"I was a teacher's aid first for special education then I got my credential at UCSB which allowed me to teach art. I taught art at Righetti and Santa Maria. I was the yearbook advisor at Santa Maria and the journalism advisor at Righetti at the same time. I would drive during lunch to go to both schools. I became full time at Righetti in the late 80's. Then I had art, journalism, and was the cheer advisor. I was the cheer advisor for over 20 years there and I was 8 years as activities director. When it was time to open up Pioneer Valley my mentor and former art teacher who I got to work with suggested that I need a new challenge and to move over here and build a new art department so that what I did. I was one of the founding teachers of the school and was the first and only art teacher at the time. I also started the cheer program at the same time. Now I’m here helping out using my activities director experience, student government experience, and leadership skills. It’s a nice change being an activities director here at Pioneer Valley. You get to be a part of the planning and building of things. You get to be behind the scenes, set everything up and can also help and nurture the kids from start to finish. I just make sure everything runs smooth and they get their job done and do it well. If it works and when it works well then the students will get the compliments and that’s what it’s all about. It’s not about me it’s about the students and them learning how to do things and how to organize, because it’s a new generation.” –Ms. Starowicz (pictured above left, slightly outdated)

“School has been very different since she’s been out sick. We miss her laughter, her spunk, and her accent. We’re so glad that God has given her another outlook on life. We’re excited for the days she comes back in March and can’t wait.” –Monica Raygoza