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By Edward Henderson, California Black Media

Shay Franco-Clausen is Political Director for Equality California, the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization.

A resident of the Bay Area, Franco-Clausen is an award-winning public advocate, speaker, political strategist and former elected official. She has contributed her thought leadership to drafting seventeen pieces of legislation in California. Notable among these accomplishments is her role in extending the statute of limitations for felony domestic violence survivors, advocating for the rights of foster youth, preserving endangered open spaces, and championing the restoration of voting rights for individuals on parole.

Shay has spent the last 14 years serving on many local, county and state boards, political action committees and commissions, centered on criminal justice, LGBTQ and reproductive rights, gender-based violence and environmental protections.

California Black Media (CBM) spoke with Franco-Clausen about her successes, frustrations and future plans heading into 2025.

Looking back at 2024, what stands out to you as your most important achievement and why? 

In the role that I sit in as the political director for Equality California, we endorsed 216 candidates. I think the one achievement after this election that I’m proud of is that we overturned Prop 8 to protect same-sex marriages here because they’re about to attack our rights on the federal level, come 2025.

I’m glad at least we changed our California constitution to reflect and protect my marriage.

How did your leadership and investments contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians? 

I contribute through my lived experience. I may have achieved a lot, but I come from those same communities that are marginalized, East Oakland, East San Jose, Watts. It gives me a different perspective. I am a formerly incarcerated youth who was in foster care. I think I contribute that bit of understanding, and I operate from an equity lens. I’m willing to push people to make them recognize that hey, you cannot forget about Black people. We are the most marginalized.

What frustrated you the most over the last year?

What frustrates me is our inability to recognize that we forget people. I was tapped to work on the Harris campaign from Equality California. And through that, being at that table, I was frustrated that they weren’t listening to Americans and not looking at the data.

The reason Trump won is because he had consistent messaging, and we didn’t debunk it. I think I’m more frustrated that we don’t fully listen to people all the time when they’re critiquing us.

So, I’m frustrated that people at the top don’t always know what’s happening to people at the bottom and their messaging doesn’t reflect our issues.

What inspired you the most over the last year?

All those people that came out to support Kamala Harris. I was really proud that people came out. I was pretty proud that my son voted for the first time for a Black woman for President.

What is one lesson you learned in 2024 that will inform your decision-making next year?

Be fearless. Sometimes I second-guess myself. I push back, but I could push more because I’m qualified. I have the education, I have the experience, and I know what I’m talking about in all the rooms that I go in. And I must be confident in that.

In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

Prioritization.

We’re still not seen as a priority, but everyone likes to add us to their talking points. Even though we have Black people in office, it doesn’t matter if we are not part of the budget. A budget is a statement of our values. If we’re not a part of the budget, but we’re a part of the talking points, there’s something missing.

What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2025?

Writing a book. I think it’s important for us to tell our stories, not let other people tell them. And as I look forward to all the things that I’ve achieved, knowing where I came from, I think it’s important and powerful to tell those stories so other people can see themselves in not only the pain, but the power.

I am also kicking off my campaign for Hayward City Council.

Ubuntu Project Spotlights Artistic Expression as a Pathway to Community Healing

This resource was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library via California Black Media as part of the Stop the Hate Program. The program is supported by partnership with California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.

VICTORVILLE, CA – On Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 1 PM to 4 PM, the Cultural Arts Center of the High Desert will come alive with the creativity and talent of High Desert youth at the 2025 Youth Art Collective Showcase. This free event, organized by the Ubuntu Project, aims to celebrate the power of artistic expression in fostering community healing, resilience, and unity.

The showcase will feature a diverse array of artistic mediums, including music, painting, drawing, fashion, and more. By centering the voices and talents of youth, the event seeks to inspire meaningful dialogue and promote healing through shared cultural experiences.

“We are excited to provide a platform for our youth to express themselves and connect with their community,” says Nichole Williams-Artry, Program Coordinator for the Ubuntu Project. “This showcase is about celebrating the spirit of ‘I Am Because We Are,’ where we recognize our shared humanity and collective strength.”

