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Teen Pregnancy Prevention
In March 2009, the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program (TPPP) provided parenting sessions at S.E.A.’s Soto site. The courses teach teenagers to be better nurturing and loving parents. This year’s program featured a “Promise Letter” through which the young parents promised to “make sacrifices for their children and provide them with a healthy upbringing.”

The program also provided prevention education sessions at the Montebello site consisting of anatomy, information about Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and contraceptives, and a visit to a local clinic. Planned Parenthood made an on-site visit and tested for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia – the two leading STDs among youth. Participating teens learned about their bodies, and how to protect themselves from STDs and unplanned pregnancies.

Winter 2009 Commencement
Graduation ceremonies always hold a special place in the hearts of all who have been a part of a student’s academic effort. Every ceremony is unique and marked by moments that will remain in the memories of those present.

S.E.A. held its Winter 2009 Commencement Ceremony at Montebello High School Auditorium, where an outstanding 82% of the participants qualified for a high school diploma. It goes without saying that the 104 students who graced the stage at Montebello H.S. owe much of their success to dedicated and hard working staff at the various S.E.A. sites and district offices. A special thank you to all staff volunteers who made the ceremony successful.

S.EA. Again to Compete for Top NFTE Prize
The Third Annual Merrill Lynch/Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) Greater Los Angeles Regional Youth Business Plan Competition is being held Thursday, June 4, 2009 from 6-9 p.m. at the Town and Gown, USC Campus. This year, S.E.A. Firestone student Jacqueline Gomez is a top contender for her plan Jem’s Promise. Gomez is one of three finalists who will present an eight-minute business plan to a distinguished panel of judges.

Last year, S.E.A. Girls Academy student, Evelyn Espinoza, won top honors for her venture Hippies Candles and was featured as a young entrepreneur on Fox Business, The Los Angeles Times, and on public television station KOCE-TV’s Biz Kid$ Show.

The NFTE is a youth program that teaches entrepreneurial skills using exciting, experiential curriculum in a variety of settings. Through NFTE, students participate in business plan competitions at local, regional and national levels.

Much Ado About Nothing
On March 26, 2009, S.E.A. South Central joined dozens of schools from throughout Los Angeles County for a live performance at the San Gabriel Civic Auditorium, where the East Los Angeles Classic Theatre presented its version of Shakespeare’s play Much Ado About Nothing. For many students, the event marked their first theatre experience.

Students also had an opportunity to explore the historical San Gabriel Mission – the fourth mission established by Father Junipero Serra in 1771. According to Richard Contreras, a teacher at S.E.A. South Central, “Like the play, none of the students had ever visited a mission, even though California History is part of the fourth grade standards.” The students enjoyed the field trip and are interested in future expeditions to the area.

S.E.A. DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

Recently, S.E.A. mourned the loss of Robert Garcia, a board member, probation officer and friend. For many youth, Robert was not only a friend, but also a mentor. A graduate of Cal State Los Angeles in Criminal Justice, Robert worked for Los Angeles County Probation Department for almost 17 years, and dedicated his career to providing service and opportunities to L.A.’s inner-city youth. His leadership and vision had a positive and profound impact in our communities. Robert will be greatly missed by all of us at S.E.A.