CITY OF INDUSTRY – Hacienda La Puente Unified School District showcased the vast accomplishments of its students, staff and District, while highlighting the importance of teamwork, collaboration and community, during its ninth annual State of the District event on Jan. 18.

The event included an exciting presentation of colors led by the District’s Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadets and La Puente High School Student Board Representative Josiah Hernandez commenced the event by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez then led a comprehensive presentation packed with animations and lively photos highlighting the past year’s accomplishments in front of a high-spirited crowd of distinguished guests, Hacienda La Puente Unified’s Board of Education, administrators, staff and community members.

“I look forward to this event each year because of its ability to support and strengthen our team as we reflect and share our achievements with not only each other but with the greater community,” Board President Christine H. Salazar said. “No matter what role you have in our District, whether it be a student, parent, teacher, staff, faculty, or community member – you are HLPUSD and we are proud to have you. Thank you for all your tremendous hard work and we look forward to another year of success in 2024.”

Throughout the presentation, Jiménez shared an abundance of academic achievements and awards bestowed upon various administrators and school sites, including receiving four National Blue Ribbon School Awards by the California Department of Education and winning the California School Board Association Golden Bell Award for its real-world civic action program, Project Life Experiences About Democracy (LEAD).

Jiménez also provided updates regarding the District’s fiscal stability, Measure BB master plan and the progress and completion of numerous facilities projects, such as the Family Engage and Equity and Access building. The new building serves not only as the new home for staff, but doubles as a community hub and safe space for students, staff and families to visit for resources and support.

“This was my first time attending the State of the District and all I can say is wow – what an amazing experience and fantastic way to jumpstart 2024,” Assistant Superintendent of Education Services, Dr. Rosa Isiah said. “The amount of dedication, time and heart that went into this event was evident and a testament to the teamwork and pride thriving within our District, not to mention the immense support and presence from our education and administration teams.”

The District’s 2023-24 theme, “Engage, Experience, Connect: Deep Learning Every Day,” was discussed throughout the presentation, emphasizing the innovative experiences available for all students. Jiménez concluded his presentation with a list of new and expanding programs and community partnerships coming to the District in 2024 and beyond. District students and families can expect various aviation opportunities, expansion of the arts and ethnic studies curriculum and more.

To conclude the event, HLPUSD premiered its 2024 showcase video titled “Partners in Community,” which aimed to recognize the employees and dedicated staff that make Hacienda La Puente Unified the perfect educational choice for students, employees and families to thrive.

“I would like to thank our Board of Education, teachers, staff and administrators for their dedication to our students and our parents and the HLPUSD community for your continued partnership and support,” Jiménez said. “As we saw in our showcase video, our District would not be successful without the hard work of each and every one of you. Over the last year, we have seen immense growth and achievements and we have a lot to look forward to this year. We are partners in community, and we are proud to be HLPUSD.”

The event was recorded for added convenience and is available on the HLPUSD YouTube channel.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

HLPUSD_STATEOFTHEDISTRICT1: La Puente High School Student Board Representative Josiah Hernandez is welcomed by Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez before leading the District in the Pledge of Allegiance during the State of the District evening presentation on Jan. 18.

HLPUSD_STATEOFTHEDISTRICT2: From left to right: Hacienda La Puente Unified School District Board of Education member Jeffrey De La Torre, Board Vice President Nancy Loera, Board President Christine H. Salazar, Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez and Board Clerk Gino Kwok, Esq. celebrate the success of the 2024 State of the District on Jan. 18.

HLPUSD_STATEOFTHEDISTRICT3: Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez welcomes distinguished guests and executive cabinet members to a breakfast where he provided an in-depth presentation during the State of the District event on Jan. 18.