The Ubuntu Project, funded by the California Department of Social Services, is a Stop the Hate grantee program committed to aiding victims and families affected by hate crimes. Through healing circles, art initiatives, and leadership development, the project works to promote resilience and social-emotional wellness in the High Desert’s African American community.

This historic initiative, named after the African proverb “I am because we are,” represents the first state allocation of funding dedicated to addressing hate and its consequences.

The event is free to attend with RSVP and welcomes families, community members, and art enthusiasts. Youth artists under 18 who attend school in the High Desert are encouraged to submit their art for consideration, provided it aligns with content guidelines.

How to Participate:

• As a Service Recipient: Youth can submit their art or participate in workshops leading up to the event.
• As a Volunteer: Community members can support the event by assisting with logistics, mentoring youth, or helping with outreach efforts.

For more information, submissions, or to RSVP, contact Nichole Williams-Artry at 760-229-6175 or email NWilliams-Artry@healthcollaborative.org. Follow the Ubuntu Project on Instagram and Facebook @Ubuntuprojectchc for updates and details.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

Grammy Award winning singer and record label executive, Jay King, was elected CEO/President of the California Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) in June of 2019.

The CBCC is the largest African American non-profit business organization, representing thousands of small and emerging businesses, affiliates and chambers of commerce throughout California.

King is also a member of the popular 1980s R&B group Club Nouveau. In his role as an artist and activist, he has stood up for issues affecting underrepresented Californians for over three decades.

As the President of the CBCC, King says he is determined to put his mark on developing and expanding the capacity of African American businessmen and women.

California Black Media (CBM) spoke with King recently. He reflected on the Chamber’s accomplishments, disappointments, lessons learned this year and goals moving forward.

Looking back at 2024, what stands out to you as your most important achievement and why? 

Making the voice of micro and mini-micro businesses loud, forcing policymakers and other decision makers across the state to start paying attention to them. With legislation in place now — AB 1574 and AB 2019 – that mandates that the state and agencies affiliated with the state extend opportunities to micro and mini business owners and give them a chance to participate in government contracting in a real way.

How did your leadership and investments contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians? 

I really want to contribute to the world and the state of Black businesses because of the systemic inequities in the past.

Small business, micro businesses and mini businesses are too often overlooked.

I think it would be egotistical to believe that I make any significant impact on my own. Whether it’ s the Asian Chamber, Hispanic Chamber and other organizations that are fighting the same fight. I think it’ s a collective, so I’ m proud to be part of the collective.

What frustrated you the most over the last year?

We say we want to give access to capital to small businesses, and yet we continue to create barriers that deny them access to capital.

And even if we get them access to capital, we don’ t create pathways for that success — whether it’ s through education or resources, or through language – providing support in a language that they understand because, maybe, they’ re from another country Or, we don’t even provide cultural-specific resources for people who are from this country.

We ignore and negate the systemic racism, bigotry, prejudice, and bias that African American and other ethnic businesspeople and communities have experienced.

What inspired you the most over the last year?

Watching some of the small business owners that we worked with — these micro businesses — and seeing the potential and the power that is in front of us. If we equip them the right way, if we train them the right way, if we develop them the right way, they can not only flourish, but they can scale and start hiring people in their communities.

What is one lesson you learned in 2024 that will inform your decision-making next year?

We have to fight for Black businessowners, but they also have to be prepared. Just because we want to push them through, because we want them to have a contract, we have to be very careful about who we get in the game, and make sure that they’ re ready. Because if they’ re not, it affects us all down the line.

In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

Self-belief. I think we have been conditioned on victimization and victimhood. We think that if we don’ t get the help we need that we will falter.

We must have real belief that we have made it this far despite every barrier, every obstacle, every disillusionment that has ever come our way. And we are still standing.

What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2025?

I want to change the trajectory of micro and mini business owners.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

The California Association of African American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA) is a group of educational leaders from across the state. The organization is committed to identifying critical issues in public education related to the performance of African American students and addressing them through education reform initiatives.

