Lemon Grove board nominates three district programs for CSBA Golden Bell Awards

The Lemon Grove School District board unanimously approved nominations of three district programs for the California School Boards Association Golden Bell Awards: the San Miguel Leader/Leader in Me program (student engagement and empowerment), culturally and historically responsive teaching (equitable student outcomes), and the expanded learning chess program (expanded learning and engagement).

Superintendent Vincent presented the nomination packets, noting the district may submit a maximum of three programs. Trustees praised the programs during discussion: Trustee Miller called the choice “a no‑brainer,” and multiple trustees described seeing tangible student benefits, including public‑speaking development and improved focus attributed to the chess program.

Trustees asked the superintendent to work with site and district leaders to prepare formal applications. Trustee Miller moved the nomination, Trustee Smith seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

Trustees and the superintendent discussed framing for the applications, with suggestions to include site visits, student work samples and program outcomes to strengthen nominations. The board expects the superintendent’s office to submit the Golden Bell applications on behalf of the district and to return with updates if the district is selected.

The board did not vote on awards or funding related to the programs; the action taken at the meeting was a formal nomination and authorization to submit applications to CSBA.