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Claremont Unified School District proudly recognizes Vista Del Valle School Office Manager Cyndi Leier as our Classified Employee of the Year. Cyndi began her service in CUSD in 2002, taking on multiple roles—including Health Services Assistant—before becoming Office Manager in 2008. From the moment families and students step onto campus, Cyndi’s warm presence and compassionate support set the tone for a positive school experience.

Colleagues describe Cyndi as a person who juggles countless tasks behind the scenes while still finding time to pause and help a student or comfort a worried parent. She exemplifies the CUSD Core Value of Excellence through every interaction, remaining calm, caring, and incredibly organized—even in the busiest moments. Her dedication and leadership ensure that Vista Del Valle runs smoothly, leaving a lasting impact on the entire school community.

In addition to this honor, we’re excited to announce that SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union has partnered with CUSD to provide Cyndi with a $500 check in recognition of her exceptional service. We applaud her unwavering devotion to creating a supportive environment for staff, families, and students. Congratulations, Cyndi—thank you for embodying the best of what CUSD stands for!

We are thrilled to announce Sumner Danbury teacher Denise Klinovsky as CUSD’s Teacher of the Year. Denise has been a dedicated member of our district since 1999, continuously sharing her passion for teaching and her willingness to go above and beyond for students, families, and colleagues. She welcomes new ideas and consistently participates in workshops, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and a deep desire to see her school community flourish.

Colleagues describe Denise as an educator who truly lives the CUSD core values—excellence, equity, innovation and integrity. Whether collaborating with special education teachers or sharing newfound strategies with fellow staff, Denise brings contagious enthusiasm to every project she touches. Her efforts help foster an environment where every student feels valued and motivated, a testament to her role as a teacher and a mentor.

On top of this well-deserved recognition, Denise will receive a $500 check courtesy of SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, a new partner supporting our Employees of the Year. It’s clear that Denise’s dedication, creativity, and kindness make her an indispensable part of the Sumner Danbury family—and we couldn’t be prouder to celebrate her outstanding contributions to CUSD!

In February, El Roble Intermediate School's AVID students visited Claremont High School for an exciting opportunity to learn more about their AVID program and experience the high school environment firsthand. This trip was designed for students who have expressed interest in continuing with AVID as they transition to high school.

Claremont Unified School District’s Family Art Nights are back for a third consecutive school year, offering creative, hands-on experiences at our elementary sites while building meaningful connections throughout our community. Initially launched by Jessica Jackman Uy, Arts Education TOSA and Rosa Leong, Senior Liaison of Youth and Family Services, in response to parent feedback from the LCAP Survey, these events provide an evening of art activities that align with our commitment to arts integration and social-emotional learning. Each night brings together teachers, secondary student leaders, and district staff to offer fun and engaging art stations, live performances, and collaborative projects—all inspired by goals in the CUSD Arts Strategic Plan, and funded by our annual Arts Advancement Grant from the Los Angeles Department of Arts and Culture through the LA County Arts Ed Collective.

For the first time, this year’s Family Art Nights feature secondary student involvement, with junior high and high school groups sharing their talents as presenters, performers, and volunteers Whether it’s our new dance teacher Hillary Temple for El Roble and Claremont High, with El Roble dancers, showcasing choreography, Claremont High School’s Project Keynote led by club president Nina Wu providing a soundtrack of instrumental pieces and rhythm games, Thespian Troupe 2129 getting the whole family acting with theatre activities, CHS vocal music students sharing their program and songs, or San Antonio High School Student Council volunteering to create make-and-take art kits and ensure the evenings run smoothly, each event unites younger and older students for a shared celebration of creativity. Educational Services Department, Site Arts Lead Teachers (SALTs), and school staff work hand in hand to support these gatherings coordinated by our Arts Education TOSA—fulfilling parents’ desire for fun, high-quality arts opportunities while cultivating new leadership pathways and relationships between elementary and secondary campuses.

Looking ahead, more schools will host Family Art Nights in the coming months, continuing the tradition of fostering imagination, collaboration, and community across our district. By meeting the interests of families and expanding these opportunities year after year, CUSD underscores its dedication to elevating the arts and supporting our students’ emotional well-being. It’s all part of what makes Claremont Unified a vibrant and inspiring place to learn and grow.

This week, at a Mountain View Elementary surprise assembly, students, staff, and special guests gathered for a heartwarming surprise that highlighted the power of genuine dedication and love for our children. Principal Briana Hawkins welcomed Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Desiree Reyes and Nutrition Services Director Brenda Zarate, along with school mascot Marty and the Mustang Council, to celebrate a person who truly embodies Claremont Unified School District’s core values of Excellence, Equity, Innovation, and Integrity.

Hired as a classified substitute in June 2007, Mrs. Sarina Acosta found her way to Mountain View just a few months later, becoming Cafeteria Manager in October of that same year. She admits she initially took the job to support her daughter’s college tuition but soon discovered her passion for being a “cafeteria lady”—and that passion shines through in her daily work. Whether serving nutritious meals to students or offering a kind word, Mrs. Acosta brings joy and care to everyone she meets, making the Mountain View community a brighter place. In recognition of her unwavering commitment, Principal Hawkins proudly presented Mrs. Acosta with the CUSD Challenge Coin—an emblem of our gratitude for her outstanding service.

Oakmont Elementary’s fourth-grade students in Mr. David Hendrick’s class enjoyed a special visit from Claremont Mayor Corey Calaycay, thanks to a thought-provoking government unit encouraging them to write letters to local leaders. Impressed by the students’ curiosity and well-crafted messages, Mayor Calaycay decided to meet with them in person—an experience that left everyone excited and inspired.

During his visit, the mayor discussed how local government functions, answered students’ questions and encouraged them to explore ways they can serve and uplift their community. From simple everyday actions like helping neighbors to larger efforts like volunteering, the message was clear: civic engagement can take many forms and grow from small acts of kindness. Mayor Calaycay also praised the children’s enthusiasm and thoughtful questions, noting that “they’re on track to be great citizens for our community.”

This memorable event is a testament to how real-world experiences energize classroom learning. By connecting their government studies to an actual community leader, Oakmont students gained a deeper appreciation for civic responsibility and the positive impact young people can have in Claremont—and beyond.

The Claremont High School Girls’ Basketball team secured its third consecutive league title with a 42–38 win over Diamond Bar High School. Led by Interim Head Coach Gentry Robertson, the Wolfpack showcased relentless defense and effective teamwork, earning this year’s crown outright—after sharing the top spot for the previous two seasons.

“It feels good, honestly,” Coach Robertson said. “It’s all about the girls—they’ve worked their tails off, and it shows.” Senior captain Jessica Lopez echoed that excitement, noting how meaningful this achievement is personally and for the entire team. “When I was a freshman, I dreamed of making history, and to do it three times in a row is incredible. Basketball is more than just a sport—these girls are my family.” Congratulations to the CHS Girls’ Basketball team on another remarkable season!

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