CITY OF INDUSTRY – A myriad of Hacienda La Puente Unified faculty, educational partners and esteemed colleagues gathered to honor outgoing Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Dr. Judy Fancher for her vast contributions over the past 10 years and wish her well as she transitions into a new phase of her life during a surprise retirement celebration on June 14.

Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez and Fancher’s Administrative Assistant Maria Ponce played integral roles in organizing the event, which remained a secret despite the invitation being sent to over 100 individuals. During the event, Fancher shockingly exclaimed as attendees greeted her with a standing ovation and applause as she entered the Parisian-decorated Board room and appeared increasingly moved as she recognized esteemed supporters from every stage of her career.

“Dr. Fancher has been a beloved and exceptional leader of Hacienda La Puente Unified and will be tremendously missed by HLPUSD and the entire education community,” Board President Christine H. Salazar said. “Dr. Fancher advocated for the success of every student by pushing forward innovative programs. through her remarkable leadership skills, the ability to create strong relationships and the passion for seeking ways to acknowledge and support her team, she has made an everlasting mark here. On behalf of the Board of Education, it was an honor to return the favor and recognize all her extraordinary accomplishments. Thank you for everything, Judy.”

Before her 10 years at HLPUSD, Fancher served as the principal at Sunny Hills High School. She also held the position of Director of Educational and Assessment Services for Fullerton Joint Union High School District and dedicated 13 years to teaching English at the secondary level.

Fancher received her Bachelor of Arts in English and a teaching credential from the University of La Verne, California, a Master of Arts in English from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona and earned a Doctorate of Education, Organizational Leadership Administration Credential Tier II from the University of Southern California, where she developed strategies to create equity, foster continuous organizational improvements and lead instructional change in K-12 urban communities.

She applied these learnings throughout her career at HLPUSD, supporting the implementation and progress of countless innovative programs, career technical education pathways and educational partnerships. Some of these efforts include implementing New Pedagogies for Deep Learning; the UC Davis C-STEM program; Intersectional Ethnic Studies at all grade levels; Speech and Debate; expanding C-STEM and Visual and Performing Arts programs across campuses and much more.

“Dr. Fancher, you have been a key component in the success of our District for the past 10 years and so many of us have benefited from your exceptional leadership, kindness, professionalism and knowledge,” Jiménez said during the ceremony. “The entire Hacienda La Puente Unified School District is a better place because of you. Thank you for everything and enjoy your well-earned retirement.”

The event concluded with a light-hearted movie consisting of a slideshow of photographs throughout Fancher’s profession, video messages from friends, family and colleagues sending well-wishes and a compilation of hilarious dance moves to celebrate the end of her career.

“I still cannot put into words the amount of love and support I felt walking into that Board room,” Fancher said. “I am so grateful for everyone who took part in planning the event, including all those who sent me a virtual video message and traveled near and far to be there to surprise me in person. When I fondly reflect on my time here, I will remember my friendships, partnerships and, of course – the students and families that make up this remarkable school District. Thank you for giving me the outstanding privilege of being your Assistant Superintendent. As always, I am proud to be HLPUSD.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

HLPUSD_FANCHER1: Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Dr. Judy Fancher receives numerous certificates of achievement from distinguished guests and District organizations during her retirement celebration on June 14.

HLPUSD_FANCHER2: Fancher and son Max watch a video compilation of well-wishes from friends, family and colleagues, concluding with an emotionally stirring candid clip from Fancher imparting wisdom and sharing her hopes for the future of education and HLPUSD.

HLPUSD_FANCHER3: Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez opens the celebration by welcoming guests and thanking Fancher for her 36 years of service and excellence in education.

HLPUSD_FACHER4: Long-time friends and colleagues (left) Ellizabeth Castro and Cara Miller Chavez (right) excitedly embrace Fancher as enters the room during a surprise celebration on June 14.