Hello Everyone,
The Superintendent Dr. Emy Flores has denied our request for Samantha to have a seat at her Class of 2024 WCHS graduation. This letter was sent in the mail and received on Friday 5/3/24, along with a follow up email at 3:55PM on 5/3/24 sent by Monica Kelley, on Dr. Flores' behalf (35 minutes before the office closed).
***This letter was not marked as confidential so I am able to share it with you all***
I sent a follow up email to Dr. Flores concerning this letter:
If not interested- Please skip this portion for steps on how to help, right below
"My second request is for your "long standing tradition" of the Gold Rose Ceremony to be conducted at the Class of 2024 WCHS graduation in memory and honor of Samantha.
West Covina High School has done this ceremony before in the past for deceased teachers, students, and fallen Bulldogs.
The ASB Class of 2024 Vice President of 3 years, and outstanding bulldog on campus and athletics, should be recognized.
I don't see why this request should be an issue since it has been conducted before, for others.
Although I am unhappy with this decision, there are many points I may make pertaining to the research backing your decision. Please see below:
Citing research from a child psychologist from the Mid-Late 1900's when this current generation of students are from the 21st century, isn't the most substantial research to refer to with psychology studies proving that the mental development of the youth of today is not comparable to previous studies.
I would also like to note that other districts that practice this graduation remembrance seem to follow more current research, and involve other local mental health and wellness resources while involving their community.
Many districts made this decision while consulting the public and specialists both, national and local for the better accommodation for the youth of today.
A large challenge in today's education management is adapting to today's evolving youth, and their needs. "
What can you do to help?
2 Options below!
1. Leave a statement for Dr. Flores / Monica Kelley (Secretary) by:
Calling 626-939-4600 ext. 1002 (Mon-Fri 7:30AM-4:30PM)
2. Send a Request to our District 31, California House of Representatives Grace F. Napolitano
West Covina, CA Residents (5-Step Process, Please see a suggested message you can put to bring awareness to our cause!)
Short Request Form - CA District 31
Issue of Concern - Education
Subject: Save Samantha Vuong A Seat!
"Hi my name is XXX , and I want to bring awareness to West Covina Unified School District's, Superintendent Emy Flores's, decision to not give Samantha Vuong a Seat at her Class of 2024 Graduation. She was the ASB Class of 2024 Vice President for 3 years, and an extremely involved student on campus with clubs, sports, and events. She deserves a seat because XXX."
I apologize for not updating very often, it's difficult to find time to ensure that I can give you all clear updates in real time.
Thank you so much, with all my heart, for supporting my little sister Samantha, her family, her friends in advocating for what she deserves.
- Jade Vuong