Press Releases

BANNING, CA — Banning Unified School District joined millions across the state today in the annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill. All school sites and administrative offices took part in this important event, designed to promote earthquake preparedness and ensure the safety of students, staff, and the entire school community.

During the drill, participants practiced the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" technique to protect themselves in the event of an earthquake. The district’s ongoing commitment to safety and emergency preparedness was further reinforced through this valuable exercise.

Banning Unified School District remains dedicated to providing a safe learning environment for all and will continue to prioritize safety through regular training and drills.

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BANNING, CA — On Friday, October 18, 2024, Hemmerling Elementary hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the debut of its new book vending machine, marking an innovative step in promoting literacy across the school. The event brought together students, teachers and community members, all excited to witness the launch of this creative resource.  

The book vending machine offers students a unique opportunity to engage with reading. Students earn tokens through positive behavior, academic achievements and participation in reading programs, which they can redeem for books from the vending machine. By making books more accessible and rewarding, Hemmerling Elementary aims to instill a love for reading and create a positive association with literacy.

“This new vending machine is more than just a tool, it’s an invitation for our students to explore new worlds through reading,” said Superintendent Davis. “We’re excited to see how this initiative will inspire and empower students at Hemmerling Elementary.”  

The project was made possible through the Banning Teachers Association (BTA), as the school won the vending machine through a drawing. The achievement reflects the dedication of Hemmerling Elementary’s staff, who have long pursued this goal to support their students.  

“We believe that every child deserves access to books and the opportunity to fall in love with reading. This new initiative not only provides students with the resources they need but also promotes a culture of learning and growth that extends beyond the classroom,” said Principal Dr. Ileana Gutierrez.  

The ceremony also highlighted how Hemmerling Elementary’s focus on literacy aligns with regional and state efforts. The Riverside County Office of Education’s Literacy by 5th Grade Initiative promotes literacy as the foundation for lifelong learning, academic achievement and civic engagement, ensuring students are prepared for the challenges of college and the workforce.  

Additionally, the event supports the California Department of Education's “Reading by Third Grade and Beyond” initiative, led by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond. This initiative emphasizes literacy and biliteracy through evidence-based practices and resources designed to ensure students across California are proficient readers by third grade and beyond.  

The event concluded with attendees exploring the book vending machine and learning how it will be integrated into student programs throughout the school year.

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BANNING, CA — On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, Banning Unified School District, in partnership with the Stagecoach Days Association, proudly hosted its Harvest Festival at Nicolet Middle School. The free event, open to the entire community, was a celebration of collaboration and community engagement, drawing families from across the district.

Each school site within Banning USD participated by hosting booths that provided opportunities for community members to purchase food, merchandise, or school site swag. Staffed by students, dedicated school staff, and community members, these booths emphasized the district’s commitment to unity and community involvement.

Superintendent Terrence Davis expressed his appreciation for the strong turnout and partnership, stating, “Our annual Harvest Festival is a testament to the incredible community spirit here in Banning. The collaboration between Banning USD and the Stagecoach Days Association showcases our shared commitment to creating meaningful experiences for our students and their families. We are grateful for the support and engagement of everyone who made this event a success.”

The Harvest Festival exemplified the district’s mission to foster connections within the community while providing a fun and enriching environment for all attendees.

Participating schools included:

• Banning High School

• Banning Independent Study School

• Cabazon Elementary School

• Central Elementary School

• Florida Street Discovery Center

• Hemmerling Elementary School

• Hoffer Elementary School

• New Horizons High School

• Nicolet Middle School

• Banning Adult Education

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BANNING, CA —  Banning Unified School District (Banning USD) is excited to announce the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the $10 million Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Expansion Project at the Florida Street Discovery Center. This event celebrates the opening of new facilities, including a play structure, multiple classrooms, and an entire building designed to inspire and support the district’s youngest learners.

The expansion introduces a new grade level to the TK program, welcoming children as young as 3 years and 11 months. With this full-day program, students are immersed in a supportive, engaging environment that builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

“This new space is more than just a building; it’s an opportunity to inspire our youngest learners each day,” said Superintendent Terrence Davis. “Creating a welcoming environment where students are excited to come to school is central to our mission, and we’re thrilled to see this project come to life.”

