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Board awards Joe Howell Legacy Scholarship to student Juan Teo
Summary
The Santa Barbara County Board of Education presented the 2026 Joe Howell Legacy Scholarship to Juan Teo, a Dos Puertas student and recent Santa Maria High School graduate, recognizing his resilience and community contributions. The recipient described the award as "hope" and cited a goal to pursue plumbing as a career.
The Santa Barbara County Board of Education presented its 2026 Joe Howell Legacy Scholarship to Juan Teo, a former Dos Puertas student and recent graduate of Santa Maria High School. Board members said the award recognizes students served by juvenile court and community schools who have shown determination and resilience.
Superintendent Salcedo thanked donors and the selection committee and said the scholarship is an investment in the student's future. Michael Fuentes, a teaching assistant who worked with the recipient at Dos Puertas School, praised the student's turnaround and said, "When challenges come is where he meets them with determination." The recipient, who addressed the board after receiving a certificate, flowers and a scholarship check, said the award represents "hope" and that "everyone deserves a 2nd chance." He told trustees the scholarship meant more than the $500 award and that his goal is to become a plumber so he can support his family.
Board members, including the scholarship namesake Joe Howell, said the committee's unanimous choice reflects the student's character and community support. The board recessed briefly after the presentation for photos and to celebrate before returning to the regular agenda.
