Category: Education

Thomas Torrence, a dedicated and beloved employee of the Rialto Unified School District for over four decades, passed away on May 15, 2024, at the age of 86. He is now reunited in heaven with his late wife, Julie Torrence, who preceded him in death on June 20, 2018. The couple, formerly of Cherry Valley, are remembered fondly by family, friends, and colleagues. Mr. Torrence’s remarkable career with the Rialto Unified School District began in 1958 when he joined as a temporary summer painter. His commitment and hard work led him to rise through the ranks, ultimately retiring as the Maintenance and Operations Manager after 41 years of dedicated service. According to his family, Mr. Torrence was “a generous man beyond words, had a servant’s heart, and was able to help so many. He will be truly missed.” Born in New Castle, Indiana, Thomas was the eldest child of Cecil and Dorothy Mae Torrence. At the age of 15, he moved with his family to San Bernardino, California. Throughout his life, he remained closely connected to his community and family. He is survived by his

Crafton Hills College (CHC) has received a $15,000 grant from Bank of America to support its Training First Responders project and Crafton Roadrunners pursuing degrees or certificates in public safety and allied health programs. “The funding from Bank of America will help reduce financial burdens for many of our students so they can focus on their studies and achieve their academic and professional goals without the worry of how much the program will cost,” said CHC President Kevin Horan. “We are deeply grateful for Bank of America’s commitment to education and their investments in our community.” CHC’s Training First Responders project aims to provide financial support to students studying to become paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), firefighters and members of other emergency health professions. Every academic year, hundreds of students apply for admission to CHC’s first-responder programs. Many experience financial challenges that might prevent them from completing coursework requirements. Grants from the private sector help cover a myriad of expenses, such as the cost of course materials and fees for state testing, licensing, and certifications. “One of the biggest challenges to the economic future of

The San Bernardino Community College District has welcomed Dr. Cherina Betters to its Board of Trustees. Dr. Betters was sworn in on July 11 after being appointed by the board on June 13. She will represent Area 7, which includes Highland, Lake Arrowhead, surrounding mountain communities, and neighborhoods around the San Bernardino International Airport. Dr. Betters succeeds Dr. Anne Viricel, who served on the board for nine years until June 30. Her appointment is to complete the term vacated by Dr. Viricel, with the seat up for election on the November 5, 2024, ballot. Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh, who recognized Dr. Betters as the 2021 Woman of the Year in California’s 23rd Senate District, conducted the oath of office. The trustees oversee the educational mission and set policy for the district, which serves nearly 20,000 students through Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Valley College, KVCR Public Media, and the Economic Development & Corporate Training Center. Since 2020, Dr. Betters has been the Chief of Equity and Access at the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, where she created the Student Voice Advisory Council. This initiative

On June 29, about 40 students from Colton High School’s Yellowjacket Band gathered around Band Director Aron Campbell to kick off the new season with a fundraising event. With the school year approaching, the band members organized a car wash to raise funds for essential musical equipment and supplies. “The costs of operating a band are high,” said Campbell. “Our students and their parents have to chip in and help with raising money so that we can have a successful season.” The summer car wash proved to be a simple, enjoyable, and effective way to raise money and increase awareness of the band program. “We wanted to raise money for the band program,” said Brenda Uriarte, a volunteer parent and President of the Band Boosters. Uriarte, along with other parents, helped organize the students into groups to efficiently handle the car wash process. The event saw participation from both upperclassmen and new members, fostering teamwork and camaraderie. Over 120 cars visited the car wash at Hubbs Gym, including a notable appearance by Dr. G, the former Band Director and current City Council Member, who brought

Kaiser Permanente generously awarded 14 Career Technical Education (CTE) students in the Teach Rialto Program with $2,000 scholarship checks during the June 12, 2024, Board of Education Meeting. These Eisenhower High School students gained invaluable real-world experience through the program by teaching in RUSD classrooms, a rewarding experience accompanied by a significant financial boost. Ramesh Mahadeva, Chief Nurse Executive, Ontario Medical Center, Martha Valencia, Community Health Manager, and Daniel Enz, Manager, Government and Community Relations, represented Kaiser Permanente at the televised Board meeting, assisting the RUSD Board of Education and Acting Superintendent Dr. Ed D’Souza in recognizing the students’ hard work with certificates and scholarships. The scholarship student recipients are Natalie Ahedo, Jennifer Covarrubias, Aiyana Quintero,Fatima Rodriguez, Regina Santana Garcia, Fatima Urena, Lily Wendt, Amber Gurrola, LizzetteMendez, Jada Jimenez, Dulce Cisneros, Isabela Escoto, Raylene Gutierrez, and Lunah Rangel. “The generous scholarships provided by Kaiser Permanente will not only ease some of our students’ financial burdens but also inspire them to continue their journey in education and beyond,” said Acting RUSD Superintendent Dr. Ed D’Souza. “This partnership exemplifies the positive impact that community support can have