Indio High School student Edgar Magana sworn in as new board member

The Desert Sands Unified School District Board Meeting on February 18, 2025, opened with a heartfelt tribute to Cameron Rowe, the beloved assistant principal of John Glenn Middle School, who tragically passed away over the weekend. Board members and attendees observed a moment of silence in his memory, expressing condolences to his family and colleagues during this difficult time.

In a significant highlight, the meeting welcomed Edgar Magana as the new student board member representing Indio High School. This marks a pivotal moment for the district, as Edgar brings a wealth of experience from his involvement in student leadership roles, including three years in the Associated Student Body (ASB) and community service projects like building gardens for local elementary schools. His enthusiasm for education and community engagement was evident as he shared his interests, including soccer and cooking.

The board also approved the minutes from the previous meeting and addressed a minor error in the meeting agenda, ensuring all members had access to the correct documents. The agenda was subsequently approved unanimously, reflecting a collaborative spirit among board members.

As the meeting progressed, the focus remained on fostering a supportive environment for students and staff, with recognition of the efforts made by the crisis team in response to recent events. The board's commitment to honoring the legacy of educators like Cameron Rowe and empowering student voices through leadership roles like Edgar's underscores the district's dedication to community and education.