Fallbrook trustees honored retiring members and celebrated student reading milestones

The Fallbrook Union Elementary School District Board of Trustees paid tribute to two retiring trustees and celebrated student reading achievements at its December meeting.

Trustees, district leaders and students presented a short video and remarks honoring Mrs. Susan Lundine and Dr. Constance Fish for their years of service and leadership. A sixth‑grade student, Wendy Jose Lucas, and other student speakers credited both trustees with prioritizing literacy and engaging the community in school programs. "Leadership is a critical aspect of Fallbrook Union Elementary School District," Wendy said during the tribute.

Superintendent Monica Hazel thanked the trustees and described progress the district has made under their service, including a renewed focus on reading by third grade and expanded student leadership opportunities. "Our students are making extraordinary progress," Hazel said, noting recent hires and programs intended to support literacy at all grade levels.

The board also recognized students for reading and attendance accomplishments. Officials said students across the district collectively logged more than 2.8 million minutes of reading since the district’s reading tracking began. Principals and classroom teachers nominated top readers from each school and the superintendent invited students to receive commemorative books.

The meeting moved on after the recognitions to regular business and presentations later in the agenda.