Local

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office released a statement last week announcing that Senate Bill (SB) 457 was among a slew of bills sent back to the Legislature without his signature.

SB 457 proposed a $1000 tax credit to California households with zero registered vehicles.

“Addressing climate change is one of our state ‘s highest priorities. We have made historic investments in programs to reduce emissions and improve public transportation. I support approaches to incentivize a transition from vehicles to more sustainable transportation, however the estimated cost to implement this bill is nearly one billion dollars per year and is not accounted for in the budget,” Newsom said in a statement.

Often, when the Governor vetoes a bill it’s because its financial viability is questionable.

Supporters of SB 457 say the legislation was written to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change. With around 28 million vehicles on the road in California, the bill’s author, Sen. Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank), saw a need to incentivize change.

Transportation accounts for 41% of California’s greenhouse gas emissions, more than any other sector of society, according to the California Air Resources Board. The state offers tax rebates of up to $7,000 for purchases of electric vehicles or plug in hybrids.

This bill would have required the Department of Motor Vehicles to provide necessary taxpayer and vehicle information to the Franchise Tax Board for administration of the credit. Built into the legislation was an income limitation of $40,000 for single filers and $60,000 for joint filers.

“We are disappointed to see Newsom veto SB 457, Streets for All’s bill with Senator Portantino to create a $1000 refundable tax credit for low income, car-free families,” said Bubba Fish, legislative advocate for Streets for All. “Newsom argued that the rebate was not fiscally responsible just months after proposing to spend hundreds of millions to pay families for each car they own and suspend the diesel gas tax. The state also rewards EV buyers up to $9500, but gives nothing to families who don’t drive at all. Families that don’t contribute to traffic, traffic violence, or pollution. Where is their rebate? Until the Governor replaces automobile subsidies with real support for alternative modes, his aggressive rhetoric on fighting climate change rings hollow.”

A fiscal analysis initially estimated the bill would cost $900 million in its first year of implementation and $950 million in the second year.

However, updated scrutiny from the Franchise Tax Board shared with Streets For All shows that the first year of implementation would cost $16 million, followed by $900 million in the second year and $950 million in the third year. While it is unclear if these updated numbers would have made a difference in Newsom’s decision, Fish remains hopeful in the future a similar bill will pass.

“We are especially grateful for our coalition of supporters, Senator Portantino, and his staff for all their hard work on this bill,” Fish said. Despite the Governor’s bewildering decision, we are proud of this bill for the conversation it sparked about how to invest in a greener, safer future while centering those who need the most support. We won’t give up on that.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Who’s ready for change? Special Ed teacher Mary Ellen Abilez Grande would leave teaching to serve students in San Bernardino another way should she slip in a win over any incumbents, who voters may decide they want to change.

A Candidate for San Bernardino City Unified School Board Member, Mary Ellen has been endorsed by the Inland Empire Labor Council and COPE. At The Chicago NEA Convention this past July, David Goldberg, CTA Vice President said just one word to Mary Ellen after she shared her plans with him to run against well-established incumbents- “Gutsy!” She raised 3 daughters as a single mom, all graduates of SBCUSD.

Mary Ellen Abilez Grande is a seasoned educator dedicated to all students, and a creative team leader with the ability to inspire efficacy in others. As an advocate for students and peers, in the community and in the K12 system, she actively engaged in promoting contemporary solutions for education.

“My resume includes academic and professional degrees and credentials, reflects training in the current issues of today, and many other roles within our community. I believe I have always been in service of inspiring students within the educational environment. My now twenty years of serving students in the K-12 classroom, has given me a personal perspective, understanding, empathy and knowledge of students, their parents, and the home,” says Mary Ellen.  “I have also been directly impacted by board policies, and while I honor those efforts, I believe that I and my skill set in collaboration, empathy, and mind for efficacy is an asset.”

Not being afraid to share the platform, Mary Ellen will be holding a meet and greet Wednesday, October 19, 2022, for all candidates to be able to introduce themselves to community members and share remarks. The meet and greet will be held at the Downtown bar located at 123 N. E Street, San Bernardino, CA starting at 7:00 pm ending at 9:00 pm. Light refreshments will be provided along with live jazz music from the house band. For more information on how to participate please visit website listed below.

The elections will take place on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Vote Mary Ellen Abilez Grande, A WOMAN FOR CHANGE.

