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Last Tuesday evening, Claremont Unified School District’s Women in Leadership event brought together a packed room of students, families, and community members at the Don F. Fruechte Theatre for the Performing Arts. The night featured an inspiring panel of women leaders who shared powerful stories, insights, and lessons from their experiences in business, education, health, and media.

The energy in the room was electric as students listened intently to these remarkable leaders, who spoke from the heart about resilience, courage, and purpose. Guided by thoughtful questions from student ambassadors, the panelists offered an inside look into leading with vision and integrity. For many attendees, the event was more than just a panel; it was an evening of connection, inspiration, and empowerment.

Our CUSD teachers and coaches were intentional about bringing student leaders along to share in the experience. Marissa Martinez, Ed.D., El Roble’s volleyball coach, shared, “I invited our three 8th-grade captains—Tatum Longyear, Abby & Chloe Leeper—as well as our three 8th-grade volleyball managers—Eliana Tabac, Lilian Brown, and Bianca Gary. These young women are leaders on our team and our campus. They exemplify hard work, kindness, respect, and diligence in all they do. They seek ways to be better in all they do, learn, grow, and always take their teammates along.” She added, “They had the BEST time last night! They were beaming, glowing, inspired, and ready to take on the next challenge. I was also super inspired and encouraged. Thank you to everyone involved in putting this event together!”

Those who couldn’t attend in person were able to watch a live stream, which will remain available on the CUSD YouTube channel for anyone who would like to view or revisit the inspiring moments from the evening.

To close the event, the district announced the date for next year’s Women in Leadership event, which will take place on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. We are excited to continue this tradition of inspiring and empowering our students and community.

A big thank you to our outstanding panelists, student ambassadors, teachers, coaches, and everyone who made this event a memorable experience for all involved!

Claremont Unified School District bid a heartfelt farewell to Board President Bob Fass during his last board meeting on October 17. Fass, who was elected in 2020 to represent Trustee Area 5, chose not to seek re-election this November, concluding his tenure with an outpouring of gratitude and respect from colleagues, district officials, and community members. Superintendent Jim Elsasser opened the meeting by recognizing Fass’s dedication, integrity, and commitment to promoting student success, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Elsasser highlighted Fass's leadership through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the completion of the Dr. Brett O'Connor Student Center, the adoption of the CUSD Commitment in 2022, and his unwavering support for students and staff.

Board members, state and local leaders, and community members joined in expressing appreciation for Fass’s service. Board Vice President Kathryn Dunn, a longtime friend of Fass, presented him with an El Roble Intermediate School sweatshirt in a touching nod to their shared alma mater. In his closing remarks, Fass expressed gratitude for his colleagues, family, and the Claremont community, leaving a hopeful note that his work with CUSD may continue in new ways in the future. He thanked everyone for their support and reflected on the impact of the district’s work, saying, “This is likely not a formal goodbye for me, but a farewell for now.” A stirring performance by the CHS Chamber Singers concluded the ceremony, creating a memorable send-off for a valued leader.

Last Wednesday, El Roble Intermediate School hosted its annual PINK OUT, a heartfelt ceremony led by Education Specialist Marissa Martinez, Ed.D., honoring community members who have bravely battled breast cancer. Held in the gym at 3:00 p.m., just before volleyball and football games, students, staff, and families gathered to show their support. Attendees received pink signs reading "I STAND UP FOR," on which they could write the names of loved ones affected by breast cancer. During the ceremony, everyone in the stands, including athletes, held up their signs in a powerful tribute, celebrating the strength and resilience of those who have faced this battle. The PINK OUT concluded with enthusiastic support for Panther victories, embodying the spirit and solidarity of the El Roble community.

The Claremont High School Marching Wolfpack kicked off its competition season with an outstanding performance at Baldwin Park High School last weekend. The Band earned 1st place in their division, while the Guard placed 3rd in Open Class. The students felt proud of their accomplishments and enjoyed the excitement of the evening. They’ll return to compete again in two weeks at Los Altos High School, ready to build on this solid start!

San Antonio High School recently hosted its Triad Celebration, honoring students' outstanding grades. This special event featured a screening of Inside Out 2, giving students a chance to relax and celebrate their hard work. Thanks to generous support from community partners, students enjoyed Chick-fil-A, cookies, and drinks sponsored by Claremont Sunrise Rotary, with popcorn donated by Life as ONE Church. San Antonio High School is proud to recognize these students' achievements and is grateful for the community's support in making this celebration memorable.

San Antonio High School's softball team celebrated an impressive 17-1 victory against a continuation school from West Covina Unified School District. The team was led by Coach Anthony Fontana, who instilled confidence and skills in the players and showed incredible spirit and unity. This diverse group of students, many new to sports, played with passion and dedication, with each member feeling valued and supported. Teacher Andrew Hernandez also lent his support during practices, contributing to the nurturing environment that defines San Antonio. Congratulations to Coach Fontana and the entire team on this fantastic win!

Claremont Unified School District proudly celebrates Maya Rojas, a talented young athlete from Chaparral Elementary School, who, at just 7 years old, has made remarkable strides in water polo. Competing with the 10U team at Foothill Water Polo Club, Maya earned a spot on the USA Junior Olympics 10U Team for 2024. Her journey began with swim lessons at 4 months old, taught by her mother, Jen Cervantes, a former college swimmer and water polo player. Over the past year, Maya has demonstrated outstanding skill and dedication and was awarded the Coaches Award for the 2023-2024 season. Selected to train with Pomona Pitzer’s renowned coaches, Alex Rodriguez and Alex La, Maya embodies teamwork and sportsmanship, motivating her teammates with her positive attitude. We are proud of Maya’s accomplishments and excited to see her continue to excel in the pool. Congratulations, Maya!

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