Category: Education

Alder Middle School sixth-grader Xavi Hernandez felt like he was soaring through the air as he sat in a state-of-the-art cockpit simulator inside a mobile 36-foot flight simulator lab located in the middle of his campus.  “It was awesome, really cool and fun to experience,” said Hernandez, who added that he is considering pursuing a career as a pilot. “I liked just flying over the city, I was just taking it all in.” It was part of Fontana Unified School District’s (FUSD) Career Technical Education (CTE) partnership with NextUp Aviation, which brought the world of aviation directly to Alder Middle School students on Nov. 21. The event was designed to help students explore and foster an early interest in diverse career pathways within the aviation and aerospace industry.   Students engaged with flight simulators, interactive booths, and industry leaders from UPS, FedEx, and American Airlines, highlighting career pathways in piloting, drone operation, air traffic control, mechanics, and more throughout the event. NextUp Aviation works to prepare students from all backgrounds for careers in aviation by offering accessible education and training across a variety of fields. “We

California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond met with members of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation today to discuss strategies to block efforts to abolish the U.S. Department of Education. Federal education funds provide $7.9 billion annually to support California’s public schools, including critical programs that support low-income students, students with disabilities, and other underserved populations. Approximately 20 members of the U.S. Congress attended Wednesday’s meeting with Superintendent Thurmond, including Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11) and Rep. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation. During the meeting, delegation members reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to protecting public education and ensuring federal funding remains intact for California’s students. “Eliminating the U.S. Department of Education would have devastating consequences for public education, especially for students with disabilities and families in low-income communities,” said Superintendent Thurmond. “The stakes couldn’t be higher. Every student deserves access to a quality education. It’s our collective responsibility to ensure the protections and resources guaranteed by federal law remain in place. I urge everyone to join this fight and make their voices heard.” Superintendent Thurmond intends to lead a national

When one person’s journey from struggle to triumph creates a ripple effect of transformation, the world takes notice. Kim Carter-Tillman, the visionary founder of Time for Change Foundation, has been recognized with not one, but two honorary Doctorate degrees, one in Divinity and another in Humanities. These accolades underscore her extraordinary contributions to society, her relentless advocacy for justice, and her unwavering dedication to uplifting underserved communities. Kim’s life story is nothing short of remarkable. Once a woman facing hardships like those Time for Change Foundation seeks to address, Kim didn’t just rise above her circumstances—she leveraged her experiences to create a haven for others. The foundation she built has become a beacon of hope for individuals striving to reclaim their lives and achieve self-sufficiency. Her honorary Doctorate in Divinity recognizes the spiritual depth and compassion woven into her work. Kim’s mission has always been rooted in humanity’s shared responsibility to care for one another, fostering an environment where people can heal, grow, and thrive. The Doctorate in Humanities celebrates her tireless advocacy and impact on social reform. Through her leadership, Time for Change Foundation

The West Valley Water District (WVWD) is excited to announce the winners of the 2024 annual poster contest themed, “Being a Water Saver Means”, a call to action for our young water conservation stewards to illustrate and educate others on how we can all do our part to save water. Student winners were recognized at the November 14th Board of Directors Meeting and acknowledged for their award-winning art that will be featured in the 2025 WVWD calendar. “The annual poster contest provides future water stewards throughout WVWD’s service area with the opportunity to showcase their creativity and their knowledge of the importance of saving water,” said Vice President Dan Jenkins. “On behalf of the Board, thank you to every student who took the time to participate in this year’s contest and congratulations to the featured winners.” Over 200 hand-drawn posters were submitted by local students in the WVWD service area, that depicted what it means to be a water saver. WVWD staff voted and judged the posters on their expression of the theme, neatness, and creativity. “The annual poster contest is an exciting opportunity to

The Colton Joint Unified School District Adult Education’s latest batch of high school diploma recipients, GED recipients and certified nursing assistant program completers celebrated their accomplishments at a district Board of Education meeting recently.  The program has produced 20 graduates from its diploma and GED programs and 8 students have completed its certified nurse assistant program since its last graduation in April. The program also received full WASC accreditation, meaning that its diplomas are recognized worldwide by universities, colleges, the military and employers.  Graduates who attended the celebration talked with hope about the future and the meaning of their accomplishments.  “Each step we take today leads to the foundation of our future. By pursuing an education, I’m not just setting an example for myself, but also for my children,” said Yuri Galindo, who previously earned her GED through the program and was recognized at the ceremony for completing her coursework to become a certified nurse assistant. “I want them to see that hard work and determination can lead to success, no matter what the obstacles we face.”  The mission of the CJUSD Adult Education Program