This project was a collaborative effort, with TBP Architects, Erickson Hall Construction Company, and Silver Creek Modular, LLC, playing key roles in bringing the vision to life. Additionally, Banning USD’s facilities and fiscal departments, along with support from the Riverside County Office of Education and dedicated site staff, contributed to the success of this project, which was funded by the Universal Transitional Kindergarten Facilities Grant and district contributions.

“This expansion isn’t just about classrooms and facilities; it’s about opening doors to a brighter future for our students,” said Principal Colette Burgess. “We are fostering a love for learning from the very start, and I’m grateful to everyone who made this vision possible for our children and community.”

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BANNING, CA — Banning Unified School District (Banning USD) is proud to highlight its dedication to preparing students for successful futures through its Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways. Serving nearly 4,300 students, Banning USD offers five dynamic CTE sectors, each designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills and real-world experience.

The district is excited to partner with Tomorrow’s Talent, an innovative organization dedicated to bridging the gap between education and employment. This collaboration is not about introducing new programs but rather about elevating and expanding the reach of the exceptional CTE programs already in place at Banning USD. Through this partnership, the district aims to connect students with industry partners, opening doors to new opportunities while celebrating the outstanding achievements of its current CTE students.

“We are incredibly proud of the programs we’ve built and the students who thrive within them,” said Superintendent Terrence Davis. “Tomorrow’s Talent allows us to expand the visibility of these programs, ensuring that our students are connected to valuable career pathways while staying true to our vision to prepare, inspire, and educate.”

Banning USD currently offers students the chance to explore their interests through a variety of CTE pathways:

Business and Finance
Academy of Business – Preparing students for careers in finance, management, and entrepreneurship.

Building and Construction Trades
Building Construction – Providing real-world skills in construction and design.

Transportation
Automotive – Developing expertise in vehicle maintenance, repair, and technology.

Arts, Media, and Entertainment
Digital Film – Teaching storytelling through film production and editing.
Theater Performance – Developing performance skills for stage and screen.
Theater Tech – Providing training in lighting, sound, and stagecraft.

Public Service
Cadet Corps – Inspiring leadership and service through military-style training programs.

With Tomorrow’s Talent helping to connect these pathways to industry partners, Banning USD is reinforcing its commitment to empowering students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the workforce or higher education.

About Tomorrow’s Talent:
Plan Today for Tomorrow’s Talent
Founded by Dale Marsden in 2019, Tomorrow’s Talent is an innovative initiative created to bridge the gap between education and employment. Tomorrow’s Talent proposes a proactive approach by integrating real-world experiences into the education system through internships, apprenticeships, and service-learning projects. This program not only aims to expose students to various career opportunities from an early age but also seeks to align their passions with potential career paths. The ultimate goal is to ensure students emerge from their educational journey ready to contribute to their local economies, equipped with meaningful experiences and connections that benefit both local talent and employers.

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Jenny Gonzalez, a senior at New Horizon High School, has taken the lead in organizing the Coombs H.E.L.P. Food Drive, collecting six boxes of non-perishable food items, including canned corn, green beans, mashed potatoes, rice, baking goods, and juice. Her efforts are providing crucial support to families in need while inspiring her peers to give back to the community.  

Jenny’s motivation for leading this initiative comes from personal experience. "I understand what it feels like to be a family in need. This is my chance to give back," she shared. Her goal was to help at least five families, but her determination and the generosity of students and staff led to exceeding that goal. The food will be donated to H.E.L.P. (Hope Empathy Love and Prayer), a foundation that has been operating for over 40 years, bringing hope to communities like Banning. Jenny emphasized, "It’s not about me, it’s about making a difference for families who need it most."  

Superintendent Terrence Davis expressed his admiration for Jenny’s leadership, saying, "Jenny demonstrates the power of student leadership and the impact one individual can have on an entire school and community. She is a shining example of the dedication and compassion we hope to inspire in all our students." 

