Laurel Elementary honors employees at recognition ceremony in East Whittier

The East Whittier City School District (EWCSD) Board of Education held a significant meeting on February 3, 2025, where they celebrated outstanding contributions from staff and discussed pressing issues affecting the district.

The meeting commenced with a heartfelt flag salute led by fifth graders Jason Garcia and Nicholas Solorio, who also shared their pride in their school and community. This was followed by the recognition of exemplary employees, with Angela Serrano named Classified Employee of the Year and Jessica Garcia awarded Teacher of the Year. Principal Roxanne Rivas praised both for their dedication and positive impact on students and staff, highlighting their commitment to fostering a supportive school environment.

In addition to employee recognitions, the board acknowledged staff members who reached significant longevity milestones, celebrating those with 10, 15, 20, and even 25 years of service. This tradition of honoring long-serving employees underscores the district's appreciation for their commitment to education and community.

The meeting also addressed a more serious topic: the potential layoff of classified employees. Joe from the IT department, representing the California School Employees Association (CSEA), expressed concerns about the implications of such layoffs while acknowledging the district's need for fiscal responsibility. This discussion reflects ongoing challenges in balancing budgetary constraints with the need to maintain quality educational support staff.

Board members took the opportunity to commend the efforts of all recognized staff and emphasized the importance of their roles in shaping the educational experience for students. They also highlighted upcoming events, including a leadership summit aimed at empowering student leaders within the district.

As the meeting concluded, the board reinforced its commitment to supporting both staff and students, ensuring that every member of the EWCSD community feels valued and heard. The discussions and recognitions from this meeting serve as a reminder of the dedication within the district and the challenges that lie ahead as they navigate fiscal responsibilities while striving to provide quality education.