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Blue Ridge board honors Junior Leadership Academy participants and recognizes three retiring district leaders
Summary
The board heard a presentation from students and program staff about the Junior Leadership Academy and presented retirement plaques to Kimberly Dugdale, Dr. Wright and Lauren Webb for long service to the district.
The Blue Ridge Unified School District No. 32 Governing Board recognized the Junior Leadership Academy (JLA) and presented retirement honors to three long-serving district staff during its meeting.
Students and program staff briefly showed a video and described JLA activities. A student, identified in the meeting as Alexis, told the board the two-week Junior Leadership Academy included team-building activities, yoga and mindfulness, a drug-prevention curriculum called Keep a Clear Mind and a day at Red Hawk Ranch. Alexis said the program included visits with elderly residents at Solterra and opportunities to “learn about choices, coping, and safety.” Teacher presenters said the program typically enrolls 25 to 28 students and that an after-school model in April and May helped address transportation barriers.
The board also honored three retirees with plaques and public remarks. Kimberly Dugdale was recognized for 28 years in education; speakers noted her roles as a teacher, test coordinator and, most recently, the district’s finance leader. The plaque cited “dedication to education” and commended her financial leadership and mentorship.
Dr. Wright was honored for 34 years of service, including 11 years as superintendent. Speakers praised his crisis leadership, emphasis on safety, long work hours and staff support, noting his role guiding the district through difficult periods including the COVID pandemic.
Lauren Webb was recognized for 24 years of service as a principal and instructional leader. Colleagues described him as a “servant leader” who knew students’ names and stories, helped staff and was a steady presence for families and teachers.
Board members and staff invited the public to a reception after the meeting to celebrate the retirees and to view the Junior Leadership Academy presentation materials.