For more information on Mary Ellen Abilez Grande visit Maryellenabilezgrande.Democrat.

RIALTO, CA—- Rialto City Council candidate Kelly Erving’s platform has five priorities: help the homeless, enhance public safety, grow local business, ensure a living wage for Rialto workers, and improve the city’s infrastructure. Her campaign slogan reflects these initiatives: “Committed to the Community.”

“If elected to City Council, my objective is to seek innovative, yet achievable, solutions to Rialto’s challenges,” said Dr. Erving. She proposes to tackle the homeless challenge by working with local nonprofit organizations to get them off the streets and into stable living quarters.

Erving works with the underserved and vulnerable subsets of society on a daily basis as an employee of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services. “I am committed to seeing that every Rialto worker, public or private, is paid a living wage. I want the City to provide improved infrastructure, enhanced public safety and attractive incentives that encourage the growth of local businesses.”

Dr. Erving’s academic credentials include a Master of Public Administration; a B.A. in Political Science (with a minor in Women’s Studies), and a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership.

Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson and several others have endorsed Erving, seeing her as a “Go-To” expert in operations, policy analysis and the implementation of county, state, and federal programs and policies.

“I am dedicated to the City of Rialto and all of its residents; I chose to reside in Rialto due to its limitless potential and the diversity of its residents,” said Kelly Erving

For more information on Kelly Erving’s candidacy, visit her website at Kelly4RialtoCC.com.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) has launched Family Resource Centers at five school sites.

“At County Schools, our educators and staff understand we must support the whole child,” said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. “In addition to providing students with an exceptional education in the classroom, we are continuing to find innovative ways to deliver health services, nutrition and home support.”

The Family Resource Centers are available to students and their families Monday through Friday during school hours at Bob Murphy County Community School, Tri-City County Community School, Barbara Phelps County Community School, David Stine Chaffey West County Community School and Victorville Education Center.

Resources include The Market, which provides boxes of nonperishable groceries to students and their families.

From April through August, SBCSS provided nearly 2,000 boxes of food.

“The food boxes that they had over COVID was wonderful because they came with laundry soap, shampoo, conditioner, cleaning products, toothbrushes, band-aids, stuff that we couldn’t afford at the time, so it helped out tremendously,” said Melissa Bell-Elie, mother of a 15-year-old student attending Bob Murphy County Community School.

She says her family continues to take advantage of the food boxes offered at the school sites. Each month, the contents of these boxes’ changes.

“It makes a big difference, at least a 30% difference in the household as far as what I don’t have to financially pay for,” said Bell-Elie.

SBCSS partnered with Hazel Health to provide students and families with quick access to equitable telehealth care. Families are able to have their blood pressure and temperature checked in-person and may even secure same-day virtual doctors’ visits from school or at home.

In addition, each campus is equipped with a washer and dryer, which students and families may use for their laundry.

The Family Resource Centers will also provide expanded learning opportunities after school at each site, once a week.

Selected students may participate in an academy that focuses on leadership training and substance use prevention education so that they can serve as peer leaders on campus.

For more news and information, visit the SBCSS Newsroom and follow us @SBCountySchools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. #transforminglives.

First 5 San Bernardino, well-known for its 23-year history of investing in children from prenatal through five years, is launching a new and innovative funding opportunity.

Local organizations seeking financial support to initiate or develop programs or ideas aligning with First 5 San Bernardino’s strategic plan are encouraged to apply for funding through the organization’s request for applications process https://first5sanbernardino.org.

“This is an amazing opportunity, especially for smaller-sized organizations who may already be collaborating with each other, to apply for funding to address critical issues and needs facing young children and their families,” said First 5 San Bernardino Executive Director Karen E. Scott. “Further, we’re hoping it may spark additional creative thinking on how to engage with families and the community in identifying and meeting needs as possible, which is exactly why the initiative was created.”

Named after a beloved staff member who recently lost her battle with cancer, the Merceides Logans Community Innovation Initiative is a $1.5 million fund designated to foster a progressive yet simplified approach for community organizations to obtain resources and work together.

A typical funding application process can be overwhelming for some organizations, explained Ronnie Robinson, first 5 San Bernardino section manager of systems and communication. “This opportunity was designed to be easier to navigate, and we invite community organizations, churches, small nonprofits and those with similar or shared interests in helping children, to apply,” Robinson said.

