BANNING, CA — The energy was high and the spirit of unity was even higher as Banning Unified School District welcomed back its incredible team of educators, support staff, and administrators for the start of the 2025–2026 school year. Held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at the Banning High School Performing Arts Center, the District’s annual Welcome Back event brought everyone together under one roof to reconnect, refocus, and reignite their shared purpose.
From classroom teachers and counselors to bus drivers and nutrition services staff, every team member gathered to celebrate the start of a new year. Superintendent Terrence Davis set the tone with an uplifting message rooted in the district’s theme: “We Are Banning.”
“Our success is not measured by individual roles, but by how we come together to serve our students,” said Superintendent Davis. “When every hand and every heart is aligned, there’s
nothing we can’t accomplish.”
Staff proudly represented their school sites and departments, filling the auditorium with cheers and school spirit. Shirts were launched into the crowd, adding to the lively atmosphere and reinforcing the sense of excitement and belonging that defines the Banning USD community.
The event featured a powerful keynote from Molly Grisham, whose message centered on building bridges, not barriers. She shared a striking analogy of the redwood tree, noting that while these trees stand tall, their strength lies in the way their roots extend outward and intertwine with the roots of neighboring trees. It was a call to lean on one another—reminding staff that connection is the key to resilience.
Grisham also introduced the story of “Luggage Larry,” a moving metaphor about the hidden burdens people carry. Whether it’s a student walking through classroom doors or a colleague walking into a meeting, her message was clear: assume the bags are heavier than they look. Her words encouraged a culture of empathy and compassion that starts with understanding and support.
A highlight of the morning was the debut of a new video showcasing the milestones of the previous school year and reaffirming the District’s commitment to its ongoing theme: We Are Banning.
The Welcome Back event served as both a celebration and a call to action—reaffirming Banning Unified’s deep commitment to collaboration, equity, and educational excellence for all students.
About Banning Unified School District:
Banning Unified School District serves nearly 4,300 students across its schools and is one of the
largest employers in the city of Banning, with over 600 dedicated staff members. The district’s
mission is to collaborate as a diverse community to develop responsible, respectful, and prepared
students who achieve their full potential. Guided by its vision to prepare, inspire, and educate,
Banning USD is committed to fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive
academically and personally.
