Chaparral and Great Oak High Schools showcase student initiatives and upcoming events

The Desert Sands Unified School District Governing Board held a regular meeting on March 12, 2025, highlighting student achievements and discussing important educational initiatives. The meeting featured presentations from student representatives of Chaparral High School, Great Oak High School, and Temecula Valley High School, showcasing various events and programs that foster school spirit and community engagement.

Chaparral High School's representatives, Lucas Liu and Jordan Pruitt, shared details about their recent "Pumas 101" event, which introduced incoming middle school students to high school life. They also highlighted the success of their themed CHS showcase, where departments competed for the best presentation, with the performing arts department emerging as the winner. Additionally, they announced the introduction of new dual enrollment classes for the upcoming school year and a spirit week leading up to their spring sports rally.

Great Oak High School's Madison Jantz and Abigail Huth reported on their Unified Track and Field team's success, as well as the postponement of their Riptide Week due to weather conditions. They emphasized the importance of peer support during testing season and shared details about their spring prom expo, which provided students with resources for the upcoming prom.

Temecula Valley High School's representatives, Nicholas Johnson and Kenzie Rodriguez, discussed their upcoming Empty Bowls event aimed at raising funds for a local food pantry. They also celebrated the achievements of their track team, including a record-breaking performance by senior Jack Saddleman. The school recently held ASB elections and is preparing for a film festival showcasing student films from all three high schools.

In addition to student presentations, Edgar Diaz, president of the Temecula Valley Educators Association, addressed the board, highlighting the importance of recognizing educators' contributions through the TVA Ovations program. He also raised concerns about the decline of home economics programs in middle schools and advocated for support of AB 65, which aims to provide maternity leave for educators.

The meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment and recognizing the achievements of both students and staff as they approach the end of the academic year.