action taken will be reported publically at the end of closed session as required by law.
Personnel (Gov. Code 54957)
RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION: Announce Closed Session Actions
ADJOURNMENT
Old Fashioned Love - by Tom Bopp
The Official Wawona Hiking Mask
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The Limited Edition Official Wawona Hiking Mask. Makes even dogs happy. Not available anywhere. Don't order now. Sorry...
Blue Jay Fire Update August 4, 2020
Location: In Yosemite wilderness 4 miles south of White Wolf campground and 1 mile west of Lukens Lake trail at approximately 9,000 feet elevation.
Discovery Date: July 24, 2020 Size: 21 acres
Containment: 0% Strategy: Confine and contain
Cause: Lightning
The Blue Jay Fire was ignited by lightning on July 24th. It is not currently burning on or along any trails.The strategy for this fire is to confine and contain it to a specific area, utilizing natural barriers for the fire to burn into, such as granite and bare ground. This minimizes fire suppression impacts in the wilderness and reduce exposure to firefighters in a remote area of the park where there are no trails or campgrounds. Firefighters are on scene and will continue to monitor fire behavior. One Yosemite Wildfire Module (WFM) is committed to the incident.
The fire is creeping and smoldering through ground litter on the forest floor and burning in pockets of accumulated dead and down logs with some isolated single tree torching along its active perimeter. Fire is producing moderate light smoke moving to the east. The fire is expected to continue creeping and smoldering as it burns through timber litter with an overstory of lodgepole and red fir.
The area the fire is burning in is a fire adapted ecosystem. There are currently no threats to infrastructure or access on maintained trails. The fire will be visible from Tioga Road, Glacier Point, and from high country viewpoints.
Park Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities.
For the most up-to-date fire information follow the Inciweb link at: inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6888/
Location: In Yosemite wilderness 4 miles south of White Wolf campground and 1 mile west of Lukens Lake trail at approximately 9,000 feet elevation.
Discovery Date: July 24, 2020 Size: 21 acres
Containment: 0% Strategy: Confine and contain
Cause: Lightning
The Blue Jay Fire was ignited by lightning on July 24th. It is not currently burning on or along any trails.The strategy for this fire is to confine and contain it to a specific area, utilizing natural barriers for the fire to burn into, such as granite and bare ground. This minimizes fire suppression impacts in the wilderness and reduce exposure to firefighters in a remote area of the park where there are no trails or campgrounds. Firefighters are on scene and will continue to monitor fire behavior. One Yosemite Wildfire Module (WFM) is committed to the incident.
The fire is creeping and smoldering through ground litter on the forest floor and burning in pockets of accumulated dead and down logs with some isolated single tree torching along its active perimeter. Fire is producing moderate light smoke moving to the east. The fire is expected to continue creeping and smoldering as it burns through timber litter with an overstory of lodgepole and red fir.
The area the fire is burning in is a fire adapted ecosystem. There are currently no threats to infrastructure or access on maintained trails. The fire will be visible from Tioga Road, Glacier Point, and from high country viewpoints.
Park Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities.
For the most up-to-date fire information follow the Inciweb link at: inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6888/
Secrets of Wawona: Tiny House - by Tom Bopp
Yosemite Ranger Evening Program in Wawona – Admission Free
Sierra News Online
Date/Time
Date(s) - 07/28/2020
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location
The Redwoods In Yosemite
Categories
In a Partnership with Yosemite Conservancy, the Wawona Ranger Evening Program offers a narrative/discussion about a variety of topics, including the park’s geology, early people, wildflowers and trees, astronomy and bird watching. (And don’t forget to ask about the history of the Park Rangers’ famous hat!) These Yosemite programs are offered in all areas of the park depending on the season and access. The Wawona Park Ranger Evening Program is 1 hour long and meets every Tuesday through September 1, 2020 at 7 p.m. at The Redwoods building located on 8038 Chilnualna Falls Rd in Wawona, California. No reservations are required. Social distancing measures will be taken to ensure your safety.