Jenny took on this project as part of her English 12 Community Service assignment, guided by Mr. Waedekin. Her efforts not only fulfilled her community service hours but also encouraged her peers to participate and earn hours needed for graduation. Principal Dr. Melissa Lee shared her pride, stating, “Jenny’s initiative and selflessness reflect the values of our school and community.” Jenny, who will graduate this December, plans to enlist in the military and pursue a career as a pediatric nurse. She credits her mother’s love and support as her greatest motivation. "This will set me up for success, and I hope to make my family proud," she said. With her heart for service and leadership, Jenny hopes the food drive will continue as a New Horizon tradition, inspiring future students to carry it forward. 

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BANNING, CA — The Banning High School Boys Cross Country Team made history once again this past Saturday, advancing to the CIF Finals for the second consecutive year after an outstanding performance at the CIF Prelims. This marks the first time in school history that the team has achieved back-to-back appearances in the Finals.

Superintendent Terrence Davis commended the team’s achievement, stating, “This historic milestone is a testament to the perseverance and excellence of our student-athletes. They continue to inspire our community with their dedication and success.”

The team, led by an exceptional effort from Thomas Carr, who placed 3rd overall in his heat, and Alan Canela, who finished 9th overall, demonstrated their strength and determination. Additional standout performances from Alvaro Villavlazo, Parth Amarkotia, Jahzeel Anzola, Javonte BoHannon, and Nathan Cardiel contributed to the team’s historic achievement.

“We couldn’t be prouder of our cross-country team for qualifying for the CIF finals!” said Brandon Mason, Banning High School Athletic Director. “This incredible achievement reflects the dedication of our student-athletes, who train tirelessly year-round, and the exceptional guidance of our coaching staff, whose expertise and leadership have been instrumental in their success. This is a testament to the hard work, determination, and strength of our program. Let’s carry this energy into the finals!”

Coach Victoria De La Rosa also expressed her pride in the team, saying, “The boys have done an exceptional job this year. Every athlete has bought into the program and has helped build the culture that has made this season a success. I couldn’t be prouder of all the hard work and dedication they have put in. These boys plan on giving everything they have at finals! I can’t wait to see how they race on Saturday.”

The 2024 CIF Southern Section Ford Boys Cross Country Finals will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Mt. San Antonio College, located at 1110 N Grand Avenue, Walnut, CA 91789. The Broncos will compete in Race 6 at 9:25 AM. Tickets can be purchased online at https://gofan.co/event/2143539?schoolId=CIFSS.

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The Banning High School Boys Varsity Soccer Team showcased their excellence at the Loma Linda Academy Pettis Cup Soccer Tournament, held December 2–5. The Broncos went undefeated, winning all four games and claiming the championship title.

Superintendent Terrance Davis commended the team’s achievement, stating, “Our Broncos exemplify the spirit of determination and teamwork that defines Banning Unified School District. Their success at the LLA Pettis Cup is a testament to their hard work and the outstanding leadership of Coach Aja. I look forward to seeing them continue to make our District proud.”

Led by senior captain Adrian “AJ” Casillas, who recorded an impressive 11 goals and five assists, the Broncos excelled on offense. Junior Chris Ibarra also contributed significantly with eight goals throughout the tournament. On defense, senior captains Jose Medina and Diego Ceballos anchored a backline that proved impenetrable, with goalkeepers Brian Calderon and Andres Luna allowing only two goals across all matches. Midfielder Marquis Stewart-Vaughn was a key playmaker with remarkable throw-ins that resulted in both goals and assists.

The team delivered impressive performances:

• Dec. 2: 17-0 vs. Cornerstone Christian

• Dec. 3: 2-0 vs. Rim of the World

• Dec. 4: 13-0 vs. Redlands Adventist Academy

• Dec. 5: 6-2 vs. Arrowhead Christian Academy (Championship Game)

Head Coach Roman Aja reflected on the team’s success, stating, “Last season, we came up just short of making the CIF playoffs. At the end of the season, the team came together and set goals for the 2024-2025 season. Our first goal was to win the LLA Pettis Cup Soccer Tournament. Now that we’ve accomplished that, we can focus on winning a league title and making a strong run in the CIF playoffs.”

