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Pomona Unified spotlit for national service‑learning honor; district highlights attendance gains and Sky Schools breathing program
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Summary
Pomona Unified celebrated national recognition for service‑learning and highlighted attendance improvements, a student poster contest, and a Sky Schools breathing program the board said supports student wellness and classroom focus.
Pomona Unified School District trustees opened their Nov. 12 meeting by recognizing the district’s selection as one of six districts nationwide for the National Gold Ribbon School District in service learning and noting a Youth Service of America Award Distinction for student service programs. A staff presenter said the recognition reflects districtwide programs that let students "identify real world problems, collaborate with community leaders, and build solutions" and acknowledged teacher specialists Joseph Shim and Claudia Ruelas for their leadership.
District staff also reported steady attendance gains. Director Cesar Casarubias told the board that districtwide chronic absenteeism is projected at about 16 percent and, at the current pace, “will drop another 7% by the end of the school year.” Casarubias announced an attendance poster contest that drew 93 entries and named 12 winners whose framed posters will be displayed at their school sites.
Trustees and staff then introduced a Sky Schools "Sky Breathing" presentation, which included a video and student remarks. A Sky Schools representative and several students described breathing techniques — including so‑called "victory breath" and "straw breath" — that students and staff said helped reduce anxiety and improve focus. One student told the board the practice helped them "relax even when I was doing my test or trying to study for my homework." Superintendent Darren Knowles and multiple trustees praised the program and the district’s expanding school mental‑health services.
Why it matters: The awards and programs underscore the district’s investment in whole‑child supports — attendance outreach, school mental‑health services, and social‑emotional learning — which trustees said are connected to academic engagement and safety. District leaders said the programs are supported through a combination of LCAP funding and partnerships with local universities and community groups.
What’s next: The board encouraged families to attend the Pomona High winter concert on Dec. 11 at the Fox Theater and noted a Sky Schools parent session scheduled for Nov. 18. The district will display winning artwork at school sites and continue monitoring attendance trends.
