Ellen Perrault
The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) Board of Education has presented its Outstanding Community Partner Award to San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) for the month of May.
SBCUSD Board officials highlighted the college’s innovative programs like dual enrollment, which allows SBCUSD high school students to be concurrently enrolled in SBVC; student support services and a shared commitment to educational excellence, San Bernardino Valley College has helped open doors for countless SBCUSD students as they pursue higher education and career pathways. Their partnership reflects a true belief in the potential of every student and the importance of building strong bridges from K–12 education to college and beyond.
SBVC President Dr. Gilbert J. Contreras and Dean of Student Equity and Success Maria del Carmen Rodriguez accepted the award on behalf of the college.
“Our guiding principle is ‘advancing community,’ and to receive recognition from one of our biggest partners and champions in the community for education is just so meaningful for me and so meaningful for everyone who works at Valley College,” Contreras said.
The SBCUSD Board also presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Belvedere Elementary School, Warm Springs Elementary School, Arrowview Middle School and Cajon High School.
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.
Belvedere Elementary School, Principal Sylvette Del Llano presented to the following members of the Belvedere family: Felix Berumen is a sixth-grader who excels in all the languages in the trilingual program. He is kind and polite to all and always shows academic humility. He is a well-rounded scholar who also participates in activities like band and the school soccer team. Berumen’s maturity and behavior allow him to be focused and self-sufficient in all areas.
Sixth-grader Samantha Zermeno is an excellent student and a pure joy to have in class, according to her teacher, Serena Cereceres. She strives to do her absolute best on all of her assignments. She is inquisitive and not afraid to ask for help or clarification. Zermeno shares her love of learning with others and is always willing to help her fellow classmates.
Outstanding Parent Award winner Cynthia Carabajal is a valued member of the school community whose consistent support makes a meaningful difference. Through her presence at meetings, her willingness to volunteer at events and her dedication to her own children’s success, she exemplifies the partnership we strive to build with all families. Her involvement reflects a strong commitment to ensuring every student has opportunities to thrive.
Educational Assistant III Lizette Arroyo shows a strong commitment to student growth through intentional small-group instruction where every learner is supported and heard. Her classroom is safe and welcoming, encouraging academic and social risk-taking. With high expectations for all, Arroyo strengthens her classroom community and contributes to a culture of excellence that makes the entire District Shine.
Third-grade Trilingual Teacher Fernando Garcia strengthens the school community and highlights the pride and excellence that help Belvedere and the District SHINE. Through coaching basketball, baseball and soccer, he promotes teamwork and high expectations. He also supports the talent show and yearbook, celebrating student voice and achievement.
Warm Springs Elementary School, Principal Natalie Morales recognized the following individuals at her school: Fifth-grader America Garcia is a brilliant, young leader who shines as brightly as the example she sets for others. She has not only achieved excellence in the classroom, but she has also demonstrated kindness within the entire school community. By earning the outstanding award for both academics and citizenship, Garcia reminds us that true success is measured by both a dedicated mind and compassionate heart.
Second-grader Axel Ruelas has a positive attitude and a kind heart that make him a joy to have in class. Ruelas has shown remarkable growth in all subject areas and has become a confident, capable learner. His ability to work well with others, solve problems creatively and maintain a positive attitude demonstrates great maturity.
Outstanding Parent Award winner Karen Rios goes above and beyond to support all students with genuine care and collaboration. She helps bridge communication between families and the school, ensuring parents feel informed and connected. Her involvement in the School Site Council and English Learner Advisory Council strengthens the school’s work, and Warm Springs staff members adore her kindness and dedication.
Virginia Gandarilla’s work as Attendance Verifier is more than compliance—it’s connection. She understands that behind every number is a student, a story, a family. She is constantly thinking about how to create meaningful experiences for scholars, ensuring they feel seen, supported and valued.
Leandra Ramirez leads with intention, precision and joy, uplifting those around her. From managing ASB finances with accuracy to creating meaningful staff-appreciation activities, she brings care and thoughtfulness to all she does. Leandra sets a high standard that inspires rather than intimidates, modeling excellence with grace. She encourages growth in others through genuine belief in their potential, fostering a culture of connection and possibility.
Arrowview Middle School, Principal Berenice Rios offered high praise for those recognized at her school as well, including: Eighth-grader Genesis Ocampo has earned several prestigious recognitions while at Arrowview. Last year, she received both the Principal’s Award and Student of the Week honors. This year, she actively participated on the volleyball and softball teams while continuing to excel academically. She is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, serves as the Academic Team President and consistently demonstrates exemplary character, leadership and dedication.
Eighth-grader Katherine Pelayo won the AVID Write-Off this year and is also a member of the Student Leadership Advisory Council. She volunteers her time by leading lunchtime and after-school events that support the school’s climate and culture. In addition, Pelayo is also a member of the prestigious National Junior Honor Society.
Dora Espinoza is an outstanding parent leader whose dedication to Arrowview is inspiring. As President of School Site Council and English Learner Advisory Council, she advocates for students and families by attending District meetings, sharing important information and serving on the District-level committees. By balancing these contributions while caring for her own children, Espinoza exemplifies leadership, compassion and service.
Secretary III Iyeida Bernal ensures the school runs smoothly, supporting teachers, families and students alike. Her ability to build meaningful relationships with students, respond promptly to parents and ensure staff have what they need makes her an irreplaceable mentor and leader. She truly makes the entire school SHINE.
Librarian Zaide Casillas exemplifies SBCUSD’s Operational Values through her commitment to equity, safety, collaboration, professionalism and innovation. Drawing from her special education background, she ensures all students feel valued, supported and challenged to succeed while fostering pride, resilience and inclusion throughout the school community.
Cajon High School, Principal Dr. Christopher Jackson honored Joshua Pierce who Jackson noted represents something valued deeply at Cajon—growth, character and the kind of presence that lifts everyone around him. He is a dedicated athlete, competing on both the football and track teams, and he serves as a Link Leader, mentoring younger students and helping them find their place. Quite simply, he embodies what it means to be a Cajon Cowboy.
In the classroom, Makaylie Poot maintained an impressive 4.6 GPA while fully immersed in one of the most rigorous International Baccalaureate course loads Cajon offers. Her commitment to learning is matched by her discipline, focus and quiet determination to continually push herself to higher levels. Poot carries herself with grace and kindness that embodies being Cajon Built, World Ready.
Wonder Poynter is an Outstanding Parent. As President of Cajon’s African-American Parent Advisory Committee, Poynter has strengthened community connections, led the Black Excellence Gala and expanded outreach for students and families. From leading morning marches at Hillside Elementary to uplifting all Cowboys, she shows up with purpose and positivity. We are stronger because of her.
Outstanding Secretary III Leticia Hernandez leads through example with unmatched dedication, often staying far beyond her eight-hour day. Her steady presence, professionalism and care for others make her a calming and guiding force for the entire Cowboy team. Cajon is deeply grateful for her unwavering commitment to students and staff.
Program Facilitator William Pomfret exemplifies the District’s Operational Values through his innovation, professionalism and commitment to continuous improvement. He believes in the potential of every student and builds systems that promote equity, collaboration and clarity. His resilience and forward-thinking approach help create a safe, organized environment where students and staff can thrive.