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.

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

Through all the circumstances and trials of life; Failures, loss, disappointments, health problems, difficulties, God has never once failed us. [Psalm 73:26].  For He has been our dwelling place throughout all generations [Psalms 90:1]. He has given us grace and mercy and walked with us through some of the darkest moments of our lives. [Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 2:10]. He has guarded and protected us from harm and evil. [Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 54:17]. He has given us strength when we were weak and sick. [Psalm 46:1]. He comforted and helped us when we were in trouble and facing challenges. [2 Corinthians 1:4]. He brought us to the banqueting house, and His banner over us was love. [Song of Solomon 2:4].

While the journey may not have been easy, God has been good to us. So today, spend time in prayer, thanking Him for all His goodness, mercy, and grace. None of us deserved the goodness of God that we received, but He loves us, cares for us, and has blessed us all. He is worthy of our praise and thanksgiving, not just today but every day!  So, make known among the nations what He has done. Sing to Him; Sing Praise to Him in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Praise Him through the Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall. Praise Him through the passing days and encircling months. Tell of all His wonderful acts. [Psalm 105:1-2; Psalms 107:8].

For as Jeremiah declared, “Because of the Lord’s faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning… [Lamentations 3:21-23].

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee: Thou changes not, Thy compassions, they fail not: As Thou has been, Thou forever will be. All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided, Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me. [Thomas Chisholm].

Banner Praise. [Exodus 17:15]. I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever. With my mouth will I make known Thy faithfulness to all generations. [Psalm 89:1; Isaiah 63:7-9].

If you are reading this, then I know that grace and mercy has called your name today, so remember God’s faithfulness. Thank Him for His blessings, His mercy, and His love. [Psalm 107:1].

How did I make it all these years? How did I make it this far? Through the valleys and over the hills, I know it had to be God. How did I make it through the storm? How did I make it through the rain? If you want to know, just how I got here, it’s so easy to explain. It was God’s grace, His amazing grace, that I made it this far… Some people said, I wouldn’t make it. Some people said I wouldn’t be here today. But look at me, I made it this far – Yes, by the grace of God. When I sit down and look back, down through the years, I have to shed so many tears. But I made it, I made it this far, by the grace of God. [God’s Grace – Luther Lee Barnes, Derrick L Luther Barnes Lyrics].

Yes, Lord, I recall all You have done, O, Lord; I remember Your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about them [Psalm 77:11-12] For this I will praise You, O Lord, among the nations, and sing to Your name. [Psalm 18:49].

I am grateful for the things that you have done. Yes, I’m grateful for the victories we’ve won. I could go on and on and on about your works because I’m grateful, so grateful just to praise You Lord. Flowing from my heart are the issues of my heart, it’s gratefulness. [Grateful -Hezekiah Walker].

Looking Back Over the years. To God be all the Glory! Yes, and Amen!

By Edward Henderson, California Black Media

The Black Equity Collective (BEC) is a community-focused, public-private partnership with Black equity as its central, driving force.

BEC’s focus is to strengthen the long-term capacity and infrastructure of Black-led social justice organizations in Southern California.

Born out of two organizations – the Social Good Solutions Firm and the Black Equity Initiative — BEC’s mission is centered on the belief that progress on Black equity and racial justice must be part of any credible social justice movement in the United States. Additionally, the collective believes equity is only achieved when philanthropic investments, public policies, and institutional practices converge to boldly confront racial injustice.

Kaci Peterson, the founder and Chief Architect of Social Good Solutions and the Black Equity Collective, has over 18 years of experience in the non-profit and philanthropy sectors, managing several multi-million-dollar grant-making portfolios.

California Black Media (CBM) spoke with Peterson recently. She discussed the organization’s successes, disappointments, and lessons from 2024 as they continue their initiatives 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? 

This year, we celebrated our 10-year anniversary as a firm. Since the firm’ s inception we are proud to announce that cumulatively we’ve been able to raise and leverage over $55.5 million for Black-led organizations in California.

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

We launched a survey involving 200 Black-led organizations to study the economic impact of Black-led organizations on California’ s GDP. The results of that survey will be released in early 2025. One of the reasons that survey is important is that it develops a narrative around why there is severe underinvestment in Black-led organizations.