The Broncos are currently undefeated with a 7-0 record and ranked #1 in Division 7.

Congratulations to the Broncos on their remarkable achievement!

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Nicolet Middle School’s Band & Orchestra brought the holiday spirit to life during their holiday concert, held on December 12, 2024, at the Banning High School Performing Arts Center. Students from grades 6 through 8 showcased their musical talents in a variety of captivating performances, drawing a packed house filled with parents, classmates, community members, and staff.

The concert featured an impressive program led by conductors Mr. Damian and Mr. Keymolent. Performances included the Beginning Orchestra, Beginning Band, Mariachi, Soloists, Advanced Orchestra, and Advanced Band. Audiences were treated to a mix of classic holiday favorites and timeless masterpieces, such as Beethoven’s Ninth, Arboles De La Barranca, Joy to the World, and White Christmas. From horns and violins to drums and a variety of other instruments, students delivered an unforgettable evening of music and creativity.

“Providing platforms like this holiday concert allows our students to express their creativity and develop skills that will last a lifetime,” said Superintendent Terrence Davis. “Music has a unique way of bringing people together, and I am proud of the incredible talent and dedication our students and music educators have shown.”

The Performing Arts Center reached full capacity, underscoring the strong community support for the arts and the District’s commitment to providing students with opportunities to shine both on and off the stage. The holiday concert was a heartwarming celebration of music, creativity, and community spirit, setting the tone for a joyful holiday season in Banning.

View Photos: To relive the magic of the evening, visit Nicolet Middle School Band & Orchestra Holiday Concert Photos.

View the Program: Access the evening’s full program atHoliday Concert Program.

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The Banning Unified School District is pleased to announce the election of Shelly Ruiz as the new President and Mayra Anguiano as the new Clerk of the Board of Trustees. This leadership transition, finalized during the Board’s annual organizational meeting on December 19, 2024, reflects the Board’s ongoing commitment to guiding the District toward excellence in education and community engagement.

Shelly Ruiz, who previously served as Clerk, succeeds Laura Troutman as President. With her extensive experience and dedication, Ruiz will lead the Board in advancing the District’s mission to collaborate as a diverse community to develop responsible, respectful, and prepared students.

Mayra Anguiano steps into the Clerk role, succeeding Ruiz. Anguiano has been a valued Trustee, bringing a strong commitment to fostering student success and strengthening relationships with families and the broader community.

The Board of Trustees also includes Trustees Laura Troutman, Lucia “Lucy” Martinez-Lara, and Leslie Novalis, along with Student Board Member Brian Calderon. Together, they work to ensure that Banning USD’s policies and initiatives align with the District’s vision to prepare, inspire, and educate nearly 4,300 students.

Superintendent Terrance Davis acknowledged the Board’s new leadership, stating, “Shelly Ruiz and Mayra Anguiano are exceptional leaders who are deeply committed to the success of our students and our community. Their leadership, combined with the dedication of the entire Board, will continue to move our District forward as we build innovative opportunities for all.”

The District is eager to move forward under this new leadership, focusing on equity, academic excellence, and collaboration with families and community partners.

For more information about the Banning Unified School District Board of Trustees, visit https://www.banning.k12.ca.us/page/meet-the-board.

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On January 14, 2025, the Banning Unified School District hosted its annual Science Fair & History Day Recognition Ceremony at the Banning High School Performing Arts Center. The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of students who excelled at the district level in both the Science Fair and History Day competitions. Students were awarded medals and certificates in recognition of their hard work and dedication.

The ceremony highlighted outstanding projects from both competitions, showcasing creativity, innovation, and a commitment to academic excellence. These exceptional students now have the opportunity to advance to the county level, where their projects will compete against other top students in Riverside County through the Riverside County Office of Education.

History Day Overview and Winners

National History Day (NHD) is a year-long educational program for students in grades 4 through 12. For 2025, the theme is "Rights & Responsibilities in History." Students selected historical topics, conducted in-depth research, and created projects that analyzed their significance. Winners advance through a series of competitions, from local to national levels.