Its membership includes school superintendents, assistant superintendents, directors, and administrators. CAAASA has a long-standing history of hosting institutes, meetings, conferences, and various special events focused on education.

Serving as an informational resource to the California Department of Education (CDE), CAAASA makes recommendations on several of the department’s priorities, including curriculum and instruction, staff development, parent involvement, funding, and gender specific issues.

CAAASA has submitted testimony to the Speaker of the Assembly aimed at improving the status of African American males relative to their over-representation in the penal system and underrepresentation in the nation’s colleges and universities.

?Additionally, CAAASA has worked in partnership with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) to sponsor events and programs that have been successful in addressing the needs of African American students.

This year, the organization sponsored a statewide conference in Sacramento titled, “Education is a Civil Right.”

Recently, California Black Media (CBM) spoke with Dr. Adam Clark, the President of CAAASA, about the organization’s successes, disappointments, lessons learned and future plans heading into the new year.

Responses have been edited for clarity and length.

What was your most important achievement in 2024 and why?

The most important achievement was organizing our statewide professional development summit to mark the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education. We focused on research and strategies to improve education for African American and other students of color. Afterward, we partnered with the National Coalition of Educational Equity to host a convening in Washington D.C., continuing our efforts to drive progress.

How did your leadership and investments improve the lives of Black Californians?

We launched two new Leadership Academies for aspiring administrators and superintendents. These programs help build a pipeline of future administrators committed to improving education for all students, especially students of color. By focusing on closing opportunity gaps, we’re ensuring Black Californians have the support and resources they need to succeed in the education system.

What frustrated you the most over the last year?

The ongoing inequities Black students face are the most frustrating. Despite our progress, challenges still exist. 

What inspired you the most over the last year?

I was inspired by the collaboration and energy at our national conference in Washington D.C., where leaders from across the country united to focus on educational equity. Seeing so many passionate advocates gave me hope that real, lasting change is possible when we work together.

What lesson did you learn in 2024 that will guide your decisions next year?

I learned the importance of collective action. Building coalitions of educators, lawmakers, and civil rights leaders is essential to addressing the root causes of inequity in our schools.

CBM: What is the biggest challenge Black Californians face in one word?

Inequity. 

CBM: What is your main goal for 2025?

My main goal is to speed up the implementation of evidence-based strategies that improve Black student achievement. Through partnerships, policy work, and professional development, I want to ensure our schools are equipped to meet the needs of Black students and help every learner succeed.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

The California African American Chamber of Commerce (CAACC) is the largest statewide African American business association.

Its mission is to drive economic opportunity and wealth creation for African American businesses and connect and harness the collective strength of their statewide network of member organizations to advocate and protect common interests.

California Black Media (CBM) spoke with CAACC Chairman Patricia Watts on this year’s successes, disappointments and plans heading into 2025

Looking back at 2024, what stands out as your most important achievement and why? 

The CAACC proudly played a pivotal role in the State of California African American Economy Summit, one of our signature events for 2024. This summit is designed to strengthen Black economic influence through education and fellowship, bringing together the state’s most influential Black business leaders, policymakers, and economic thinkers. Our discussions covered critical economic topics relevant to California’s African American business community, including policy, government contracts, and equity.

Through our educational and advocacy programs, we aim to promote equitable public policies that expand access and broaden the landscape of economic opportunities for the African American community. By leveraging these powerful networks, CAACC is committed to bolstering Black business success and strengthening our communities.

How did your leadership and investments contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians? 

Our leadership and investments have been centered on empowering African American Californians by providing consistent support, resources, and connections that address their economic needs. Through our ongoing programs, we deliver relevant information on critical economic issues and policies, as well as technical assistance that helps businesses navigate the complexities of today’s marketplace.

We also partner with our corporate members and sponsors to design customized programming that aligns with their needs while promoting economic growth within the African American community. By fostering these collaborations, we ensure that our network of African American businesses has access to valuable opportunities and resources, creating pathways to success.

What frustrated you the most over the last year?

