When Agatha Sosa arrived at Bonita High School as a freshman, she was too nervous to speak publicly. Offered an opportunity to join a five-week leadership program that would boost her confidence and place her on a pathway to success in college and career, Sosa said she doubted that she could learn so much in so short a time. One year later, Sosa has been recognized as a Kollab Youth 2026 Youth of the Year after joining the organization’s Workforce Development Program, w where she progressed rapidly, received mentorship from industry experts, and earned a spot on Kollab Youth’s Teen Leadership Council.
Hacienda La Puente Unified School District (HLPUSD) celebrated the grand opening of William Workman High School’s Sports Complex on March 19, marking a transformative investment that provides students and the community with a long-awaited home for athletics, school traditions, and shared community experiences. The ribbon-cutting ceremony welcomed elected officials and representatives, students, staff, families, alumni, and future Lobos to be among the first to step onto the new sports fields, score the honorary first soccer goals and football touchdowns, and practice their athletic skills. Workman senior and Associated Student Body treasurer Carlos Ayala said he looks forward to attending the home baseball games and cheering on the team.
Santa Fe High School students will experience a powerful reminder of the real-life consequences of impaired driving through the “Every 15 Minutes” program, a two-day event featuring a simulated crash, coordinated emergency response and student-led dramatizations. The program will culminate in a mock funeral, underscoring the lasting impact of driving under the influence.
Since 2020, Upland Unified School District has offered Wednesday Webinars, a virtual series designed to connect families with District staff, provide practical tools to support student learning and well-being, and strengthen the partnership between home and school. Held on Wednesday evenings to accommodate family schedules, the program has grown into a key resource for Upland Unified families. The webinar series was launched during the COVID-19 shutdown to maintain communication and offer additional support to families. Topics are guided by family feedback and District priorities, with families invited each spring to suggest subjects for the coming school year. Prior topics covered include financial literacy, identifying students’ need for mental health services, and preparing for the challenges and opportunities of AI. Sessions typically feature presentations from District educators or administrators, along with opportunities for attendees to ask questions and share feedback. Past webinars have also featured community partner guest speakers such as the Upland Police Department, Inland Empire Health Plan, and CALKids. Spanish-language translation services are available upon request.
The El Monte Union High School District Board of Trustees has approved a settlement agreement with the California Department of Justice Office of the Attorney General, reinforcing the District’s commitment to student safety through strengthened oversight and enhanced protocols. Approved during a March 18 special meeting, the agreement establishes enhanced protocols and comprehensive procedures for addressing allegations of bullying, harassment and abuse. It took effect March 20 and includes a four-year monitoring period to strengthen related systems.
The Fontana School Police Department (FSPD) will host the School Resource Officer Association of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties meeting, bringing together regional law enforcement and school safety partners to strengthen collaboration and coordinate proactive safety efforts across local schools.
The association brings together representatives from a variety of local law enforcement agencies and school safety organizations to discuss topics including current safety trends on school campuses, how to enhance collaboration between school sites and law enforcement, and best practices aimed at strengthening student safety and well-being.
The Covina-Valley Unified School District Board of Education unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. Jonathan Blackmore as Superintendent at a special Board meeting on March 19. Blackmore, who has served as Interim Superintendent since July 7, 2025, will continue leading the District with a strong dedication to students, families, and the Covina-Valley Unified community. Blackmore said his commitment to clear and transparent communication, collaboration, and student success will serve as cornerstones of his leadership.
Victor Valley College (VVC) President Dr. Dan Walden credits Caring Campus and the Caring Campus Academy (CCA) with helping transform the college’s culture and fueling its emergence as the fastest growing college in California. The CCA offers tailored sessions for higher education staff, faculty, and administrators to learn about the Caring Campus behaviors designed to strengthen student belonging and success, whether for new hires first learning about Caring Campus or seasoned professionals seeking fresh ideas and strategies.
Upland High School’s (UHS) dedication to expanding opportunity and supporting student success has earned the campus recognition as a 2026 California Distinguished School, a prestigious honor achieved through implementing programs and initiatives that help close the achievement gap for historically underserved student groups. The recognition reflects UHS’ commitment to creating opportunities for all students through strong academic programs, targeted student support, and a culture that emphasizes high expectations and meaningful connections.
The Bonita Unified ProStart Culinary program made history once again when the San Dimas High School culinary team was crowned the California ProStart Cup champion for the second consecutive year, giving the student chefs an opportunity to defend their title at the National ProStart Invitational, to be held in Baltimore in April. San Dimas High School is the first back-to-back California ProStart Cup champion since 2010-11. Following closely behind in second place was 2024 California ProStart Cup champion Bonita High School, giving the District its first-ever one-two placement at the Cup, adding another successful chapter in the District’s storied history in the competition. For the third consecutive year, Bonita Unified will represent California in one of the country’s most popular and challenging amateur culinary competitions.