Individual Projects

• 1st Place: Rosa Parks – Central Elementary School (Angeli Gonzalez)

• 2nd Place: Rosa Parks – Central Elementary School (Peyton Moore)

• 3rd Place: Mexican War of Independence 1810 – Hemmerling Elementary School (Gabriel Rodriguez)

Group Projects

• 1st Place: Harriet Tubman – Hemmerling Elementary School (Alaiah Barbosa, Lauren Sphabmixay, Juliet Cruz Flores)

• 2nd Place: Ruby Bridges Changes Education – Hoffer Elementary School (Genesis Stewart, Eliana Garcia, Kiona Cameron, Isaziah Allen, Ethan Frausto)

• 3rd Place: Restoring Native Traditions – Hemmerling Elementary School (Ella Brock, Melanie Avila)

Science and Engineering Fair Overview and Winners

The Science and Engineering Fair provides students the opportunity to showcase their creativity and scientific knowledge. Projects are evaluated on scientific method, clarity, originality, and presentation. Winners advance from district to county, state, and even international competitions, such as the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

Elementary Division

• 1st Place: Fountain of Truth – Hemmerling Elementary School (Zaden Zamudio & Melanie Avila)

• 2nd Place: Pop! – Central Elementary School (Nayana Williams)

• 3rd Place: Stain, Stain Go Away – Central Elementary School (Melanie Gutierrez)

Middle School Division

• 1st Place: Which Method of Apple Slice Preservation is Most Successful Without Compromising Taste – Nicolet Middle School (Elizabeth Scott-Magedman)

• 2nd Place: Plant Growth – Nicolet Middle School (Anabelle Ortiz & Darla Orosco)

• 3rd Place: What Object Has More Bacteria: A Phone Screen, a Toilet Seat, or a Door Knob – Nicolet Middle School (Anthony Thomas)

Superintendent Terrance Davis expressed his pride in the students, stating, “These students exemplify the spirit of academic excellence in Banning USD. Their hard work, creativity, and passion for learning are truly inspiring, and we are excited to see them represent our District at the county level.”

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Banning High School recently welcomed industry leaders, employers, and educators to its Career Technical Education (CTE) Industry Advisory Meeting, an event dedicated to strengthening the bridge between education and the workforce. Held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, the gathering provided an opportunity for professionals to engage with students, explore innovative learning environments, and contribute insights to align CTE programs with current industry standards.

The event, made possible through a partnership with Tomorrow’s Talent, featured representatives from businesses across Banning and Riverside County, who were greeted by students eager to showcase their skills and hands-on learning experiences. Attendees had the opportunity to tour Banning High School’s state-of-the-art CTE facilities, where they observed students utilizing advanced technology and equipment in various career pathways. From automotive engine components and theater production sound boards to a cutting-edge digital media production studio and a warehouse-sized construction classroom, visitors were impressed by the real-world applications of student learning.

“Seeing the level of hands-on experience and industry-relevant tools available to students was truly inspiring,” said one industry partner. “The skills these students are developing will set them up for success in their future careers.”

Superintendent Terrance Davis highlighted the importance of collaboration between education and industry, stating, “At Banning Unified School District, we are committed to ensuring our students receive the best possible preparation for their future careers. Partnerships like the one with Tomorrow’s Talent allow us to provide students with hands-on experiences and industry connections that will make them competitive in the workforce.”

Banning Unified School District’s CTE programs provide students with dynamic opportunities to explore career pathways, gain industry certifications, and earn high school credits. The district offers CTE pathways, including:

• Arts, Media, and Entertainment: Digital Film, Theatre Performance, Theatre Tech (certifications in Adobe Premiere Pro, Voice Acting, Writing for Performance).

• Business and Finance: Academy of Business (certifications in Social Media Marketing and Microsoft 365).

• Building and Construction Trades: College-level courses like Introduction to Construction Technology.

• Transportation: Hands-on automotive training with certifications in SP2 Automotive and OSHA-10.