One of the biggest challenges has been balancing our ambitious goals with the need to deliver consistent, relevant programming. We have big ideas and turning them into reality requires diligent effort and coordination among various stakeholders.

Additionally, fostering and maintaining strong relationships with business organizations, as well as state and local municipalities, is an ongoing task that requires significant time and resources. Our focus has always been supporting Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and small businesses and ensuring that our programs meet their evolving needs while expanding our reach.

Despite these frustrations, we remain committed to our mission and are constantly learning and adapting to improve the support we provide to our community.

What inspired you the most over the last year?

Over the past year, one of the most inspiring developments has been the formation of a tri-ethnic partnership between the CAAAC, the Cal Asian Chamber, and the Cal Hispanic Chamber. This collaboration represents a united effort to drive positive change and growth for diverse businesses across our communities.

A key highlight of this partnership has been the Annual California Diversity Awards, where we come together to recognize and celebrate individuals and corporations that actively support and champion the growth of diverse enterprises. It’s a powerful reminder of the collective strength and resilience within our communities.

Moreover, our partnership extends to advocacy, where we have come together to sponsor legislative bills, including AB 2019. These initiatives reflect our shared commitment to creating equitable opportunities and promoting economic empowerment for minority business enterprises throughout California. Seeing these efforts come to life has been a truly inspiring and rewarding experience.

What is one lesson you learned in 2024 that will inform your decision-making next year?

One key lesson we learned in 2024 is the importance of aligning our efforts with the specific strategic initiatives of our corporate members when it comes to supporting the Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) community. Each of our partners has unique goals, and by tailoring our programs to meet these needs, we can more effectively drive mutual success.

Our ultimate goal is to help MBEs become contract-ready through targeted training and professional development. This approach not only ensures that MBEs are prepared to take advantage of opportunities but also aligns with the broader objectives of our corporate partners. We’ve seen that our ethnic business communities are eager for opportunities in wealth creation, access to informed legislative policies, and other critical areas that impact their growth. This lesson will guide us in continuing to develop customized, impactful programs that bridge the gap between MBEs and sustainable business success in the coming year.

In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

Stability.

What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2025? 

Our primary goal for 2025 is to drive growth in the number of new African American businesses, increase the volume of contracts awarded to these enterprises, and strengthen connections with the State of California. By expanding our network and fostering strategic partnerships, we aim to create more opportunities for African American businesses to thrive and secure sustainable growth.

Ryan McEachron was elected the San Bernardino County Board of Education Vice President on Dec. 16. McEachron, elected to the Board in 2022, represents Trustee Area A.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA — The San Bernardino County Board of Education voted Dec. 16 to elect Dr. Gwendolyn Dowdy-Rodgers as Board President for the 2025 term. The Board also elected Ryan McEachron as Vice President for the upcoming year. Both positions are a one-year term, with the Board holding elections every December for the ensuing year.

Dr. Dowdy-Rodgers, elected to the Board in 2022, represents Trustee Area D which includes the unified school districts of Rialto, San Bernardino City and Snowline Joint.

McEachron, also elected to the Board in 2022, represents Trustee Area A which includes the school districts of Adelanto, Apple Valley Unified, Baker Valley Unified, Barstow Unified, Helendale, Hesperia Unified, Lucerne Valley Unified, Needles Unified, Oro Grande, Silver Valley Unified, Trona Joint Unified, Victor Elementary, Victor Valley Union High, and portions of Rim of the World Unified.

At the December 16 Board meeting, Laura A. Mancha and Andrea De Leon took the oath of office as they began their new terms. Both were re-elected to the Board in the November 2024 election and are eligible for re-election in 2028.

The remaining member of the Board is Rita Fernandez-Loof (Trustee Area B).

The County Board of Education establishes policy, adopts an annual budget, approves building plans and conducts appeal hearings for student expulsions, inter-district transfers and charter school approvals.

The Board meets regularly on the second Monday of every month, with meetings open to the public. For more information about the San Bernardino County Board of Education, visit sbcboe.org.

