Rincon Tribe Sign Monumental Agreement with Valley Center-Pauma Unified

The Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians and the Valley Center-Pauma Unified School District signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) yesterday to further expand their partnership to help improve school attendance and academics of tribal students. The signing ceremony included keynote remarks from California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, Valley Center-Pauma Unified Superintendent Ron McCowan, and Rincon Tribal Chairman Bo Mazzetti.

“Our tribal students are our number one priority,” said Chairman Mazzetti of the Rincon Tribe. “It is our hope this MOU will strengthen our efforts to keep our students in school, improve academic grade point averages and overall boost their self-esteem and confidence. We want to make sure we take the necessary steps to provide our students with the appropriate resources and tools they need to be successful. I appreciate the commitment Superintendent McCowan has taken to work together to make this program successful.”

“We are thrilled to announce this historic agreement between the Valley Center-Pauma Unified School District and the Rincon Tribe. This partnership shows our collective commitment to supporting students by working collaboratively with a sovereign tribal nation. Together, we will create enriching educational opportunities that honor and integrate the rich cultural heritage of the Rincon Tribe, ensuring a brighter future for all our students,” said Superintendent McCowan “We look forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership will have on their academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and overall well-being.”

The MOU will provide interventions and other support to Rincon students aimed at improving school attendance and academic performance ultimately reducing expulsion and suspension rates.