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UC Santa Barbara’s Gevirtz School is sending out a special holiday card this year – one designed by Harding University Partnership School (HUPS) fourth grader Juan Pablo Medina. Gevirtz School faculty members Carol Dixon and Hsiu-Zu Ho, both of whom are also respected artists, chose Medina’s watercolor of a chili pepper resembling an elf’s shoe, claiming that it’s “whimsical and reflects the cultural heritage of the school.” HUPS art teacher Sophie Cohan coordinated the classes that produced work for Dixon and Ho to judge.
In fall 2010 the Harding School officially became known as the Harding University Partnership School – a place of joy, excellence and international focus. Of particular distinction for the neighborhood is the University School’s status as a candidate for the International Baccalaureate Programme, making it the only Santa Barbara elementary school currently pursuing this highly acclaimed approach that emphasizes 21st century skills and international mindedness. In fall 2011 it was announced that the Harding University Partnership School achieved the second highest growth in 2011 API scores in Santa Barbara County. HUPS’ API score improved 57 points.
The stellar teaching staff is assisted by graduate level teacher candidates from UCSB, providing greater support for students at every grade level with the latest research-based practices. Faculty researchers and UCSB undergraduate tutors partner with teachers to deliver the latest evidence-based instruction.
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