By Edward Henderson, California Black Media

The Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC) is a statewide organization comprised of various associations, community groups and individuals united by their commitment to fight for reparations and reparative justice for the descendants of enslaved Black American men and women.

CJEC was one of seven “anchor organizations” sanctioned by the California Reparations Task Force and the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to evaluate California’s role in slavery and Jim Crow discrimination. They also aided in developing resolutions to compensate African Americans in California for past and ongoing race-based injustices.

California Black Media (CBM) recently interviewed Chris Lodgson, the lead organizer and advocate for the CJEC to discuss the organization’s achievements, challenges, and plans heading into the new year.

Responses have been edited for length and clarity.

Looking back at 2024, what stands out to you as your most important achievement and why? 

The fact that we helped to advance the first ever state level lineage-based reparations related legislation this year is probably the biggest success. At the start of the year, we introduced the first ever bill specifically for residents who were descendants of people who were enslaved in this country.

Also, state agencies across the state of California started collecting what we call lineage data. Now, specifically state employees or people who want to become state employees, have the option to self-identify as Black Americans who are descendants of people who were enslaved in this country. That is based on some legislation that we wrote in 2022 that the Governor signed. It took effect this year.

How did your leadership and investments contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians? 

California took steps to recognize and identify residents who are these descendants. I think that is a positive impact on Black Californians because for the first time ever we are being seen.

We have a saying: ‘if you don’ t see a community you can’ t serve a community’.

What frustrated you the most over the last year?

Several of the bills that we supported this year were blocked. And then also one of one of the other bills that we supported this year was vetoed.

Secondly, the actions of the California Legislative Black Caucus not just in blocking the bills, but how they didn’t work with each other.

What inspired you the most over the last year?

How people across the state of California — and across the country, really — have been able to come together in support of the reparations effort. Grassroots advocates and organizers and supporters of reparations generally have been able to work together, especially after the events over the last several weeks with the bills being blocked. Also, the national attention that we are getting has also been inspiring.

I’m also really impressed with and inspired by how much our folks are getting involved in the political work, and how much we’ve matured politically. We really have been caring more about elected leaders’ policies rather than what their political parties are.

What is one lesson you learned in 2024 that will inform your decision-making next year?

One lesson that we learned is that if Black legislators are working against each other, which is what we saw this year, that will hurt reparations. I know that this year we had Black legislators working against other Black legislators and that hurt the effort. As advocates for reparations, we must work to build more political power, specifically in areas where we would like influence over the members who represent those areas.

In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

Power. Political power specifically.

It became very, very clear when the Black Caucus introduced those bills that they call reparations bills. An apology is not reparations. Bringing back affirmative action is not reparations. Letting people wear their hair the way they want to at work is definitely not reparations.

To me, that was a clear sign of political weakness.

What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2025?

The passage and enactment of actual reparations legislation. That is the number one goal. That includes bills and policies that we didn’t get this year and other things that we want.

This resource was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library via California Black Media as part of the Stop the Hate Program. The program is supported by partnership with California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.

Special to WssNews By Jim Bolas, Chief Program Officer, Family Assistance Program

San Bernardino County, CA — The Family Assistance Program proudly announced its expanded commitment to addressing hate crimes and bullying through its *Stop the Hate* campaign and the development of a county-wide Human Rights Coalition. These initiatives aim to create safer and more inclusive communities by preventing and addressing acts of hate while empowering individuals through education, advocacy, and direct services.

As part of the *Stop the Hate* campaign, Family Assistance Program focuses on combating anti- BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQIA+ violence, bullying, and hate crimes against all protected classes among youth and young adults. This campaign combines direct services, prevention strategies, and intervention to ensure that everyone—regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or other characteristics—feels safe and supported in their communities.

Recent incidents, including the tragic murder of businesswoman Laura Ann Carleton in Cedar Glen and the racist language at a previous San Bernardino City Council Meeting, are stimulating the agency’s sense of urgency regarding these efforts. The campaign’s initiatives include peer-based therapeutic support, professional counseling, anti-bullying workshops in schools, and the creation of a rapid response network to support hate crime survivors.