Sierra News Online
Date/Time
Date(s) - 07/28/2020
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location
The Redwoods In Yosemite
Categories
In a Partnership with Yosemite Conservancy, the Wawona Ranger Evening Program offers a narrative/discussion about a variety of topics, including the park’s geology, early people, wildflowers and trees, astronomy and bird watching. (And don’t forget to ask about the history of the Park Rangers’ famous hat!) These Yosemite programs are offered in all areas of the park depending on the season and access. The Wawona Park Ranger Evening Program is 1 hour long and meets every Tuesday through September 1, 2020 at 7 p.m. at The Redwoods building located on 8038 Chilnualna Falls Rd in Wawona, California. No reservations are required. Social distancing measures will be taken to ensure your safety.
Yosemite Officials Seek Public’s Help In Locating Missing Hiker
Yosemite, CA – Yosemite National Park staff and other cooperating agencies continue to assist the Madera County Sheriff’s Office in finding a hiker who went missing over the July Fourth holiday.
This week, Yosemite officials are asking members of the public if you have any information about Sandra Johnsen-Hughes or if you have been in the area south of Merced Pass and Buena Vista Crest during July, even if you did not see her or her abandoned gear, to email or call the desk officer.
Johnsen-Hughes is described as a 54-year-old female, five-feet, three inches in height, and about 150 pounds with brown eyes and brown hair. You can view photos of her in the image box.
The missing woman was last seen on July 4 near the Chiquito Pass Trailhead in Madera County and was reportedly camping alone in the Sierra National Forest and had crashed her vehicle from which she was seen walking away after refusing assistance from other motorists.
Yosemite, CA – Yosemite National Park staff and other cooperating agencies continue to assist the Madera County Sheriff’s Office in finding a hiker who went missing over the July Fourth holiday.
This week, Yosemite officials are asking members of the public if you have any information about Sandra Johnsen-Hughes or if you have been in the area south of Merced Pass and Buena Vista Crest during July, even if you did not see her or her abandoned gear, to email or call the desk officer.
Johnsen-Hughes is described as a 54-year-old female, five-feet, three inches in height, and about 150 pounds with brown eyes and brown hair. You can view photos of her in the image box.
The missing woman was last seen on July 4 near the Chiquito Pass Trailhead in Madera County and was reportedly camping alone in the Sierra National Forest and had crashed her vehicle from which she was seen walking away after refusing assistance from other motorists.
A sleeping bag matching her recent REI purchase was found a few days later, off-trail, 2.5 miles north of the accident scene, and just inside the Yosemite National Park boundary. Her original campsite with most of her gear appears to have been abandoned.
Yosemite officials add, if you are out in the area and find belongings out there, do not touch them, Instead, take photos, note the exact location, and report it when you return from your outdoor activities.
Anyone with information or who has been in the same area where she went missing is asked to please email: [email protected] or call 209 372-0610.
Written by Tori James
Yosemite officials add, if you are out in the area and find belongings out there, do not touch them, Instead, take photos, note the exact location, and report it when you return from your outdoor activities.
Anyone with information or who has been in the same area where she went missing is asked to please email: [email protected] or call 209 372-0610.
Written by Tori James
Neowisdom Returns (every 7,000 years) - by Tom Bopp
New Floor Tiles For the School
A HUGE thank you to the WAPOA members for supporting our school! We are so grateful for the generous donation which allowed us to update the tile in our art/science classroom.
A HUGE thank you to the WAPOA members for supporting our school! We are so grateful for the generous donation which allowed us to update the tile in our art/science classroom.