The Social Lites, Inc., of the Inland Empire is now preparing for their annual program. In their 60 years they have awarded more than two million dollars in scholarships to deserving and underserved youth in the Inland Empire area.  Please help them find these youth in preparing them for college or trade schools.  The organization meets in San Bernardino on Sundays for a few impactful hours. Help them make a difference in their lives with money to have access to a college experience with less debt. Please call Marlene Davis (909) 709-5502 , Sheri Lewis (909)320-0799  or Elsie Paulino (951)205-8823 for more information and the meeting times and dates.

By Maxim Elramsisy | California Black Media

On the last night of this year’s legislative session last week, the State Assembly rejected Senate Bill (SB) 918, authored by state Sen. Anthony Portantino (D-La Cañada Flintridge). The bill — written to strengthen restrictions on concealed firearm permits – was one of several bills the Legislature did not approve during the tension-filled finale to a session marked by pointed debate among members of the Assembly’s Democratic majority.

Before the final vote, supporters of the legislation added an Urgency amendment so it could go into effect immediately — instead of Jan. 1, 2023, when bills passed during the current legislative session take effect.

As an Urgency Measure, SB 918 required 54 votes in the Assembly to pass, rather than the usual 41. The bill received 53 votes which is more than enough votes needed to reach the Governor’s desk had the urgency amendment not been added.

Last June, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen that “may carry” laws giving states discretionary authority to reject concealed carry permits violated the Second Amendment. The decision rendered California’s law requiring applicants to show “good cause,” or a justifiable reason for needing such a permit unconstitutional.

In his opinion on the case, Justice Clarence Thomas, wrote that states could still prohibit guns in “sensitive places.” Chief Justice John Roberts, joined by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, wrote in a concurring opinion that the ruling did not affect “shall issue” laws requiring objective licensing requirements such as “fingerprinting, a background check, a mental health records check, and training in firearms handling, and in laws regarding use of force, among other possible requirements.”

SB 918 complies with the Supreme Court ruling by designating courts, places of worship, zones around schools, hospitals, public parks, libraries, airports, public transportation and bars as sensitive places. The bill requires authorities to review publicly available statements including social media to assess whether applicants present a danger to the public.

Applicants would be required to submit to in-person interviews to ensure they are “qualified,” and licensing officials will be required to interview at least three-character references. The state would also give licensing officials, usually a sheriff’s office, greater ability to revoke a license.

Initially, leaders believed that the measure had enough support to pass with an urgency amendment allowing it to go into effect this month. After the bill passed the Senate with a super majority (2/3) of the votes, it failed to gain a super majority vote in the State Assembly. Seven Democratic Assemblymembers voted against the bill or abstained from voting.

Notably, two Democratic members, Adam Gray (D-Merced) and Rudy Salas (D-Bakersfield) who are running for Congress in swing Central Valley districts may have felt the possibility of a political backlash by supporting gun control measures. Retiring Assemblymember Patrick O’Donnell (D-Long Beach), voted against the measure, though he was expected to support it.

“I’m very disappointed in the outcome,” the bill’s author, Portantino told California Black Media. “But for one assembly member who switched their vote from aye to no, we would have had the 54 votes. I plan on reintroducing the bill on December 5. I’ve already spoken to the governor and the Attorney General.”

If it had passed, the bill was likely to face legal challenges because many critics believe that it is too restrictive. The requirement of interviews and character references are points of contention for gun rights groups.

For Gov. Gavin Newsom prioritizing gun control measures is still a leading priority in this legislative term, responding to an uptick of gun violence across the country. As of Sept. 2, the Gun Violence Archive reports 450 mass shootings in 2022, compared to 417 in all of 2019.

“California has the toughest gun safety laws in the nation, but none of us can afford to be complacent in tackling the gun violence crisis ravaging our country,” said Newsom. “These new measures will help keep children safe at school, keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people and responsibly regulate the sale of firearms in our communities.”

Though defeated in this attempt to regulate concealed firearms, Newsom has a number of notable legislative victories, including AB 2571, which restricts the marketing of firearms to children and AB 1594, which strips gun manufacturers of some legal protections when their products are used to commit acts of violence. SB 1327 and AB 1621 target ghost guns by restricting their manufacture, transportation and sale and close the loophole that allowed sale of incomplete and un-serialized “firearm precursors.”

