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Hacienda La Puente Unified Celebrates 10th Annual State of the District, Highlights District Growth
  • February 2025
  • State of the District
Nancy Yeang

CITY OF INDUSTRY Hacienda La Puente Unified’s community came together for the 10th annual State of the District event on Feb. 6, which highlighted the District’s commitment to engaging students to become lifelong learners while celebrating key milestones achieved in the past year.

The theme of the night was “Transformative Learning, Pathways for Student Success,” with Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez sharing how the District continues to evolve and invest in rigorous academic curricula and technological advancements to prepare students for future opportunities in rewarding, in-demand careers.

“Our State of the District event is a celebration of all our community members, from our students and parents to our teachers and staff, and how together we help to foster academic excellence and state-of-the-art innovation,” Jiménez said. “It is because of our community support and partnerships that Hacienda La Puente Unified is able to provide the most enriching, accessible, and equitable educational environment for all of our students to succeed.”

The evening was highlighted with live student performances by the William Workman High School jazz band, Glen A. Wilson High School choir, and for the first time performing together, mariachi ensembles from Orange Grove and Sparks middle schools. La Puente High School Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps led a presentation of colors as Los Altos High School senior Ambar Muro led the Pledge of Allegiance.

During the event, a photo slideshow paid tribute to HLPUSD’s past, present, and future, seamlessly mixing historical photos from the District’s founding in 1970 with contemporary community images to showcase how HLPUSD has evolved over 55 years.

State Assemblymember Blanca Rubio Field Representative Abel Casanova presented a proclamation recognizing HLPUSD for its achievements and joined the festivities, along with the District’s Board of Education members, executive cabinet members, school administrators, teachers, students, and parents.

“This night is a wonderful example of the immersive experiences we provide to our students to ensure they make a positive impact in our community,” HLPUSD Assistant Superintendent of Education Services Dr. Rosa Isiah said. “Our District has done more than transform the ways that our students learn – we also strive to provide opportunities that inspire our students’ leadership abilities and empower them to take ownership of their future.”

Jiménez detailed the numerous achievements and national and state awards HLPUSD earned in the past year. The U.S. News & World Report named several HLPUSD schools as top schools: all four comprehensive high schools are ranked in the top 32% of schools across the nation according to a 2024 report, and 12 elementary schools and six middle schools are ranked among California’s Best Schools in a 2025 report.

The District continues to expand hands-on learning opportunities for students to gain real-world experiences to help prepare them to navigate their future studies and careers, such as access to 28 career technical education programs in 10 industry sectors including aviation, computer science, and film and video production.

HLPUSD also focused on accessibility and equity for all students, including opening a new inclusive playground at Lassalette Elementary School, which provides an all-abilities area and a variety of recreation options that are wheelchair accessible. Additionally, each student is equipped with 1:1 technology devices and access to 24/7 educational tools, such as free tutoring and a digital library. 

“Our goal has always been to bring out the interests, talents, and abilities of our students so that they can meet the challenges of our ever-changing world and economy, and prepare them for jobs that don’t even exist yet,” Jiménez said. “I am thankful to our leadership team and our educators for embracing the changes needed to prepare our students for their future.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS

HLPUSD_STATE OF THE DISTRICT1: Mariachi ensembles from Orange Grove and Sparks middle schools perform for the first time together during HLPUSD’s 10th annual State of the District event on Feb. 6.

HLPUSD_STATE OF THE DISTRICT2: HLPUSD Assistant Superintendent of Education Services Dr. Rosa Isiah (left) opened the State of the District event and introduced student performers while Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez (right) highlighted nation- and state-wide recognitions awarded to numerous elementary, middle, and high schools during HLPUSD’s 10th annual State of the District event.


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Hacienda La Puente Unified High School Senior Shines as Scholar-Athlete, Advocate for Change
Andrea Torres

CITY OF INDUSTRY – Lauren Medina, a senior at William Workman High School, is a shining example of academic excellence, athletic dedication, and community commitment. Known for her strong work ethic and passion for social change, Medina is excelling both in the classroom and in the pool while actively contributing to the betterment of her school community.


Medina, a standout on the Workman High swim team, also takes advanced placement courses and college-level courses through the school’s Early College Academy. In addition to her athletic and academic pursuits, she is an active member of the Renaissance program, where she supports school-wide events and helps foster a positive school culture. She has honed her communication and writing skills through a local journalism internship, preparing her for a future in both law and community advocacy.


“I’ve grown up in a large family where working hard for what you want and being there for others has always been a priority," Medina said. "This school district has nurtured my desire to persevere and make a meaningful impact. I’m dedicated to finding my way, overcoming challenges, and making real change in my community."


Medina is also a swim instructor, where she teaches young children vital swimming techniques and water safety skills. When Medina isn’t in the pool, she dedicates her time to supporting incoming freshmen and Lobos students by volunteering for various school-wide events and helping them find opportunities to succeed at Workman High.