Instructions To Request Items at the Wawona Bassett Memorial Library
To request items at the Wawona Bassett Memorial Library, visit https://sjvls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mzhq/? (The San Joaquin Valley Library System: Valley Cat) and log in using your library card number and pin number. Don't know your pin? It may be the last four digits of your phone number. Call the library (209-375-6510) to get it. You can then search for items and request them by clicking ‘place hold’. Once your items have been delivered to your library you will be notified by either phone or email. To make an appointment to pick your items up, the librarian will call you when your items are available for curbside pickup. Call the library during open hours if you have any questions. 209-375-6510
LIBRARY HOURS:
MONDAY AND FRIDAY: 1PM – 6 PM
To request items at the Wawona Bassett Memorial Library, visit https://sjvls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mzhq/? (The San Joaquin Valley Library System: Valley Cat) and log in using your library card number and pin number. Don't know your pin? It may be the last four digits of your phone number. Call the library (209-375-6510) to get it. You can then search for items and request them by clicking ‘place hold’. Once your items have been delivered to your library you will be notified by either phone or email. To make an appointment to pick your items up, the librarian will call you when your items are available for curbside pickup. Call the library during open hours if you have any questions. 209-375-6510
LIBRARY HOURS:
MONDAY AND FRIDAY: 1PM – 6 PM
Need Some Basil?
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Basil is ready for harvesting. Wawona residents are welcome to stop by the garden next to the school and take some basil leaves home.
Some War Songs - by Tom Bopp
Thanks To Funding By Our Wawona Friends of the Library
The Wawona Bassett Memorial Library will re-open July 17th for curbside service only
Hours will be: Monday & Friday 1 p.m. ~ 6 p.m.
You may use our new online form (coming soon) to reserve materials, pick up holds and choose a time for pick-up.
Materials will be checked out and brought to your car when you arrive.
WiFi is available in the library parking lot.
To request items at the Wawona Bassett Memorial Library, visit: https://sjvls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mzhq/?
and log in using your library card number and pin number. Don't know your pin? It may be the last four digits of your phone number. Call the library (209-375-6510) to get it. You can then search for items and request them by clicking ‘place hold’. Once your items have been delivered to your library you will be notified by either phone or email. To make an appointment to pick your items up, go to:
http://www.mariposalibrary.org
and fill out the curbside pickup request form for your library.
The Wawona Bassett Memorial Library will re-open July 17th for curbside service only
Hours will be: Monday & Friday 1 p.m. ~ 6 p.m.
You may use our new online form (coming soon) to reserve materials, pick up holds and choose a time for pick-up.
Materials will be checked out and brought to your car when you arrive.
WiFi is available in the library parking lot.
To request items at the Wawona Bassett Memorial Library, visit: https://sjvls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mzhq/?
and log in using your library card number and pin number. Don't know your pin? It may be the last four digits of your phone number. Call the library (209-375-6510) to get it. You can then search for items and request them by clicking ‘place hold’. Once your items have been delivered to your library you will be notified by either phone or email. To make an appointment to pick your items up, go to:
http://www.mariposalibrary.org
and fill out the curbside pickup request form for your library.
Video From 2005 - By Tom Bopp
Wawona Library to Reopen
Thank you to the Wawona Friends of the Library for funding the hours for reopening the Wawona Bassett Memorial Library because Mariposa County has a severe budget shortfall.
The Wawona Bassett Memorial Library Branch of the Mariposa County Library System
will re-open beginning:
July 15th
For curbside service only
New hours will be:
Monday and Friday
1 p.m. ~ 6 p.m.
***You may use our new online form (coming soon) to reserve materials, pick up holds and choose a time for pick-up
***Materials will be checked out and brought to your car when you call (209-375-6510) when you arrive in the library parking lot.
***There will also be an online form (coming soon) for new library cards.
Note from the Mariposa County Librarian:
The Library, like all local entities, is facing some rare challenges this year.
Due to the severe financial restraints the County is only able to open the Main Library three days per week. We have lost all funding for our extra help personal who staff all the Mariposa County Library Branches. This places the branches in stasis until we can elicit more funding.
However, the Bassett Memorial Library in Wawona will reopen July 15 with funds supplied by the Wawona Friends of the Library.
So that County Library branches may reopen, the Mariposa County Friends of the Library are setting up a GoFundMe account to pay for hours so the remaining branches may re-open. An announcement will be made when this fund is up and running.
