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The Claremont Unified School District takes immense pride in celebrating San Antonio High School's long-standing tradition of hosting a community Thanksgiving meal. This annual event, a hallmark of the school's commitment to community spirit and inclusivity, has been a part of SAHS for more than 19 years, with Ana Avilez playing a pivotal role in its organization.

The Thanksgiving Feast at SAHS is more than just a meal; it symbolizes unity and care within the school community. Each year, the event draws together students, staff, and families from across the district, fostering a sense of belonging and shared gratitude. The preparation for this feast is a significant undertaking, beginning in the early morning hours. While the turkeys, the meal's centerpiece, are prepared by dedicated staff members like Ana Avilez, the CUSD Nutrition Services team contributes by creating various delicious side dishes. 

Ana Avilez says, "What makes this event special is its impact on the students. For many, this feast may be their primary opportunity to experience a traditional Thanksgiving meal." The joy and satisfaction seen on the smiling faces of the students directly reflect the event's significance. Last year alone, the feast welcomed around 100 participants, showcasing its popularity and the warmth it brings to the school community.

This Thanksgiving, the Claremont Unified School District community came together to support families in need through the annual Season of Giving initiative. With generous contributions from the Claremont Police Foundation, Endless Fitness, the Claremont community, and dedicated CUSD staff, 70 families received turkeys and groceries to prepare a full Thanksgiving meal.

While many families picked up their baskets on Monday, volunteers delivered meals to those unable to pick them up. Two families required cooked meals, and Endless Fitness owner Darlene Berg, along with Monique Baca-Geary, stepped up to prepare and provide these meals, ensuring the families could celebrate Thanksgiving with ease. The cooked meals were picked up just in time for the holiday.

The Season of Giving tradition exemplifies the spirit of community and compassion that defines Claremont. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who participated and helped make this effort a success. 

The TRACKS Activity Center (TAC) and the Youth Activity Center (YAC) came together for the annual Giving Thanks Dinner, creating a heartwarming event highlighting community connections and gratitude. On the Thursday before Thanksgiving, members of the City Council, CUSD Board of Education, and Claremont Police Department served meals to students, making the evening a memorable celebration of togetherness.

TAC, which serves middle school teens with activities like Ping-Pong, foosball, art projects, and peer support groups, joined forces with YAC to welcome students to this special event. From 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, students enjoyed a delicious meal and had the opportunity to interact with community leaders, fostering connections that reflect the spirit of the season.

This collaborative effort between TAC and YAC underscored their shared mission of supporting Claremont’s youth through safe, welcoming spaces. The Giving Thanks Dinner was a powerful reminder of the impact of coming together as a community, and we are grateful to everyone who made this event a success.

San Antonio High School is proud to unveil new signage in front of the main office and along W. San Jose Avenue, enhancing the campus's visibility and school spirit. The updated signs prominently feature the school's lion mascot, reinforcing the pride and identity of the San Antonio community. This improvement helps distinguish the campus as a school and serves as a welcoming symbol for students, staff, and visitors. Go Lions!

Claremont High School's Marching Wolfpack Band and Color Guard made history this season, not only by qualifying for the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association (SCSBOA) Championships for the first time since 2003 but by achieving their highest ranking ever. Competing against 12 schools, the Marching Wolfpack secured an impressive 4th place finish, earning an overall score of 81.2, the highest score in CHS history.

This incredible accomplishment is a testament to the hard work of the students, staff, and directors who poured their energy and creativity into this performance season. Their fall show, Out of the Box, captivated audiences and judges alike, solidifying the Marching Wolfpack as a force to be reckoned with in championship competition.

Burke Shouse, Instrumental Music Director, shared, "Our kids killed it at Championships last week! I'm super proud of these kids, and the season they worked so hard for." The Marching Wolfpack's success has brought tremendous pride to the CHS community and serves as an inspiration to all.

Congratulations to the band and color guard for an unforgettable, record-breaking season!

Claremont Unified School District proudly celebrates sixth-grader Margaret Medero from Sycamore Elementary, whose inspiring advocacy led to the district-wide switch from Styrofoam to compostable lunch trays. Margaret first presented her case to the school board in September, highlighting the environmental impact of Styrofoam and urging CUSD to follow the sustainable example set by other districts, like LA Unified, which phased out Styrofoam 12 years ago. Thanks to Margaret’s determined efforts, Nutrition Services Director Brenda Zarate and her team prioritized this switch, and starting this fall, all CUSD school lunches will now be served on eco-friendly trays. Principal Amy Stanger praised the decision, noting it reflects a ripple of positive impact throughout the district. Margaret’s collaboration with Sustainable Claremont and her engagement with district leadership underscores the power of student voices in shaping a sustainable future. Congratulations to Margaret on her impactful accomplishment!