• Public Services: Leadership development through Cadet Corps programs with specialized certifications.

The collaboration between education and industry continues to strengthen Banning Unified’s commitment to preparing students for the workforce, equipping them with both technical expertise and career-ready experiences.

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With confidence and determination, fifth-grader Ella Brock from Hemmerling Elementary School was crowned the Banning Unified School District Spelling Bee Champion after successfully spelling the word “feisty” in the final round. The competition, held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at the Banning High School Performing Arts Center, featured eight talented students from the District’s four elementary schools: Cabazon Elementary, Central Elementary, Hemmerling Elementary, and Hoffer Elementary.

“Our District is committed to providing enriching opportunities for students to excel academically and develop lifelong skills,” said Superintendent Terrance Davis. “The Spelling Bee showcases the hard work, perseverance, and confidence of our students, and we are proud to celebrate their success.”

Ella’s passion for spelling is fueled by her love for writing, her favorite subject in school. She dreams of becoming a principal one day and hopes to help create a bully-free school environment.

“We are incredibly proud of Ella and all the students who competed in this year’s Spelling Bee,” said Dr. Illeana Gutierez, Principal at Hemmerling Elementary School. “Ella’s dedication to learning and leadership is truly inspiring, and we cannot wait to see what she accomplishes in the future.”

The Spelling Bee was made possible with the support of District staff and officials, including:

• Marie Pilgrim, Pronouncer

• Heather Warner, Head Judge

• Regina Pallis, Challenge Recorder

• Cassandra Rollins, Record Keeper

This year’s competition was especially meaningful as the Scripps National Spelling Bee celebrates its 100th anniversary, marking a century of academic excellence and student achievement.

As the Banning USD Spelling Bee Champion, Ella will now advance to the Riverside County Spelling Bee, hosted by the Riverside County Office of Education, where she will compete against top spellers from across the county.

View Photos from the Event

Photos from the 2025 Banning USD Spelling Bee can be found at:
https://banning-usd.smugmug.com/2024-2025/February-Events/Spelling-Bee-Competition

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Banning Unified School District proudly celebrates Hemmerling Elementary School fifth graders Melanie Avila and Ella Brock for their outstanding achievement at the Riverside County National History Day competition. Their project, "Restoring Native Tradition," won in the Elementary Group Poster category, earning them a place in the National History Day-California State Competition, held May 1-4, 2025, at California State University, Sacramento.

Their project explores how dam construction impacted Native American communities, leading to environmental and health consequences. The students highlighted how dams have historically restricted access to natural resources, affecting indigenous traditions and well-being and how recent efforts to remove some of these dams are restoring natural ecosystems and cultural heritage.

The visually striking poster features a border with colors reflecting Native heritage, a background depicting the Klamath River, and mountains and greenery to illustrate the natural landscape. The students incorporated before-and-after images of dam construction, showcasing the changes to the environment and the effect on food sources. Additionally, the project includes a map of the Klamath River and information about salmon, a vital resource for Native communities that was significantly impacted by the dams.

“This project was important to us because we had never heard about this issue before,” said Avila. “We wanted to make a difference and help others understand how Native American communities were affected.”

The duo chose to work together because of their close friendship and shared passion for history. Avila, who has competed at the county and state levels before, is focusing on improving her communication skills with judges as she prepares for the next round. For Brock, this marks her first time advancing to the state level, and while she is a little nervous, she is excited to practice interview skills with her mother to prepare.

“History is interesting because we get to learn about the past and see how we can make the world a better place,” said Avila.

Brock added, “It’s fascinating to see how things from the past affect us today.”

The Riverside County National History Day competition took place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Canyon Springs High School in Moreno Valley, featuring 73 projects from 135 students across 11 school districts and private schools.

“We are incredibly proud of Melanie and Ella for their dedication to historical research and storytelling,” said Superintendent Terrence Davis. “Their project sheds light on an important issue that isn’t widely recognized, and their success reflects their passion for learning and making a difference.”

Banning Unified School District congratulates Melanie and Ella on their achievement and wishes them the best of luck at the National History Day-California State Competition.

