UPLAND – Upland Unified School District proudly honored outstanding families from across the District during its eighth annual Family Leadership Recognition Night on April 15. The event celebrated families who generously volunteer their time, lend their talents, and contribute meaningfully to their school communities and the District as a whole.

A total of 33 individuals were recognized this year, including two people from each school, four selected at the District level, and, for the first time, one person personally selected by Superintendent Dr. Lynn Carmen Day.

The evening began with a dinner for honorees and their guests, followed by a heartfelt program in which school principals presented awards and highlighted the unique contributions and lasting impact of those selected. From organizing events to supporting classroom initiatives and fostering school spirit, award recipients were recognized for helping strengthen the connection between home and school.

“Family engagement is a cornerstone of student success,” Carmen Day said. “We are deeply grateful for the families who go above and beyond in service to our schools. Their dedication, generosity, and partnership help support our mission of Creating Excellence for All and foster the supportive and engaging environments our students need to reach their full potential.”

Since 2019, the District has hosted Family Leadership Recognition Night as a unified celebration of family involvement, bringing together school communities to highlight the vital role families play in education. Prior to that, recognition efforts were coordinated at individual school sites.

Nohemi Cruz, a mother of three students in Upland Unified, received District-level recognition for serving as the vice president of the District English Learner Advisory Committee.

“I was really honored to be considered for this recognition because it shows that the District cares about parents’ opinions and sees how important community engagement is,” Cruz said.

District leaders emphasized that while not every contributing family can be formally recognized, the event serves as an important expression of appreciation and reinforces the value of ongoing collaboration between families and schools.

“By honoring families, Upland Unified reaffirms its commitment to building strong partnerships that support student achievement and foster a sense of belonging across all schools,” Carmen Day said.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

UUSD_FamilyRecognition1: Upland Unified Literacy and English Learner District Coordinator Roxanne Rubert (right) presents an award to Nohemi Cruz (left) in recognition of her service on the District English Learner Advisory Committee.

UUSD_FamilyRecognition2: Superintendent Dr. Carmen Day recognizes Tommy Brooks as an “Engaged Parent Leader” at the District’s eighth annual Family Leadership Recognition Night. This year marks the first time the Superintendent personally selected an award recipient for their service at the District level.