What frustrated you the most over the last year?

The decline in philanthropic investment after the height of commitments following the murder of George Floyd, following COVID. There was really this opportunity for philanthropy to permanently shift course and take a different approach when it comes to Black-led organizations.

While some have, for the most part, philanthropy has retreated to a place of familiarity, which is pulling back on their funding.

What inspired you the most over the last year?

I am always inspired by the leaders on the ground who just continue to do monumental work. The fact that here in Los Angeles, we’ve been able to stand up a doula hub in response to the policy advocacy work that so many of our leaders, our Black women in particular, really pushed and got state legislation passed a couple of years ago so that doulas can be an approved and reimbursable expense through Medi-Cal. There has been a real push to make the implementation of that law real.

I’m proud of the collaboration that we’ve been able to do with other Black-led networks across the state.

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

I started an 11-week sabbatical on Nov. 1. I think oftentimes as Black leaders, we are burning the candle at both ends. And I don’ t think Black people are even aware of the social, emotional, and physical toll that taken on us — even subconsciously. We must really see, rest, retreat and take respite as part of our journey to justice.

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

Erasure.

We’ve really leaned into a narrative of Black permanence and what it means to preserve our community, our culture, our contributions, our language, our history, our leaders, our institutions. There is so much effort to erase us through burnout and fatigue, through underfunding of our organizations. To erase our history by banning books and not allowing certain things to be talked about.

We must have a counter battle.

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

I really want to start up an endowment for the collective. I think it’s really important to be able to preserve all of the things that the collective has contributed to the ecosystem so far — the philanthropic ecosystem in particular. To be able to create and establish an endowment for the collective that allows that work to happen in perpetuity is really important.

By Solomon O. Smith | California Black Media

A distraught mother and her legal team announced a $10 million lawsuit against the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) on Dec. 16, alleging that her son was the target of bullying because of his race.

“CS DOE is a 14-year-old African American student at Verdugo High School. He is a Ninth Grader,” reads a statement the plaintiff’s attorneys shared with California Black Media (CBM).

“Almost from the first day of class (in August 2024), CS DOE was targeted by Latino students who called him racial slurs, physically attacked him and threatened to stab him.”

The family’s identity has not yet been released to the public due to safety concerns, according to their attorneys Bradley C. Gage and Caree Harper. The student’s mother is identified only as A.O. in the complaint.

The first video, filmed in August, showed several non-Black students punching and kicking a Black student in a bathroom on campus while yelling racial slurs. The mother claims that the students who attacked her son were not punished, and the administration asked her to move her son to another school for his safety.

“They wanted him to leave the school without giving any disciplinary action towards those students,” said the student’s mother. “He’s not going anywhere. He’s going to finish. I wanted him to at least stay until the December winter break, and then I was going to transfer schools for him.”

Before she could enroll her son in a different school the attacks escalated.

In December, a second altercation, on a video shared with news media, showed 4 to 6 boys attacking a Black student and using racial slurs. The video also shows a person in a safety vest trying to stop the fight and telling them to “handle it after school.” Then, the video ends.

CS DOE, a14-year-old freshman, left the school but was followed by a car, according to Gage. Several individuals exited the vehicle, one with a “large butcher knife.” A fight ensued and two people were stabbed. The Black student was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon but was later released into his mother’s custody.

Harper, who is handling the criminal charges, expressed frustration with the school and the District Attorney’s office. She criticized newly elected Los Angeles County District Attorney, Nathan J. Hoffman, for charging a 14-year-old for “defending his life” while reconsidering the resentencing of Eric and Lyle Menendez, brothers who were convicted of murdering their parents in the 1980s.

The high school freshmen is scheduled to appear in juvenile court on Feb. 1, but Harper says she will reach out to the District Attorney and make the case against charging the young man.

“His mama had to go find him because he was hiding and fleeing for his very life,” said Harper. “So, we want to have a conversation with the new district attorney, who will hopefully see it as Bradley and I see it: this was a man who was defending his life against certain death.”

According to the boy’s mother, the young student is still traumatized and has not been able to return to the area because it remains unsafe. Racial slurs have also been spray painted on their home.

The victim’s mother says that it has been difficult being separated and that her son has been scarred by the incident.