As gun violence plagues the country, the tug-of-war between gun rights and gun regulations on a local and national level will likely continue. Although California has some of the toughest gun laws in the country, the Legislature has yet to find a solution for concealed carry permits.

“Together, all of the gun laws that we passed make California safer,” Portantino said, “though not having a CCW (concealed weapons permit) consistent with the Supreme Court decision hurts California, which is why I’m committed to bringing it back on December 5.”

By Manny Otiko | California Black Media

The COVID-19 virus was discovered in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. To date, over 90 million cases have been recorded and more than 1 million Americans have died from the disease. After more than two years, COVID-19 doesn’t look like it’s going away.

President Joe Biden’s positive test last month for the disease illustrates that COVID-19’s transmissibility is an ongoing and persistent problem.

Biden, who was treated with the antiviral drug Paxlovid, isolated himself for 5 days and returned to work after testing negative. Then, a few days later, he tested positive again and went back into isolation until he tested negative about a week ago.

Because the President is vaccinated, he suffered mild symptoms. However, the rebound positivity he’s experienced shows more needs to be done to eliminate coronavirus.

While vaccines and past infections have enabled the U.S. population to develop what is described as substantial COVID-19 immunity and those who get sick have a number of effective treatments options, cases of people being infected with new mutations of COVID-19 continue to be reported.

Dr. Ben Neuman, professor of Biology and chief virologist of the Global Health Research Complex, Texas A&M University, has studied the coronavirus and found that it’s constantly changing. That is a major reason people continue to be infected with the disease, he says.

During a recent Ethnic Media Services COVID-19 panel discussion with other medical scientists and researchers, Neuman said that people vaccinated against previous variations of the virus are not fully protected against the new variations. According to him, immunity to the current versions of the virus depends on how recently someone had been vaccinated.

“We are still vaccinating against the 2019 virus, and it is now late 2022. We have a problem……This is a virus that will continue changing,” he said.

Infections caused by Omicron sub variants have been reported to be not as dangerous as ones caused by earlier coronavirus strains, but they appear to be more transmissible.

If Neuman’s predictions are correct, by the time a vaccine is developed to fight the BA.5 subvariant, which is currently responsible for 85.5 % of infections in the US, there will already be a new subvariant spreading the disease.

Neuman added that it is still important to protect yourself with masks and by washing your hands. While he has been vaccinated, he recently tested positive for the coronavirus while after being on an airline and failing to adhere to proper masking protocol.

Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a professor of medicine at the University of California San Francisco, who specializes in treating infectious diseases, stressed the importance of continuing to follow preventative measures when he spoke during the panel discussion.

Chin-Hong pointed out that one problem with implementing a mask mandate is political will. He cited the example of Los Angeles County, which recently considered reintroducing a mask mandate because of rising infection numbers, but cancelled implementation when cases declined. Had the mandate been
imposed, the County sheriff said they would not enforce it which would have been problematic.

Unfortunately, the mask issue has become a political problem and few politicians want to take it on and risk the wrath of voters.

Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville discussed how prevalent the disease is and how strict adherence to preventative measures does not assure protection against mutations of the coronavirus.

Schaffner and his wife tested positive despite being fully vaccinated and were treated with Paxlovid and, unlike Biden, they did not experience a rebound occurrence of the virus.

Chin-Hong said the pandemic will eventually end. But that will only happen when we create the conditions where there are no new host bodies to develop variations of the coronavirus.

Currently, about 400 people are dying every day from COVID-19. That averages out to more than 100,000 deaths every year.

“Right now, we have too many deaths,” he said. “We shouldn’t accept that.”

Chin-Hong also predicted that in the future we might see an annual COVID-19 shot to ward off the disease.

Schaffner agreed and said that we should learn to manage the disease with vaccinations, medications and preventive measures.

“COVID will be with us for the foreseeable future,” he said.

REDLANDS, CA— “I have been asked many times, how and why did The Salvation Army start ringing those silver bells during the Christmas season to encourage donations,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “Well, this is how it all began…

Captain Joseph McFee, serving with the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps in 1891, wanted to serve Christmas dinner to the poor in his neighborhood. But he didn’t have money to do so.

As a sailor in Liverpool, England, Captain McFee saw people on the docks throw money into a large kettle called “Simpson’s Pot” to help the poor. He decided this might work in California too.

