Thursday, June 4, 2006 | Volume 40 No 12

WESTSIDESTORY NEWSPAPER

Five Exceptional Leaders Recognized for Positive Impact on Public Education in San Bernardino County tana.

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SAN BERNARDINO, CA--- San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) and the San Bernardino County School Boards Association (SBCSBA) recognized five excep- tional leaders for their outstanding service and support to public education within San Ber- nardino County. The five recipients, represent- ing various areas of the County, were honored during the 2026 Spring Awards ceremony held on Apr. 7 at the Sierra Lakes Golf Club in Fon-

"Whether pitching in on the softball fields, sparking new opportunities, or championing music education, these remarkable leaders have left a lasting imprint on education," said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. "Their leader- ship has made it possible to reach students in every corner of our region, spanning across our urban, rural, desert, and mountain communi- ties. We are incredibly proud to recognize their profound impact and the enduring difference they have made through their work."

The Education Medal of Honor recognizes in dividuals and groups who make exceptional contributions to public education in San Ber- nardino County. It highlights the dedication of educators, community members and business

The Distinguished Service Award honors in- dividuals who have demonstrated long-term, exceptional service and leadership in support of education in San Bernardino County.

The following honorees, selected by an inde- pendent panel, have been recognized for their exceptional commitment and devotion in their respective categories:

Volunteer in Action/Community Volunteer: Joshua Powell

A Needles native and 1998 Needles High School graduate, Powell has made a lasting impact through his dedicated volunteerism and service as a Needles Unified School District board member. He also consistently supports multiple athletic programs by preparing facili- ties, assisting with operations, and bringing en- ergy to every game. Known for his reliability and team-first mindset, Powell's commitment is driven by a genuine desire to support students, strengthen school pride, and build community.

Partner in Education/Corporation or Govern- ment Agency: Jesse Armendarez, Second Dis- trict Supervisor

As Second District Supervisor, Jesse Arm- endarez is dedicated to strengthening commu- nities and expanding opportunities for students across the region. A champion for disadvan- taged youth, he ignited the creation of the SPARK program, which provides over 100 youth, including foster youth, with internships, mentorships, job training, and career certifica- tions. Now supported countywide, SPARK has become a key part of the County's youth development and workforce readiness efforts.

Excellence in Education/Education Profes- sional: Anne-Marie Cabrales

A longtime educator with over 30 years of ser- vice to Fontana Unified School District, Ca- brales has been named founding principal of Oak Grove Preparatory Academy, an innova- tive seventh- through 12th-grade campus open- ing for the 2026-27 school year. Known for pushing boundaries and continuously seeking ways to improve instruction and student out- comes, Cabrales brings creativity, clarity and a student-centered approach to her leadership. She builds strong, authentic relationships with students and staff, fostering a shared sense of purpose and belonging that drives success.

Excellence in Education/Student Alumni:

Monica Stockhausen

Monica Stockhausen is giving back to the com- munity that raised her by investing in students and encouraging them to believe in themselves. Since joining Chaffey College as an adjunct professor in 2015, she has mentored over 3,000 students, teaching entrepreneurial thinking to support engagement, persistence and reten- tion. Stockhausen focuses on supporting un- derserved and first-generation college students, building meaningful relationships and serving as a trusted mentor beyond the classroom.

Distinguished Service Award: Chyrl Russell A credentialed educator for more than 50 years, Chyrl Russell has brought melody, rhythm and joy to hundreds of students. Committed to music education, she shares resources, offers les- sons, fundraises for instruments and even or- chestrated nearly $500,000 in donations for schools throughout Rim of the World Unified School District. Seeing a greater need for mu- sic education in the district, Russell stepped in, teaching multiple classes daily and recruiting fellow educators to expand programs. Through her work with the Arrowhead Arts Association, she has introduced orchestra, string programs, youth symphonies and live performances, cre- ating a legacy that continues to resonate across the district.

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