SAN DIMAS/LA VERNE – Cheers and confetti filled the Bonita Center for the Arts as nearly 100 family members, teachers and staff gathered to celebrate Bonita Unified English Learners (EL) who passed their English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC) exams during a Districtwide ceremony on April 16.

A total of 27 students were recognized during the ceremony, taking the stage to applause as they were honored for developing English proficiency and becoming eligible to be Reclassified Fluent English Proficient (RFEP). The students, who join a group of 81 reclassified ELs who were honored in the fall, received medals, certificates, and goody bags during the ceremony.

“This is why we do this, to see students smiling with their families and being celebrated,” said Reuben Jones, Senior Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction. “We want to recognize that they’re not just English learners, they’re multilingual learners, and that’s something to be proud of.”

Lone Hill Middle School sixth-grader Walter Chavez said earning reclassification holds special meaning for his family, especially as one of the few in his household fluent in English.

“It feels really nice, especially since most of my family speaks Spanish and I’m one of five who knows English,” Chavez said. “Now, I can help my grandma and my cousins learn as well, and that means a lot to me. My teachers helped me read more English books and my family cheered me on, and I just want to thank them for all their support.”

Bonita Unified hosts more than 500 English learners, representing over 22 languages. To be considered for reclassification, students must meet ELPAC and District standards in speaking, reading, writing, and listening, demonstrating proficiency across all areas of language development. The District continues to reclassify more than 20% of its EL students each year.

The ceremony has grown from smaller gatherings at the District office into a larger Districtwide celebration at the Bonita Center for the Arts, drawing more families and staff together to recognize student achievement as larger groups of students reclassify each semester.

“Our students have shown tremendous dedication in reaching this milestone, and their success is a direct reflection of their hard work and determination,” Superintendent Matt Wien said. “At the same time, it speaks to the strong support systems around them, from teachers to families, who continue to encourage and guide them. Together, they are building a foundation for long-term success both in and beyond the classroom.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS

BUSD_EL_RECLASSIFICATION1: Confetti streams through the air as Bonita Unified students celebrate their English Learner Reclassification during a Districtwide ceremony at the Bonita Center for the Arts on April 16, where families, teachers, and staff gathered to recognize their achievement.

BUSD_EL_RECLASSIFICATION2: San Dimas High School principal Omar Mayen celebrates with student Emilia Khoudary, who has been Reclassified Fluent English Proficient (RFEP), during a ceremony on April 16.