Key Campaign Features:  

• Direct Services: Tailored care plans, therapy, system navigation and wellness activities for LGBTQIA+ and marginalized youth and young adult community members. 
• Prevention: Peer mentoring programs, partnerships with and safety planning and “upstander” workshops at Gay-Straight Alliances and school programs, and a youth-driven awareness campaign. 
• Intervention: Training for schools, housing programs, and community organizations, alongside policy reviews to enhance equity and inclusion.  

In tandem with these efforts, the Family Assistance Program is forming a Human Rights Coalition, which will serve as a central body uniting agencies, organizations, and advocates to protect and empower individuals experiencing discrimination or bias-based violence. Through collaboration, the coalition aims to increase hate crime reporting, provide comprehensive support to survivors, and educate the public on human rights and available resources.

Opportunities to Get Involved With Family Assistance:  

• Access Services: If you or someone you know has been impacted by hate crimes or bullying, reach out for support. Visit [Family Assistance Program’s Stop the Hate webpage](https://familyassist.org/stop-the-hate-anti-violence-project/ ) for more information.  
• Volunteer: Help expand the impact by volunteering your time or expertise. Opportunities are available to support the various programs, assist with events, and participate in coalition efforts. 
• Join the Human Rights Coalition: Lend your voice and expertise to shape the coalition’s agenda, including policy advocacy, community outreach, and education initiatives.  

To learn more or to get involved, please contact Jim Bolas at 917-689-9659 or jim@familyassist.org “

Family Assistance Program empowers all individuals and families, regardless of age or gender, by providing knowledge and skills to live a healthy, safe, fulfilled life.

The Outstanding Achievement Awards Recognize District Students, Parents and Staff

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—On Tuesday, Oct. 22, the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Fairfax Elementary School, Riley College Prep Academy Elementary School, Curtis Middle School and Virtual Academy.

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to honor excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, citizenship and most improvement. The Board also presents the Outstanding Parent/Grandparent/Volunteer Award and Outstanding Employee Award to individuals who embody the District’s dedication to student achievement and well-being.

Fairfax Elementary School, Principal Dr. Gregory Alexander:

Alexa Fuentes Vasquez is a second grader and Outstanding Student. Principal Alexander shared that Fuentes Vasquez demonstrates safe, respectful and responsible behavior. She consistently scores at the top of the class.

Markus Garcia is a fifth grader and was also recognized as an Outstanding Student. Garcia is a cooperative and well-mannered 5th-grader who completes his work accurately and on time. His passion for learning, his willingness to be a team player, and his determination to succeed in life is beyond compare.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Natalie Rincon has made a difference for all students at Fairfax Elementary by volunteering nearly the entire 2023–24 school year as a recreation aide. She attends field trips and serves on the English Learner Advisory Council (ELAC). During lunch and recess, Rincon also found special time to connect with students who spoke limited English to make them feel comfortable and important.

Secretary II Desiree Huerta is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Huerta is the heart and soul of Fairfax. She is organized and keeps staff informed. She demonstrates professionalism by giving her best everyday and exemplifies resilience by facing and resolving problems and overcoming adversities on a regular basis.

National Board Certified Teacher Jason Scott is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. As a Multi-tiered System of Support Teacher on Special Assignment, Scott has established a solid tier 2 intervention by organizing and implementing the school’s learning lab. He exemplifies the belief in human potential because he truly believes that every individual can learn and exceed expectations.

Riley College Prep Academy Elementary School, Principal Jaime Arias:

Leo Garcia is a fifth-grader and Outstanding Student. Garcia shines as an exceptional student who perseveres through challenges and always tries his hardest. He is the first to lend a helping hand to a friend and consistently demonstrates classroom expectations. His bright light shines whenever you see him, and he is a natural leader who models great behavior and sets a positive example for his peers.

