December 22, 2000
Sweetwater Board of Trustee election winners—incumbent Robert Griego and new member Pearl Quiñones—officially began their four-year terms at the board's Dec. 11 meeting. First elected in 1992, Mr. Griego has seen major Sweetwater progress during his tenure.
One of two accomplishments he is most proud of is the dramatic increase in SAT 9 scores at all district schools in every grade level—an achievement that ensures Sweetwater sites will receive the cash awards Governor Gray Davis has earmarked for high-performance schools.
"We've heard from the state that we're one of only 7 districts in California to raise scores across the board districtwide—and we're the largest district in the state to do it. We're happy to be getting the recognition we deserve."
The November passage of Sweetwater's $187 million school improvement bond is another major victory.
"Prop. BB makes it possible for our students and teachers to have the optimal environment for learning," said Griego. "There's lots to do, but through it all we'll keep our focus where it belongs—on student achievement."
With her son administering the trustee's oath, Pearl Quiñones was sworn in for her first-ever public office. A 20-year resident of National City, Ms. Quiñones has worked as a dropout prevention specialist for the San Ysidro School District since 1990.
Ms. Quiñones is Sweetwater's newest trustee—joining Jim Cartmill, Robert Griego, Arlie Ricasa and Greg Sandoval—on the five-member board. She looks forward to getting started in her new responsibilities.
"I want to thank the community for their support. I'm here because I believe every child has the right to a quality education," said Ms. Quiñones.
At the December 11 meeting, the board also elected its new officers for 2001. The trustees selected Robert Griego as president, Greg Sandoval as vice president and Pearl Quiñones as clerk. The trustees will serve one year in their respective positions.
The Sweetwater Board of Trustees sets policies for the district, which serves over 35,000 seventh through twelve grade students and an additional 41,000 adult learners in 25 schools in the South Bay.
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