Captain McFee set up a kettle at the Oakland Ferry Landing, which operated a ferry that was, in those days, the only way across San Francisco Bay. He put a sign on the kettle saying, “Keep the Pot Boiling” and raised enough money to serve the Christmas dinner.

His idea spread quickly, and by 1897 Salvation Army Corps nationwide were collecting money in kettles to serve the needy in their communities. Among the Salvation Army Corps collecting money this way before the turn of the 20th Century was The Salvation Army of San Bernardino, which was formed in 1887.

Lynn Valbuena, Chair of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, is the keynote speaker at this year’s Red Kettle Kick-Off event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle 2022 Christmas campaign on Thursday, November 17^th at 5:30 PM.

Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868.  Donors may drop off turkeys, hams other food, cash or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands California 92373

About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.

The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination.  They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- On Tuesday, September 20, 2022, the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents, and staff at Cajon High School, Holcomb Elementary School, the Kendall-Harmon School complex, and Shandin Hills Middle School.

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to build self-esteem and 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.

The September 20 Board meeting marked the first time since the COVID pandemic that the awards have been presented in person.

Cajon High School, Principal Teenya Bishop:
Zoe Campbell is a senior and Outstanding Student. Zoe takes so much pride in her work and always gives her best. In addition to her academic excellence, she has the most amazing personality! She is loved by the Cajon staff, and her peers look up to her. Zoe aspires to create and produce films. She plans to attend NYU, Spelman College, or Clark Atlanta University.

Jorge Ramos is a junior and Outstanding Student. In his time at Cajon, Jorge has made his mark as an award-winning member of two academic teams. He has ranked nationally in Speech & Debate since his freshman year and was named Outstanding Delegate his first year in Model UN. He’s clearly on his way to being a future leader in San Bernardino.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Micaela Escobar has been an active parent and advocate for her own child and all Cajon children, particularly in ensuring students have access to rigorous courses and the social emotional support they need to persevere and do well in those courses. Whenever Micaela sees a need, she works to develop solutions to make Cajon better.

Secretary I Tanisha Slaughter is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Tanisha’s commitment to Cajon is untouchable. When she sees a need, she is always willing to fill in the gap. She is resourceful, customer friendly, solution oriented, and adaptable. Throughout her career, she has served in different capacities, and she uses her skills to enhance the overall school program.

Outstanding Certificated Employee Roger Light develops student leaders through his rigorous auto shop program, building their skills and knowledge to run an auto repair shop for staff. Roger’s program is set to receive Silver Certification through the Linked Learning Alliance this winter, and one member of the certification team stated Roger’s auto shop is one of the best he has seen in the nation.

Holcomb Elementary School, Principal Eva Haddad:
Connor Leedom is a 1st-grader and Outstanding Student. Connor works hard and shows empathy for others both in and out of the classroom. He is always willing to patiently help those who need support, once again demonstrating kindness to others. Connor’s academics are so strong in all areas that the Holcomb team believes he can and will achieve any goal he sets for his future.

Shawn McKenzie is a 4th-grader and Outstanding Student. Shawn is a caring and kind scholar, always willing to help his teacher and classmates without being asked. He gives 100% every day and actively participates in classroom discussions. Shawn’s dream is to become an astronaut, but if that doesn’t work out, he wants to be a fireman or a police officer.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Elaheh Karimi is an active member of Holcomb’s English Language Advisory Committee. She participates and shares ideas. Staff can always count on her for support. She is a very actively engaged parent and participates in all parent events, family nights, parent workshops, and more. Elaheh is a vital member of the Holcomb team.

Secretary II Patricia “Patty” Quinonez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Patty has a positive attitude toward her work and comes in with a smile every morning. She has a strong sense of professionalism and provides excellent customer service. She has helped create positive and lasting relationships with the Holcomb community and is a mentor and role model. Holcomb is a better place because of Patty.

Program Facilitator and International Baccalaureate Coordinator Krista Bjur is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. She is committed to always doing what is best for the Holcomb community whether she is serving as admin designee, collaborating with teachers, working with students, or any of her many assignments. She puts her heart into everything, and Holcomb is better for it.

Kendall-Harmon School complex, Principal Megan Silva:
Pre-kindergartener Kairen Brown is an Outstanding Student. Kairen is being honored for his citizenship, academics and for most improvement. He loves books and is always ready to learn something new! He takes great joy in the results of his efforts. Kairen may become a professor or scientist when he is older.

