El Monte Union High School District and Rosemead High School have been recognized among the top three favorite school districts and public high schools in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune (SGVT) Readers' Choice Awards, an achievement that reflects the District’s unwavering commitment to success and dedication of all students, teachers, staff and parents. The SGVT Readers' Choice Awards celebrate excellence in education across the San Gabriel Valley region, and acknowledge institutions that have demonstrated extraordinary academic programs, innovative teaching practices and a profound impact on the lives of students.
Ahead of the 2023-24 school year, the Whittier Union High School District Board of Trustees has taken significant steps in prioritizing student wellness and educational inclusivity by unanimously approving a Land Use Acknowledgement policy and an Alcohol and Other Drugs policy during its June 13 Board meeting. The newly adopted Land Use Acknowledgement policy actively recognizes the rich history, art and culture of Native Americans. The policy is slated to be integrated into the District’s comprehensive Ethnic Studies curriculum, and will also be read at various District and school-specific events. The Board also approved a revised Alcohol, Marijuana and Other Drugs policy, which updates District protocols for addressing alcohol and drug-related activities, acknowledging the detrimental effects that issues related to drug use have on the District community. The policy emphasizes the development of comprehensive intervention programs and restorative activities that promote safe, healthy environments free from alcohol, marijuana and other drugs.
Fontana Unified School District is rolling out the welcome mat for two veteran administrators who have joined the superintendent’s cabinet, bringing decades of experience in business, finance, education and fostering student achievement. Dr. Leslie Barnes, with 28 years of experience in business administration and finances, has been appointed the new Associate Superintendent of Business Services. She is joined on the cabinet by Dr. Jennifer Bourgeois, a proven leader and educator who will serve as the new Associate Superintendent of Teaching and Learning.
Bonita Unified has been recognized as the San Gabriel Valley’s Favorite School District and San Dimas High School was voted Favorite Public High School in the Inland Valley, according to the Southern California News Group’s 2023 Readers Choice Awards. This is the second consecutive year Bonita Unified has been recognized in the annual readers’ poll. The 2022-23 school year brought many accolades and memorable moments throughout Bonita Unified, including National Blue Ribbon School and California Distinguished School awards, a No. 1 ranking on the California Reading Coalition’s California Reading Report Card, Bonita High’s first-ever Edison and National Merit scholarship recipients and more.
Lynwood Unified Students Honored With Student Success Scholarships
Twenty Lynwood Unified students were honored with the Every Student Succeeding Award Scholarship for prevailing against all odds and winning the hearts of the educators who helped them achieve their goals. The scholarships were presented by the Lynwood Association of School Administrators, who honored the students with a scholarship check and award certificate during a special ceremony on May 24. The scholarships reward students who have made a concerted effort to succeed and overcome obstacles such as returning to school, leaving behind negative influences, improving attendance or behaviors, or overcoming other barriers.
El Monte Union Retiring Employees Recognized for Years of Service
El Monte Union High School District (EMUHSD) recognized ten certificated employees and 16 classified employees who retired at the end of the 2022-23 school year after many outstanding years of service with the District. The District held a retirement celebration at El Sombrero Restaurant in May, where those in attendance were recognized for their dedication to students and the District. The event featured food, speeches and the presentation of special honoree clock awards, symbolizing their impactful service to the District. The EMUHSD Board of Trustees also recognized all retiring employees and thanked them for their contributions during a Board meeting on June 14.
Baldwin Park Think Together Students to Attend Angel-White Sox Game
Baldwin Park Unified students in Think Together’s elementary and middle school summer program will enjoy a day at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on Thursday, June 29 to cheer on the Angels as they play against the Chicago White Sox, while a lucky BPUSD student will be selected to announce the start of the game. More than 700 Baldwin Park Unified students will attend the baseball game as part of the Think Together summer program, which aims to keep students engaged and having fun.
The Río Hondo College Foundation’s signature fundraising gala, “A Taste of Río,” dazzled guests with an impressive array of artisan cuisine, craft beer and wines, exquisite gift baskets and lively entertainment. This year’s event, held June 9, brought in the highest amount in the history of the fundraiser, raising more than $107,603 for scholarships and student support services. “A Taste of Río” hosted more than 350 patrons, who noshed on freshly prepared culinary delights and curated spirits provided by nearly two dozen local vendors.
Lynwood Unified School District brought another year of success to a close during ceremonies that recognized nearly 900 high school students for their perseverance and academic excellence as they crossed the graduation stage to receive their diplomas. The District, which live-streamed the ceremonies, celebrated 186 graduates from Vista High School and Pathway Independent Study on June 12, 302 seniors from Firebaugh High School on June 13 and 389 scholars from Lynwood High School on June 14. Graduates plan on attending such colleges and universities as Stanford, UCLA, UC Berkeley, Long Beach City College, Cerritos College and more, with others attending private universities, trade schools or enlisting in the armed forces.
Whittier Union Adult School English as a Second Language (ESL) students are enhancing their technological skills and advancing their workforce literacy through the integration of career technical education (CTE) curriculum into the ESL program. The successful integration has earned the Adult School the Promising Practice Award in Adult Education from the California Department of Education and the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems (CASAS). Schools can self-nominate for the Promising Practice Award through CASAS by showcasing their innovative programs, practices or ideas that support students in achieving their goals and preparing them for the workforce. By integrating CTE curriculum into the ESL program, the Adult School has successfully achieved its goal of enhancing literacy among ESL students and equipping them with the skills necessary to pursue successful careers upon graduation.
