School Board Meeting Wrap-Up

The following is from Tuesday’s Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education meeting.

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Senior recognized or academics, athletics

The board recognized National Merit Semifinalist and Laguna Beach High School senior Katharine Barton for her academic and athletic success.

LBHS Principal Joanne Culverhouse expressed her pride and said she’s known Barton since she was 5 years old and has watched her grow up. Culverhouse recalled giving Barton numerous reading awards in elementary school and later rewarding her academic achievements at Thurston Middle School.

Barton has a 4.6 GPA and a 2330 SAT score, is an Advanced Placement scholar and won an award in AP Physics.

Besides academic pursuits, Barton earned a place in the National Soccer Championships tournament and is on a crew team.

Barton told the board she is submitting her application to Harvard this week.

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Park ranger acknowledged by board

California State Parks Ranger Winter Bonnin was acknowledged for her contribution to LBUSD learning.

Bonnin has worked at the Crystal Cove State Park for 14 years, longer than any other employee.

Since 1997, Bonnin has hosted field trips at the park and taught the students about wildlife and science.

Staff noted that Bonnin is able to incorporate the state standards in her programs, giving kids the opportunity to learn necessary course work hands-on.

She sees around 500 students a year, staff said, during four to five field trips.

President Theresa O’Hare presented Bonnin with a plaque, commemorating her dedication to teaching second-graders.

“It takes a village … and she is part of our village,” O’Hare said.

joanna.clay@latimes.com

Twitter: @joannaclay