Airie Kaya Phomello is a transitional kindergartener and Outstanding Student. Airie is becoming more independent and self-sufficient. She is able to follow routines and directions and wait patiently. Airie’s communication skills have also improved significantly. Airie likes to be the teacher in class and takes the lead at circle time. It’s safe to assume she’s a future teacher.

Fifth-grader Emily Soria is an Outstanding Student. Emily is always on task and volunteers during class. She assists her classmates, even volunteering to help them at home to catch up on missing assignments. She is reading above grade level and understands all the math concepts so far. Emily would like to be an artist and attend California State University, San Bernardino.

Charles Michael Sullivan is a 5th-grader and an Outstanding Student. Charles has great hospitality skills. He has a wonderful personality, a warm smile, and is a great classroom helper. He is helpful and willing to assist all of his classmates. Charles loves pretending to be a fast food worker, so he may own his own fast food restaurant or become a fast food manager.

Eddy Garcia is the Outstanding Parent Award winner for Kendall and Harmon. Eddy is a dedicated parent and member of the Harmon School Site Council/Leadership Team. He has represented Harmon on a few District-level task force groups. His input, knowledge, and overall commitment to supporting Harmon are valued assets to the school community.

Outstanding Grandparent Janice Wall is an active member of the Kendall-Harmon community. She serves on the School Site Council and is a member of the African American Parent Advisory Committee. We admire and appreciate her commitment to Kendall and Harmon and her input, as well as her commitment to her grandchildren.

Recreation Aide Yvette Carranza is an Outstanding Classified Employee. She volunteers to provide support wherever it is needed. She assists teachers with setting up classrooms and the librarian assistant with inventorying District-issued devices. Yvette has worked collaboratively with the community to ensure the school supports families in need during the holiday season.

Randie Zamudio is an Education Assistant III–Severe Impairment and an Outstanding Classified Employee. Randie is a true team player and goes above and beyond to support her Harmon team, as well as the needs of her Kendall colleagues. When called upon to provide support with any task or event, she never hesitates and always puts in 100% effort and pride.

First-grade Inclusion Teacher Catherine Cowles is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. She has a positive passion for helping students and goes above and beyond to embody Kendall and Harmon’s vision of providing a safe, productive, and innovative learning environment for all students. Catherine takes the time to learn what each scholar needs and makes it happen.

Cecilia Quintero is a SH/SDC Special Education Preschool Teacher and an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Her positive passion drives her instruction. She celebrates her scholars’ achievements every day, and her enthusiasm is evident as soon as you enter her learning environment. Cecilia establishes positive home-school connections and families to take an active role in their scholar’s education.

Shandin Hills Middle School, Principal Victoria Flores:
Eighth-grader Bradley McGee is an Outstanding Student and the sunshine of Shandin Hills. He is always happy, respectful, caring and has a zest for life. Bradley is an exceptional individual, so it is no surprise he is being honored for his citizenship and congenial nature. For a long time, Bradley wanted to be a YouTuber, but now he is considering other options.

Ellie Negrete is a 7th-grader and an Outstanding Student. Ellie has a strong work ethic, incredible grit, and a drive to improve. She is a student athlete, and after she completes her school work, she puts that same grit and determination into her athletic journey. Ellie has a twin with exceptional needs. This drives Ellie to want to be either a special education teacher or a therapist.

Tiffanie Guinane is an Outstanding Community Member. Tiffanie is without a doubt the most encouraging individual one will ever meet. She is friendly and brings out the best in everyone she comes into contact with. She encourages not only her own child but all the students at Shandin Hills. She does not allow anyone to walk past without giving them a greeting, a hug, a word of encouragement or sound advice, and always with a huge smile. Everyone needs a Tiffanie in their life.

Secretary Debbie Turley is an Outstanding Employee and the mama Trojan. She knows what everyone needs and is always one step ahead of the game. She is quick to get her hands dirty or just lend an ear when someone needs help. Without Debbie in the front office, things would just not run as smoothly. Debbie always puts the community first.

Anel Ortega is a Counselor and Outstanding Certificated Employee. She understands the needs of the students and works tirelessly to meet their needs and the needs of the families she works with. Anel is a problem solver and a team player. She is committed to her job as a counselor and works diligently to make a difference in the lives of others.