An Annual Tradition of Individual Recognition
JENNY LEE
Staff Writer
Each year, the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) recognizes those who have played a significant role in students’ education by awarding them the Founders Day Award.
The founders of the PTA were Alice Birney, Phoebe Hearst and Selena Butler; the award was created in order to share their legacy as founders.
The recipients have to be a PTA member and are selected based on how they enrich the school community and their PTA achievements.
The AUSD is comprised of 13 elementary schools and three high schools, each with the opportunity to create its own PTA program. On Feb. 8, all of AUSD’s PTAs came together to honor the recipient from their respective school. From AHS, the PTA chose to honor Jose Sanchez, Jocelyn Castro, Jessica Castillo and Hung Luu.
Sanchez is a history teacher, MOOR College Preparatory teacher and adviser of the MOOR College Club. He creates a college-going atmosphere by sponsoring college week and workshops. This past summer, he was one of the two teachers chosen from California to study at the Supreme Court. He has always supported the PTA by visiting their booths and fundraisers.
“This is [my] first year here, but I knew he would be a really good teacher,” freshman Aaron Chhor of Sanchez’s AP Human Geography class said. “I never thought I’d be interested in geography but he makes it very interesting. He really deserves this award.”
Castro is a biology teacher, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) coordinator and Associated Student Body adviser. Castro has been working to transform the school’s culture. Under her coordination, WASC gave AHS a six-year accreditation with a three-year review.
“It was definitely a surprise to receive the award,” Castro said. “I was not expecting it, but it was an honor.”
Castillo is the chair of AHS’ special education department and is dedicated to serving the community. In California, a school’s Academic Performance Index (API) score is used to measure a school’s academic performance and development. With Castillo’s help, AHS’ API score has increased by 60 points.
“It’s my privilege to serve the community, and I take it very seriously,” Castillo said. “I believe that everyone took responsibility to make the [API score increase] happen.”
Luu is a parent receiving the honorary service award for his outstanding leadership in PTA. He stepped up to the plate when the PTA had been struggling.
According to PTA President Adele Andrade-Stadler, he earns the respect of those who have worked closely with him.
“It’s a wonderful event to recognize that there are special people in the community of Alhambra High School,” Andrade-Stadler said. “It sets aside all our busy schedules to say thank you to people who work very hard.”