For more information about National History Day, visithttps://www.nhd.org.

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Three Banning Unified School District representatives were recognized at the 17th Annual Community Advisory Committee (CAC) Recognition Event, hosted by the Riverside County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) and the CAC, on Thursday, March 20, 2025. The event celebrates individuals who have gone above and beyond to support students with disabilities throughout the school year.

Rachel Wheeler, Jonathan Pilgrim, and Susan Peraza were honored for their exceptional dedication and contributions to the Special Needs Community. While Susan Peraza was unable to attend, both Wheeler and Pilgrim were present to receive their awards in person.

“Our district is incredibly proud of Rachel, Jonathan, and Susan for their unwavering commitment to serving students with disabilities,” said Timothy Worthington, Director of Special Education at Banning USD. “Their recognition is a reflection of the heart and compassion they bring to their work every day.”

The event, held annually by Riverside County SELPA and the CAC, is a moment to acknowledge the impactful work of educators, staff, and community members who make a difference in the lives of students receiving special education services.

“At Banning Unified, we are committed to ensuring all students have access to a high-quality, supportive learning environment. We are grateful to have dedicated individuals like Rachel, Johnathan, and Susan leading the way with compassion and excellence,” said Superintendent Terrence Davis.

The District extends its congratulations to all honorees recognized at this year’s event and thanks the Riverside County SELPA and CAC for continuing this important tradition of recognition.

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The Banning High School Performing Arts Center recently came alive with laughter, music, and unforgettable moments as the Broadway Broncos presented their latest theatrical production, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. The student-led musical delighted audiences with its charm, creativity, and nostalgic tribute to Charles M. Schulz’s iconic Peanuts comic strip.

Performed over four showings from March 21–23, the musical brought together students, families, and community members for a truly special event. The Performing Arts Center was filled with joy as students showcased months of hard work, with sets that looked like they leapt off the comic pages and a live band that played throughout the performance.

The production featured a talented cast of students portraying beloved characters including Daniel Escamilla as Charlie Brown, Aaliyah Hearsley as Lucy, Sariah Goldsmith as Franklin, Star Hansen as Sally, Nevaeh Huizar as Linus, Valery Centeno as the Little Red-Haired Girl, Jazzmyn Flanagan as Snoopy, Jake Vega as Schroeder, and Hunter Banda as Woodstock.

“Our students have been preparing since early this year,” said Show Director Joshua Prisk. “They’ve worked tirelessly building sets, learning music, refining choreography, and supporting every part of the production—from ushering to stage crew. Their growth and commitment are truly inspiring.”

The choice to produce You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown was intentional. “It’s a timeless, feel-good story that reminds us of the value of friendship and community—messages we all need right now,” said Technical Director and Choreographer Ms. Tamara Griffey. “It’s also inclusive and uplifting, which made it perfect for our students and families.”

Preparation began in February 2024, following casting in December 2023. From set construction to vocal training and live orchestra rehearsals under Band Director Mr. Hepburn, the production was a collective effort. The creative team even included a foyer gallery of student-created artwork inspired by the show.

This production also marked several firsts for the theater program, including choreographed blanket dancing and a kite flying scene—something that turned into a bonding moment for the cast. “Many of the students had never flown a kite before, so we held a practice day in the school parking lot,” shared Mr. Prisk. “It was such a memorable experience and brought us all closer together.”

The musical also held a bittersweet note as it marked the final performance for several senior cast members. “Watching them take the stage one last time was emotional,” said Director Prisk. “But it’s also encouraging to see how many younger students are already stepping up and keeping our program strong.”

The show was supported by an exceptional production team including:

• Joshua Prisk, Show Director

• Tamara Griffey, Technical Director & Choreographer

• Kandra Scullin, Pianist

• Mr. Hepburn, Band Director (featuring the Banning High School Orchestra)

Looking ahead, the Banning High School Theater Program is preparing for its next show, Thirteen Ways to Ruin Your College Interview, a unique puppet show scheduled for April 16, 2025. The full 2025–26 theater season will be announced this May.