Janet Chase-Williams MLIS, Mariposa County Librarian
Thank you to the Wawona Friends of the Library for funding the hours for reopening the Wawona Bassett Memorial Library because Mariposa County has a severe budget shortfall.
The Wawona Bassett Memorial Library Branch of the Mariposa County Library System
will re-open beginning:
July 15th
For curbside service only
New hours will be:
Monday and Friday
1 p.m. ~ 6 p.m.
***You may use our new online form (coming soon) to reserve materials, pick up holds and choose a time for pick-up
***Materials will be checked out and brought to your car when you call (209-375-6510) when you arrive in the library parking lot.
***There will also be an online form (coming soon) for new library cards.
Note from the Mariposa County Librarian:
The Library, like all local entities, is facing some rare challenges this year.
Due to the severe financial restraints the County is only able to open the Main Library three days per week. We have lost all funding for our extra help personal who staff all the Mariposa County Library Branches. This places the branches in stasis until we can elicit more funding.
However, the Bassett Memorial Library in Wawona will reopen July 15 with funds supplied by the Wawona Friends of the Library.
So that County Library branches may reopen, the Mariposa County Friends of the Library are setting up a GoFundMe account to pay for hours so the remaining branches may re-open. An announcement will be made when this fund is up and running.
Janet Chase-Williams MLIS, Mariposa County Librarian
Smoke Management and Air Quality
Smoke is common in the Sierra Nevada mountains whether it’s from campfires, wildfires, or from larger fires in the region. Inevitably, smoke conditions will occur in Yosemite; it’s much better to prepare yourself now than not be prepared later.
When managing a fire within the park, fire and air quality managers calculate how much smoke may be produced based on the vegetation (fuel) type, number of acres, and meteorological conditions. Particulate monitors are placed in areas that are most likely to see impacts of smoke.
When smoke from a regional wildfire is impacting the park, the local air quality district will send out alerts and notices.
If you have low tolerance for smoke and cannot or chose not to leave the area, take these measures to reduce your exposure in places where smoke from wildfire is occurring or may occur:
For additional Information:
Smoke is common in the Sierra Nevada mountains whether it’s from campfires, wildfires, or from larger fires in the region. Inevitably, smoke conditions will occur in Yosemite; it’s much better to prepare yourself now than not be prepared later.
When managing a fire within the park, fire and air quality managers calculate how much smoke may be produced based on the vegetation (fuel) type, number of acres, and meteorological conditions. Particulate monitors are placed in areas that are most likely to see impacts of smoke.
When smoke from a regional wildfire is impacting the park, the local air quality district will send out alerts and notices.
If you have low tolerance for smoke and cannot or chose not to leave the area, take these measures to reduce your exposure in places where smoke from wildfire is occurring or may occur:
- Consider upgrading existing building central heating and cooling system air filters before wildfire season to a higher MERV (higher efficiency) filter, specifically MERV 13-16 which can reduce indoor air particles by as much as 95%. HEPA filters (MERV 17-20) are the most efficient.
- Consider using a true HEPA air purifier in your home.
- Stay indoors as much as possible, especially if you’re sensitive to smoke, and avoid physical exertion.
- Close windows, doors, and outside vents when it is smoky. Use a fan or air conditioner to re-circulate the air. Ventilate your home and workplace during periods when it is least smoky.
- Drink lots of water, eat a balanced diet, and get adequate rest. Good health strengthens your immune system.
- Be diligent about taking medicines prescribed by your doctor if you have pre-existing respiratory problems.
For additional Information:
- Fire Information: [email protected]
- Yosemite National Park Fire Information web page: go.nps.gov/yosefire
- Yosemite Air Quality and Smoke Monitoring: www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring
- CDC web page: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/smoke-faq
- Facebook: @YosemiteFire
- Twitter: @YosemiteFire
The Swinging Bridge - By Tom Bopp
Tourism Officials: No Crowds, Lots of Safeguards at Yosemite This Summer
Posted by: SNO Staff July 2, 2020
OAKHURST – The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the National Park Service to make adjustments to how park visitors access Yosemite this summer. But there’s a silver lining: Park visitors are reporting more intimate, leisurely –and safe — experiences.