Evelyn Palacios Garcia is a fourth-grader and Outstanding Student. Palacios Garcia exceeded expectations in both language arts and math on the CAASPP last year as a third-grader. Her laughter and smiles brighten each day, reflecting her happiness to be at school and learning. She upholds all PBIS expectations and has earned a role on Riley’s Honor Patrol.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Elizabeth Delgado is a shining example of parent empowerment and engagement. Her dedication to Riley is evident through her active involvement in the School Site Council, English Learner Advisory Council and other District committees, as well as her volunteer hours. She is a proud San Bernardino High graduate and a true product of San Bernardino.

Bilingual Health Aide Alejandra Sanchez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Sanchez models professionalism, pride and kindness daily. She shines when caring for students’ health, helping families support their child’s health and working collaboratively with her office team on daily operations.

Program Facilitator Scott Neuscheler is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Neuscheler exemplifies the District’s Operational Values by championing the strengths of every Riley student and teacher and helping them reach their fullest potential. He advocates for all students to receive the support they need, creating a safe and welcoming school environment that is fun and joyful.

Curtis Middle School, Principal Guillermo Guerrero:

Eighth-grader Jasaun Alonzo Lee Carswell is an Outstanding Student. Carswell is a member of the Lion Team and has been a driving force behind the motto “The Curtis Way.” He played a pivotal role in Curtis Middle School’s achievement of the STEM Pathway Linked Learning Gold Certification, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence.

Oswaldo Moreno Cortes is a seventh-grader and Outstanding Student. Moreno Cortes exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated scholar and to live The Curtis Way. Beginning his SBCUSD journey as a kindergarten English learner, Moreno Cortes has demonstrated remarkable progress. With a 4.0 GPA, perfect attendance and a strong work ethic, he is a shining example of academic excellence and perseverance.

Marina Perez is an Outstanding Parent Award winner. Perez has earned recognition for her active involvement and dedication to her school community. As a key member of Curtis’s English Learner Advisory Council and the District-level committee, she plays a vital role in supporting efforts to improve educational outcomes for English learners.

Bilingual Attendance Technician Gabriela Caracoza is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Caracoza truly exemplifies the District’s Vision 2030: SBCUSD SHINES in all that she does. A pillar of positivity in the school office, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the success of staff and scholars. Her stellar customer service and dedication to supporting the school community make her an essential part of the Curtis family.

Scott Velasquez is an Outstanding Certificated Employee and English Language Arts Teacher. Velasquez is an exemplary leader who embodies Vision 2030: SBCUSD SHINES every day. As a dedicated team lead, department chair and sports coach, he consistently demonstrates a commitment to excellence. His leadership and dedication to Curtis scholars, along with his embodiment of the Curtis Way, contribute to a thriving and positive school culture.

Virtual Academy, Principal Karma Duffy:

Jaylin Soto is a senior and an Outstanding Student. Soto has worked hard during her time at Virtual Academy. She has strived to do her academic best. She not only excels in her high school coursework but also her college coursework. She currently has completed two semesters of college coursework as part of the Dual Enrollment program.

High school junior Malia Woods is an Outstanding Student. Woods has been a great student who is always willing to go above and beyond what’s expected of her. Her teacher has witnessed her growth as a virtual student and her strong leadership skills. She submits quality work, participates in Dual Enrollment, attending both high school and college classes, and attends most Virtual Academy in-person events.

Kesha McGee is an Outstanding Parent. McGee is always willing to support and be involved in her child’s education and wider school matters. She has been a driving force in the establishment of Virtual Academy’s African-American Parent Advisory Council and the PTO. School staff appreciate that she is looking out not only for her own child but for all the students of Virtual Academy.

Senior Clerk Sonja Brock is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Brock exemplifies professionalism as she works closely with parents and staff to ensure that everyone feels valued and respected. She is the school’s enrollment specialist and works to ensure families understand the Independent Study process through both Virtual Academy and the Alternative Learning Center.

High School English Language Arts Teacher Lorie Myers is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. She exemplifies the importance of human potential. Her warm demeanor provides a feeling of support with high expectations for all of her scholars. She has always been a team player and truly takes an interest in every scholar she works with.