“I’m sad. I’m devastated, you know,” said the mother. “I still feel like they’re after him. I still feel like they can kill him, possibly.”

The LAUSD and principal of Verdugo High School did not respond to CBM’s requests for comment.

If you are – or someone you know is – has experienced a hate crime or hate incident, please visit CAvsHate.org for more information and to find out what you can do about it.

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.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

The California Association of Black School Educators (CABSE) is an organization consisting of elected and appointed school officials, administrators and instructors from across California who are committed to advancing equity for Black students.

CABSE members represent governmental agencies, charter schools and charter school organizations, public school districts, traditional public schools, and community colleges.

The organization’s primary goal is to expand PK-14 educational opportunities for all students in California, with an emphasis on under-represented and under-served Black students.

California Black Media (CBM) spoke with CABSE President Satra Zurita and Conference Chair Micah Ali about this year’s successes, disappointments, and plans for the organization coming into the new year.

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

Ali: I would have to say that two highlights have been the ongoing support of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Engie, and other sponsors that have enabled us to bring together like-minded education leaders twice a year to collectively advance innovative and meaningful strategies to achieve change on behalf of Black students across our state.

The other is the feedback we have received from presenters, attendees, and vendors alike about how our convenings and our collective work has inspired them to act within their local school districts and community colleges. It is a groundswell of solidarity and action that, yes, we hoped for, but have been overwhelmed with great pride and joy at seeing it manifest.

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

Zurita: CABSE’s leadership and investment in improving the education system for Black students in our great state has resulted in a long-standing focus on transforming public education and its response to Black students. By pulling from the very wisdom of those educators and leaders who care deeply about Black students and who are showing great promise through their efforts. CABSE creates a venue where educators can be unapologetic about our mission, even in the face of long-standing implicit bias, low expectations, and unabating under-support of Black students. Something powerful happens when changemakers come together to make change.

What frustrated you the most over the last year? 

Zurita: Continuing to see the deep impact of COVID-19 Pandemic school site closures on students academically and emotionally — especially Black students. This makes our work and our advocacy more vital than ever. We’ve made some gains but have a long way to go. I think folks really don’t understand the sweeping impact of that time. Our schools are still in catch-up and recover mode from the learning loss.

CBM: What inspired you the most over the last year?

Zurita: Seeing our CABSE convenings grow in depth and breadth — our strategies, powerful content and reach. In addition to attendees from virtually every area of the state, CABSE has benefitted from the faithful attendance of districts from the East, Midwest, South and Southwest US. This has brought a wonderful new dimension to CABSE, as it relates to best-practice sharing. We get to learn from the strengths and successes. There is something to say about solidarity that reaches across state lines. It gives me great hope.

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

Ali: Our Blueprint for Education Equity is a crowd-sourced framework of strategies that have shown great promise for improving the education experiences and opportunities for Black students. In 2024, we developed an equity self-assessment tool for districts to use in evaluating their own efforts on behalf of Black students. What we found is that virtually every district that participated in our survey indicated they have begun implementing most of our Blueprint strategies, whereas when we first launched the Blueprint, a number simply were not. One thing we learned, though, is that most districts are not as intentional as they could be at measuring how well those implemented strategies are helping Black students. For example, a recent report indicated that dual enrollment programs increased greatly across the state, but Black students remain underrepresented in them. This is both a challenge and an opportunity — and we are here for it.

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

Zurita: Many Black students across our state are dealing with a host of challenges: homelessness, food insecurity, exposure to violence, not to mention bias remains a pervasive problem. To add to the challenge, educators are worn out, tired, and frustrated. We now need to think about how we can simultaneously inspire and empower students and educators alike. The system needs an overhaul.

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

Zurita: In 2025, we hope to stand CABSE up as a fully functioning non-profit organization engaged in research and policy design.

Ali: We also aim to deepen the content of our convenings, including adding a Math Track and what we are calling Social Determinants of Education Track to our annual conference and institute, which will address those social contexts that prevent Black students from realizing their potential as students. We will also launch a new Black Board Member Academy to assist relatively new school and community college board members in leveraging their role to effectively impact Black student outcomes through governance strategies and identifying high quality learning curricula.

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.