Claremont High School cheerleader Kori Epling has made history by becoming the first in the school’s program to achieve All-American status every year of her high school career. All-American is a prestigious title awarded to select cheerleaders at Varsity Cheer Camps nationwide. Kori’s journey began as a freshman during a pandemic-altered camp experience, where she stood out as the only freshman nominee. As a sophomore, she was one of four varsity members chosen. In her junior year, at a more competitive camp, she continued to excel as one of five varsity cheerleaders named All-American. Finally, in her senior year, not only was Kori selected, but for the first time, all of the Claremont cheerleaders who were nominated were also chosen to be All-Americans.

All-Americans earn opportunities to perform at events like USA Nationals and international parades in Pearl Harbor, London, and Rome. Kori attended the Pearl Harbor parade with teammate Jayden Garcia last year, marking a significant milestone for CHS Cheer. Her dedication and achievements have paved the way for future Claremont cheerleaders, proving that this remarkable accomplishment is within reach every year. Congratulations to Kori for her exceptional leadership and inspiring legacy!

Claremont Unified School District proudly recognizes Patrick McKee, Director of the Foothill Consortium Induction Program, as the prestigious You Are The Commitment Award recipient. With over 25 years of experience in education, Patrick has served as an elementary school teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, university instructor, and currently as TK-12 Director of Teacher & Administrator Induction. His dedication to fostering exceptional educators and leaders has left an indelible mark on CUSD and beyond.

Since 2019, Patrick has led the Foothill Consortium Induction Program collaboratively and compassionately, ensuring remarkable completion rates for CUSD teachers and administrators. Under his leadership, the program has been streamlined to support first-year educators by connecting meaningful induction work to their daily teaching practices. Patrick has expanded the mentor network, providing induction candidates with compassionate and knowledgeable support. His mentorship has been life-changing for many, with induction completers praising his leadership as transformative and attributing their success to his guidance and encouragement.

Patrick's passion for equitable and exceptional education shines in every aspect of his work. He believes that quality education begins with the growth of quality educators, and his efforts to nurture that growth align perfectly with CUSD's core values. On behalf of the Board of Education, we are honored to present Patrick McKee with the You Are The Commitment Award, celebrating his unwavering dedication to empowering educators and supporting student success. Congratulations, Patrick!

Claremont Unified School District proudly recognizes Breanna Amegin as the recipient of the 2024-2025 Certificated Spotlight on Excellence. Bre joined CUSD in 2016 as a teacher at El Roble Intermediate School, where she served for eight years. Her transition to the Educational Services Department as a Teacher on Special Assignment in 2023, a testament to her adaptability and commitment to growth. Known for her strong work ethic, innovative thinking, and solutions-oriented approach, Bre has earned the admiration and respect of her colleagues, students, and families.

Her professionalism, friendliness, and dedication to meeting the needs of others embody the spirit of excellence we celebrate at CUSD. Congratulations, Bre, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your outstanding contributions to our district!

CUSD is thrilled to honor El Roble Intermediate School Office Manager Cindy Eiland as the 2024-2025 Classified Spotlight on Excellence recipient. Cindy has been an invaluable member of the CUSD family since 2004, serving in roles such as Paraeducator, Noon Duty Aide, Clerical Assistant, Attendance Clerk, and now Office Manager. Her colleagues describe her as the backbone of the school, her service having a significant impact on the El Roble Intermediate School community. She is known for going above and beyond to ensure the needs of students, staff, and families are met with care and efficiency.

Cindy’s dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her school community make her a shining example of excellence in CUSD. Congratulations, Cindy, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for your outstanding service!

We are proud to recognize Ann O’Connor, Director of Human Resources & Risk Management, as the inaugural recipient of the Management Spotlight on Excellence award for 2024-2025. Ann’s journey in CUSD began in 2006 as a teacher, a role she excelled in before being promoted to principal and later to a district leadership role. Her colleagues praise her for her kindness, positivity, and unwavering commitment to student-centered decisions. Ann is also celebrated as a trusted mentor who is always responsive and service-oriented.

Ann’s exemplary leadership and dedication to the CUSD community reflect the values of excellence we strive for as a district. Congratulations, Ann, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your exceptional contributions to CUSD!

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