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Afterschool programs, alumni champions and student voices draw praise in public comment
Summary
Public commenters at the Oct. 7 board meeting highlighted after‑school and community programs that support students, thanked district staff, and a recent student speaker urged curricular innovation and collaboration with the board.
Multiple speakers used the public‑comment period at the Oct. 7 board meeting to spotlight after‑school programs, community partnerships and student experience.
Barbara Paschek Cox, president of the San Bernardino Teachers Association, opened public comment by urging the board to translate dialogue into action for teachers and students. "Teachers' working conditions are our students' learning conditions," she said, speaking for roughly 3,970 members.
Terry Boykins, executive director of Product by Any Chance, described an upcoming after‑school boxing showcase and a Nov. 22 "Jabathon" at the Ruben Campos Community Center and urged the board to view a video documenting Project Fighting Chance’s work with youth in San Bernardino. He said the program has helped local athletes reach national levels while providing safe after‑school options.
Edwin Delgado, representing San Bernardino County Supervisor Joe Baca Jr., briefed the board on a $1.3 million county investment to improve playgrounds at Arrowhead Elementary and invited board members to a county college and career day this Friday.
Janila Marino, a college student and district product, urged the board to partner on rethinking curriculum to foster innovation rather than produce workers, and asked for collaboration opportunities with district leaders.
Why it matters: The comments underscore the role of community‑based programs and district partnerships in extracurricular supports, college access, and family engagement. Board members acknowledged the presentations and directed staff to follow up when appropriate.
Quotes (attributed): "We are committed to advocating for fair wages, safe workplaces, and above all, the dignity and respect our profession deserves," Barbara Paschek Cox said. Terry Boykins asked the board to "check out the video of the work that your students... have put in after school," and Edwin Delgado noted that Supervisor Baca "proudly championed $1,300,000 to support playground improvements at Arrowhead Elementary School." Janila Marino closed with a call for systemic change: "I come before you with a posture of humility... and the spirit of God as a willing vessel sent to create change for our children."
The board thanked speakers and indicated staff follow‑up if requested contact information was left on comment forms.
