At the May 14, 2026 School Board meeting, PUSD recognized outstanding students and staff from across the district, celebrating achievements in academics, career technical education, community service, and communications.
WEST PUTNAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Lisa Quintana
LIBRARIAN & ASB CLERK
Lisa Quintana is known for her organization, professionalism, and the positive environment she helps create for students, staff, and families. Her dedication and innovative approach make her a valued member of the West Putnam team.
Mike Fusco
PE TEACHER
Mike Fusco has built strong relationships with students and colleagues throughout his career, keeping students engaged and motivated through his enthusiasm and commitment. As he retires, the West Putnam community celebrates the lasting impact he leaves behind.
STEP UP YOUTH CHALLENGE
Audrey Toran, Melina Ambriz, Alfredo Medrano, Sofia Silva, and Jonathan Sanchez
SANTA FE ELEMENTARY — BEST PRESENTATION AWARD
Fifth graders from Santa Fe Elementary earned the countywide Best Presentation Award and $700 in grant funding for their Kindness Week project, which included school activities and a visit to a local nursing home.
Roxana Mendoza, Julisa Robles, Daniela Romero, and Audrina Jimenez
PORTERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL — MEETING THE NEED AWARD
Porterville High School students earned the Meeting the Need Award and $1,000 in grant funding for their Healthy Hearts hygiene drive supporting families in crisis.
Lizbeth Castro, Erica Cisneros, Elizabeth Zavala, Jessica Cervantes, and Marco Lopez
STRATHMORE HIGH SCHOOL — PHIL COX BEST OVERALL AWARD
Strathmore High School took home the Phil Cox Best Overall Award, the top countywide high school recognition, and $2,500 in grant funding for their project focused on reducing the stigma of mental health through a community wellness night.
CALIFORNIA CONTINUATION EDUCATION ASSOCIATION AWARDS
Maria Fernandez
COUNSELOR — CITRUS HIGH SCHOOL
Maria Fernandez received the CCEA Region 3 Counselor of the Year Award, selected from over 50 applicants across the central valley and central coast region. She was recognized for her how-can-I-help attitude and her work building Citrus High School's college and career program.
Lillian Durbin
CCEA LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Lillian Durbin received the CCEA Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest individual recognition given by the organization. The award honored over 40 years of service spanning roles from classified staff to teacher, principal, and school board member.
STRATEGY AND COMMUNICATIONS — 4 AWARDS AT CALSPRA
Hannah Moore and Diego Corona
STRATEGY AND COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
Hannah Moore and Diego Corona earned four awards at the California School Public Relations Association conference this year. The team received one Award of Merit for crisis communications and three Awards of Excellence for PUSD's new logo and branding, the weekly newsletter, and the annual board report.
Porterville Unified School District · Board Meeting, May 14, 2026