Each day 1,700 day-use park passes are available via online reservation. While the situation is not ideal when passes sell out, local tourism officials are emphasizing that Yosemite and the communities that surround the park are prioritizing visitor comfort and health, providing creative solutions during temporary setbacks.
“Thankfully, when you book a tour it includes your park entry pass for the day. Now, taking an expertly guided tour into Yosemite is a better option than ever,” said Rhonda Salisbury, CEO of Visit Yosemite | Madera County. “When people need reservations, we’ve got them covered. Local tour businesses have been safely guiding travelers to Yosemite for decades, and now they are ready to step in and meet the demand.”
Madera County pledges to maintain standards of cleanliness and safety for all visitors and staff — and posters at each shop, restaurant and hotel are there to inform potential guests the safeguards being implemented and encouraged.
So far this summer, visitors speak of idyllic conditions in the park, with cascading waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife and glorious sunshine-filled days. Add in the reduced number of people and ample parking, and the table is set for a unique summer experience in this national treasure.
Curious to see what Yosemite looks like this week? Access and view footage provided by Yosesmite Hospitality, at YOSEMITE NOW. Download video of Yosemite’s Cooks and Ahwahnee meadows, plus waterfall views from the Yosemite Village. (Videos are permitted for personal and commercial use.)
On your visit to Yosemite via a guided tour, be assured, all operators are dedicated to all current state guidelines of safety and sanitation standards. On tour vehicles, touchpoints are repeatedly cleaned, and there is plenty of hand sanitizer for frequent hand washing.
These tour companies are currently able to provide access to Yosemite National Park:
OAKHURST – The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the National Park Service to make adjustments to how park visitors access Yosemite this summer. But there’s a silver lining: Park visitors are reporting more intimate, leisurely –and safe — experiences.
Each day 1,700 day-use park passes are available via online reservation. While the situation is not ideal when passes sell out, local tourism officials are emphasizing that Yosemite and the communities that surround the park are prioritizing visitor comfort and health, providing creative solutions during temporary setbacks.
“Thankfully, when you book a tour it includes your park entry pass for the day. Now, taking an expertly guided tour into Yosemite is a better option than ever,” said Rhonda Salisbury, CEO of Visit Yosemite | Madera County. “When people need reservations, we’ve got them covered. Local tour businesses have been safely guiding travelers to Yosemite for decades, and now they are ready to step in and meet the demand.”
Madera County pledges to maintain standards of cleanliness and safety for all visitors and staff — and posters at each shop, restaurant and hotel are there to inform potential guests the safeguards being implemented and encouraged.
So far this summer, visitors speak of idyllic conditions in the park, with cascading waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife and glorious sunshine-filled days. Add in the reduced number of people and ample parking, and the table is set for a unique summer experience in this national treasure.
Curious to see what Yosemite looks like this week? Access and view footage provided by Yosesmite Hospitality, at YOSEMITE NOW. Download video of Yosemite’s Cooks and Ahwahnee meadows, plus waterfall views from the Yosemite Village. (Videos are permitted for personal and commercial use.)
On your visit to Yosemite via a guided tour, be assured, all operators are dedicated to all current state guidelines of safety and sanitation standards. On tour vehicles, touchpoints are repeatedly cleaned, and there is plenty of hand sanitizer for frequent hand washing.
These tour companies are currently able to provide access to Yosemite National Park:
- Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides
- Discover Yosemite Tours
- Crossroad Tours
- Photo Safari Yosemite
- Lasting Adventures, Inc.
- Yosemite Family Adventures
- Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System
- YExplore Yosemite Adventures
- Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures
- O.A.R.S. – Whitewater Rafting
- Yosemite Fly Fishing Guide
- Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions
- Sierra Nevada Motorsports
- Airborrn Aviation Services