The Colton Joint Unified School District Board of Education accepted a $150,000 grant at a recent meeting to help students with disabilities transition from school to work, independent living and post-secondary education or training.  The grant is part of annual funding from the California Department of Education, which initiated the program more than 40 years ago as a way to provide students with the opportunity to complete their secondary education while also obtaining marketable job skills as well as understanding of the job-seeking process.  “This program truly changes lives,” said CJUSD Curriculum Program Specialist Lisa Lennox, whose longtime hairdresser enrolled in WorkAbility while a student of hers in high school, was placed in a job at a beauty supply store and eventually attended beauty school with the assistance of state funding.  “This isn’t just about helping students learn about themselves to get them a job, this is about helping them craft and prepare for their future.” During the 2023-24 school year, CJUSD’s WorkAbility I Program provided pre-employment skills training to 351 students in high school and helped 87 students by either providing subsidized wages for

Thousands gathered at Carter High School on October 26th for the 17th Annual Rialto Unified School District Family Summit, an event themed “Roots and Dreams” that united students, families, and educators for a day of inspiration and community celebration. The summit featured a college and career fair, informative booths, and engaging activities, all underscoring the Rialto community’s commitment to growth and educational aspirations. Jim Rodriguez, an Eisenhower High School alum and now a respected editor and reporter for KCAL/KCBS, served as the event’s keynote speaker. In a memorable moment, Rodriguez surprised Simpson Elementary School fourth-grader Kaylyn Colvin with a gift card after she correctly answered a question during his address, embodying the day’s theme by celebrating young scholars and their potential. This year’s theme—‘Raíces y Sueños’ or ‘Roots and Dreams’—honored the strong community roots and collective dreams the district is nurturing through education. The summit’s vibrant atmosphere reflected these values, with hundreds of families, students, and educators connecting to build on shared hopes for future success. Continue Reading

The Colton Joint Unified School District (CJUSD) held its Community Cabinet event on October 23, bringing together district leaders, students, and community members in a compelling showcase of student perspectives and the district’s vision for equity in education. The event, focused on transparency and inclusivity, highlighted the findings from a series of student voice interviews, exposing challenges, aspirations, and crucial insights from the district’s diverse student body. CJUSD Superintendent Dr. Frank Miranda underscored the district’s commitment to equity, achievement, and wellness in addressing students’ evolving needs. “We are doing a lot of work in terms of equity, achievement, and wellness,” said Dr. Miranda. “We are working to ensure our students get the best education possible in our district, and we are doing this together.” Dr. Miranda’s remarks acknowledged the challenges of providing a high-caliber education to a vast population, referencing the Inland region’s significant student body. “There are about 1 million students in the Inland regions alone out of 5.9 million statewide,” he said, recognizing the CJUSD’s share in this educational responsibility. With ambitious goals set for the 2024-25 academic year — a 10% increase

Distinguished Rialto Unified School District teachers Catherine Sanchez and Laurie Fiscella were among 15 individuals and groups honored at the annual Rialto Democratic Club’s Who’s Who Awards Dinner on October 17 at the Grace Vargas Senior Center. This year’s awards ceremony, which was themed “United We Stand,” celebrated outstanding leaders in education, public service, and community engagement. Sanchez, a Wilmer Amina Carter High School science teacher, received the 2024 “Excellence in Education” award. With over 26 years of experience, including 20 years in the RUSD, Sanchez is recognized for her dedication to students’ success in STEM. Sanchez’s tenure in the RUSD also included teaching at Ben F. Kolb Middle School from 2005 to 2016. Her extensive work in the Mathematics, Engineering, and Science Achievement (MESA) program has led her students to excel in District, County, and international competitions. A three-time “MESA High School of the Year” award recipient, Sanchez has fostered strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, alike. Reflecting on her award, Sanchez shared, “This recognition is a humbling reflection of my commitment to making science and engineering come alive for my students. Each

In a spirited display of community and educational support, students, educators, and local officials gathered at Kelley Elementary School last week for Think Together’s “Lights On Afterschool” event. The celebration highlighted the critical role of afterschool programs through a dynamic literacy and numeracy carnival, where students practiced reading and math skills in a lively, supportive environment. Special guests included field representatives from the offices of Senator Rosilicie Ochoa-Bogh and Assemblymember James C. Ramos, as well as Rialto Unified Superintendent Dr. Ed D’Souza, school board member Evelyn Dominguez, and Kelley Elementary Principal Aldo Velasco. Think Together’s Founder and CEO Randy Barth, alongside regional program leaders, also joined to celebrate the impact of expanded learning programs on Rialto’s youth. Guests engaged with students at interactive booths, participating in skill-building games such as “Sight Word Swap,” “Number Tower,” and “Hammer Head Number Hunt.” Principal Velasco praised the event, noting, “Think Together’s involvement strengthens our school and our community, providing essential resources that help shape our students’ futures.” Think Together received certificates of recognition from both the offices of Senator Ochoa-Bogh and Assemblymember Ramos, honoring the organization’s dedication to