California Distinguished School National Blue Ribbon School

3 Lemongrass, Irvine, California 92604 Ph 949 936-6100 Fax 949 936-6109 Gina Cuneo, Principal Jeff Morano, Assistant Principal

To Whom it May Concern:

April 2014

Amazing musician, exemplary teacher, quintessential team player, warm and unflappable, highly organized; these are just a few descriptors of Mario Jativa. Mario came to Lakeside two years ago when our esteemed and popular music teacher took a leave of absence. We would have been thrilled had Mario simply maintained the outstanding music program he inherited and held parent complaints at bay. But what he accomplished in his two years here is just short of incredible. Directing a music program consisting of two bands, jazz band, two string orchestras and a chorus, Mario successfully supervised 250 students in an unbelievable music program that he actually elevated by the sheer force of his work ethic and skill set. Producing and conducting three concerts annually for each ensemble seemed like childs play in his capable hands. Coordinating our annual talent show for both parent and student audiences and serving as manager and stage manager for IUSDs Honors Concert at the renowned Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts were among his other achievements. Although new to the middle school music arena, his groups received Unanimous Superior, the highest honor possible, both years in our districts highly competitive adjudicated festival. At any school, and especially middle school, the relationships that a teacher creates with students, parents and staff cannot be overstated. When you meet Mario, you will immediately understand how and why he created and maintained such strong relationships with all of Lakesides stakeholders. He is gentle, kindspirited and he always works to do whats best for the kids and the school community. He has an amazing stage presence and he literally has captivated the hearts of our parents, students and staff. Additionally, Mario also has worked closely with Special Education staff to ensure that students with developmental disabilities were fully included in his program and had rewarding experiences while being mainstreamed in his classes. As if the accolades above are not enough, Mario is extremely organized, highly efficient, and very proactive. He revamped our performing arts building, cleaning, organizing and creating systems for instrument check-out. He wrote several successful music grants for much-needed music supplies, instrument repair and instrument replacement. He collaborated effectively via our district-wide PLC model with other instrumental and choral teachers in the district. And he did it all with a smile on his face and the ability to remain calm in any situation, no matter how stressful. In short, Mario is one of the finest teachers I have had the honor to work with in my 34 years as an educator. I am devastated that he cannot return next year, due to the fact that the teacher who was on leave is returning to Lakeside. I am confident that you will find no better candidate for your music position, and I am equally confident that your staff will thank you if you do hire him. Please do not hesitate to call me if you have any questions about this incredible young man. Our loss will be your gain. Sincerely, Gina Cuneo Principal Lakeside Middle School Direct Line (949) 936-6105 Cell (949) 751-9228