Community support is essential to the continued success of the arts at Banning High School. Attending performances and encouraging student participation—whether onstage, backstage, or in the audience—helps keep this creative spirit thriving.

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Under the bright lights of Angel Stadium in Anaheim, the Banning High School Broncos baseball team secured a thrilling 1-0 victory against the Arroyo Valley High School Hawks of San Bernardino City Unified School District on March 26, 2025.

The unforgettable event marked a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for student-athletes to play on a Major League Baseball (MLB) field—home of the Los Angeles Angels. The game was officiated by professional MLB referees, and both teams fundraised through ticket sales to make the experience possible.

Led by Head Coach Jake Knesel, the Banning Broncos coaching staff included Alex Ward (Pitching Coach), John Lara II (1st Base Coach), Joe Conner (JV Coach), and Keawepoho Fragas (JV Coach). Their combined leadership and dedication played a key role in preparing the team for this high-profile game.

The success of this event was also made possible through the strong support of school leadership, including Principal Art Paz, who was in attendance and proud to see his students shine on a professional field. His presence and encouragement served as a reminder of the school’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for its students—both inside and outside the classroom.

“This was a great experience for the boys. They will remember this for the rest of their lives,” said Coach Knesel. “To be given an opportunity to play in a professional stadium is something that many will never get to experience. We would all like to thank Brandon Mason and everyone else involved who helped make this happen.”

The stands were packed with families, staff, and community members. Every hit ignited excitement in the crowd, with fans on the edge of their seats, cheering with pride for the Broncos.

The game remained scoreless until the seventh inning, when #5 Trevor Eisman made the game-winning play that brought the Broncos to victory. With a final score of 1-0, the energy on the field and in the stands was electric.

From sitting in the dugout to working alongside stadium staff, the players were treated like professional athletes throughout the day. Walking and running across the MLB field with pride and joy, the Broncos embraced every moment.

“This was more than just a game—it was an experience,” said Brandon Mason, Athletic Director at Banning High School. “Our coaches, players, and community came together to make something special happen.”

This event not only highlighted the talent of Banning’s student-athletes but also showcased the power of school leadership, community support, and teamwork.

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A third-grade classroom at Central Elementary School turned into a scene of joyful tears and heartfelt emotion today as U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer Michael LuGrain surprised his only son, Thomas LuGrain, after nearly a year of being deployed overseas.

The reunion, which took place just before the school’s lunch break, was a complete surprise to Thomas, his classmates, and even much of the school staff. Michael, who serves as a water and fuel systems maintenance specialist, has been deployed four times. Although he and Thomas have done their best to stay in touch one to two times a week during his absence, the time apart was deeply felt.

“Thomas is my world,” Michael shared. “We talk as much as we can, but it’s not the same as being there. I missed him more than words can say.”

Michael entered the classroom quietly and stood next to Thomas’s desk. It took a moment before Thomas realized who was beside him—then, in an instant, he leapt into his father's arms, speechless and overwhelmed with emotion. The two shared a powerful embrace, and Thomas quickly began showing his dad what he had been working on in class.

The surprise didn’t stop there. Thomas’s mother and grandmother were also part of the moment, stepping into the classroom shortly after Michael, adding to the wave of joy. Students were equally moved—some cried, and many told Thomas how happy they were that his dad was finally home.

“This is what community and connection are all about,” said Principal Marcia Cole-Fijabi. “To witness such a powerful and personal moment reminded all of us of the strength and sacrifice our military families endure. We’re honored that this reunion happened in our school.”

The reunion took place in Mrs. Ruano’s third-grade class, whose students were deeply impacted by the experience. “Our classroom was instantly filled with love and emotion,” shared Mrs. Ruano. “The students were in complete awe. Many cried tears of joy. It reminded us how powerful it is to see love in action.”

Michael shared that Thomas’s favorite thing to do with him is play video games, and the two already have a match planned for tonight.

Several major media outlets—including ABC7, KTLA, NBC, and regional print publications—were on campus to capture this unforgettable moment. 

This special day highlighted the deep bonds between family, the resilience of military life, and the powerful support within the Banning Unified School District community.

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