Río Hondo College is celebrating its 2020 graduating class on Tuesday, May 26 and Wednesday, May 27 with a drive-through distribution of “Grad Care Packages” that include traditional graduation gear along with some surprises. The events are being held in lieu of the College’s traditional ceremonies because of COVID-19 concerns and are following the same safety guidelines used for the College’s drive-through food pantry. This is Río Hondo College’s 57th annual Commencement.
Summit High School senior Nicole Quinonez-Frias’ raw and emotional approach to highlighting cultural stigmas around depression and suicide, captured in a 60-second film, has earned statewide recognition as a category winner in the Directing Change Program and Film Contest. Quinonez-Frias’ film captured first place in the Through the Lens of Culture – Suicide Prevention category. As a statewide winner, she will receive a $1,000 prize. She is the first Summit High TV Production student to win an event in the competition.
Río Hondo College has received $15,000 in gifts from community groups for its Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) Program, which helps provide educational support services and activities for academically under-prepared, welfare-dependent, single parents. CARE students are part of EOP&S, which serves more than 1,600 students at Río Hondo College. The gifts, presented May 22 to Río Hondo College Superintendent/President Dr. Arturo Reyes, EOP&S/CARE Director Heba Griffiths, and CARE Specialist Laura Verdugo, include $5,000 from Soroptimist International of Whittier and $10,000 from Credit Union of Southern California.
West Covina Unified Elementary Joins No Excuses University Network
West Covina Unified’s Vine Elementary has been recognized as a No Excuses University (NEU) school, joining a national network of schools that foster a college-ready mindset. As a NEU school, Vine students will become familiar with various colleges and universities – and learn about what it takes to pursue higher education – through engaging activities and practices.
Baldwin Park Unified students will benefit from new air conditioning systems, restored sports fields, new school marquees and safer infrastructure as the District completes Measure K-funded projects targeting safety, long-term needs and current needs. These upgrades are the last items to be funded by Measure K, a bond measure approved by BPUSD voters in 2006, to improve school safety and security, as well as enhance learning and athletic facilities.
Paramount High School Leaves Lights on for Class of 2020
Paramount High School is honoring its Class of 2020 and lighting up its stadium and scoreboard at 8:20 p.m. (20:20) for 20 minutes every night through June 5. This gesture is part of Paramount Unified’s wider campaign to celebrate the Class of 2020.
Monrovia Unified Celebrates Scholars During Virtual Monrovia Days
Monrovia Unified School District’s celebrated its scholars with a montage video of the 2019-20 school year during Virtual Monrovia Days on May 16. The video showcased the programs and events that happened throughout the school year including theater and musical performances, coding and robotic showcases, and athletic achievements.
Baldwin Park Unified Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month
As communities across the state continue to shelter at home, practice social distancing and do their part to limit the spread of COVID-19, BPUSD is encouraging the community to look after mental and emotional health. Baldwin Park Unified celebrates May as Mental Health Month to provide the community an opportunity to discuss mental health challenges and to offer information, resources and support to students and families.
Fontana Unified Seniors Earns Scholarships for Overcoming Challenges
Five Fontana Unified seniors received Accepting the Challenge of Excellence (ACE) awards from the Exchange Club of Fontana. The award comes with a $500 scholarship and recognizes students who have made impressive changes in their outlook and academic performance, enabling them to overcome adversities and prepare for graduation.
West Covina Unified to Offer Online Summer School for High School Students
West Covina Unified School District will partner with Options for Youth, a network of public charter schools, to provide an online summer school program for Edgewood and West Covina high schools at no cost. The summer school term will run from Wednesday, July 1 to Friday, August 7. Courses can be accessed through students’ school-issued or personal devices with an internet connection. The research-based curriculum is designed to engage students through the use of media-rich, interactive learning experiences. All courses are a-g compliant and aligned to the California state standards.
