SAN BERNARDINO, CA—San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., in partnership with the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD), brought holiday cheer to Muscoy Elementary School on December 9 by distributing toys to all 650 students and presenting the school with $5,000 to be used for the school’s greatest need. The event created a moment of joy for students and highlighted the strong community partnership supporting children in the Muscoy community.
A school staff room was transformed into a cheerful Santa’s workshop filled with toys of every kind. Tables were stacked with bright pink Barbies, sturdy Tonka trucks and stuffed animals in every size and color. Everywhere you looked there was something that promised joy for a child.
Supervisor Baca, Jr. greeted students and personally handed out toys to them. The campus was filled with excitement as each child received a gift to brighten their holiday season.
For Muscoy Elementary Principal Juan Ortiz, the meaning of Tuesday’s celebration goes far beyond the gifts that students received.
“This is exactly the kind of community support that lifts our students and reminds them they are valued,” Ortiz said. “Our kids will remember this generosity long after the toys are gone. Moments like this show them that people believe in their future.”
Supervisor Baca, Jr. emphasized that Muscoy is family to him and underscored his commitment to the community’s young people.
“This event ensures every student receives a toy—no matter their financial situation—and reminds them that their community is here to support, uplift and celebrate them.”
Muscoy sixth-grade student Yaretzi Romero summed up the moment with these words: “it’s so awesome.”
“Supervisor Baca is so nice for doing this.” Romero continued as she waited for her class to select toys. “I really love plushies of all types, and I’m hoping to get one.”
SBCUSD Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Sandra Rodriguez expressed gratitude for the partnership and the ongoing support Supervisor Baca, Jr., provides to the Muscoy community.
“There are people in this community who think of you and care about you,” Rodriguez told students gathered for the assembly. “They believe in you, and they know you’re going to have a bright future.”
The event is part of Supervisor Baca Jr.’s continued efforts to uplift children in underserved areas and strengthen ties between local government and schools. Muscoy Elementary School students left the event with smiles and a renewed sense of holiday spirit.