After graduation, Medina plans to attend Mt. San Antonio College in fall 2025, with the goal of transferring to Cal Poly Pomona to study law, focusing on immigration rights. She aspires to advocate for those who may not have a voice in our legal system, drawing on her own background to inspire change and create opportunities for others.


“Lauren embodies the spirit of leadership and determination we strive to cultivate within our District,” said Dr. Alfonso Jiménez, Superintendent of Hacienda La Puente Unified School District. “Her exceptional academic achievements, commitment to athletics, and unwavering dedication to service demonstrate not only her potential but also her deep-rooted desire to give back to her community. We have no doubt that she will continue to excel and lead with purpose as she pursues her future in law and advocacy.”

Story produced by La Puente High School senior Vanessa Gutierrez

PHOTO CAPTIONS:


HLPUSD_MEDINA1: William Workman High School senior Lauren Medina helps her renaissance program peers prepare for a recognition rally in November 2024.


HLPUSD_MEDINA2: Lauren Medina celebrates exceptional achievements during the 2023-24 water polo season.


HLPUSD_MEDINA3: Lauren celebrates her sister’s graduation from William Workman High School during a commencement ceremony in May 2024.

 

January 2025 Superintendent's Update
Andrea Torres

Dear HLPUSD Community,

Happy New Year! As we step into the second half of the 2024-25 school year, there is a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation for the opportunities and milestones ahead.

This month, we honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, reflecting on his dedication to service, equality, and justice. We also celebrated Lunar New Year across the District and observed the important milestone of the 100th day of school on January 21.

Our high schools hosted Quad Nights for middle school students to explore the opportunities awaiting them at the next level, while numerous campuses also organized Open Houses to engage with current families and showcase our dynamic programs.

We also held a Career Technical Education (CTE) Middle School Symposium in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Office of Education and the Golden State Pathways Program to showcase our diverse CTE pathways. The event featured classroom visits, breakout sessions with CTE educators, and presentations from student ambassadors in biotechnology, aviation, and other pathways. These experiences gave attendees a deeper understanding of the real-world skills and experiences our students are gaining.

January is also School Board Appreciation Month, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to our Board members for their leadership, dedication, and unwavering support of our District. Their commitment plays a key role in ensuring the continued success of our students, teachers, staff, and all HLPUSD.

As we continue to focus on student success, I’d like to share a few important reminders. Enrollment for TK through 12th grade opened on January 21, and we encourage families to explore the exceptional opportunities HLPUSD has to offer. Additionally, our LCAP Survey for students (grades 6-12), staff, and parents is open. If you have not done so already, please take a moment to share your input with us by Friday, January 31. Your feedback is essential in helping us shape the future of our District.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or cheering on our students, your involvement makes HLPUSD a special place. Let’s continue our journey of growth, excellence, and pride.

Sincerely,
Dr. Alfonso Jiménez
Superintendent
Hacienda La Puente Unified School District

HLPUSD_SupUpdate.pdf

Hacienda La Puente Unified Senior Sets New Standard in Multilingualism, Academic Excellence
  • January 2025
Andrea Torres

CITY OF INDUSTRY – Skylar Fan, a senior at Glen A. Wilson High School, is on track to become the first student at her school to graduate with a quad biliteracy award in Mandarin, English, Turkish, and Spanish. As a dedicated student in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Fan exemplifies the program’s focus on global awareness, intellectual development, and critical thinking.

Fan applied for the U.S. Department of State’s National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program and was selected to spend the summer of 2024 in Ankara, Turkey. During her time there, she immersed herself in Turkish culture and significantly improved her language skills. She recently earned the “Superior” rating in her Turkish oral proficiency interview from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

“My love for language grew even deeper during my time in Turkey,” Fan shared. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to connect with people through language and for the guidance of my teachers, peers, and Dr. Kenfield in helping me pursue my academic and career aspirations.”

Fan’s linguistic journey began in 2017 when she moved from Shenzhen, China, to the U.S. as an English learner. She quickly adapted, exiting the English Language Development (ELD) program by seventh grade and has continued to excel ever since.

In addition to her academic achievements, Fan is deeply involved in extracurricular activities, including serving as president of the Linguacats Club, a student organization dedicated to promoting language learning and cross-cultural awareness. Under her leadership, the club works to connect students with valuable resources like study abroad programs and language-learning opportunities.

Fan also serves as editor-in-chief of Paw Prints Weekly, her school’s newspaper, and has been refining her journalism skills through a local internship. As she looks to the future, she plans to pursue a career in linguistics research.

“Fan’s remarkable accomplishments and determination demonstrate what is possible when students are driven to succeed,” said Dr. Alfonso Jiménez, Superintendent of Hacienda La Puente Unified School District (HLPUSD). “She inspires others to pursue their passions, and we couldn’t be more proud of her achievements. We’re excited to see what the future holds for Fan.”

Fan has received early admission to the University of Pennsylvania, where she intends to pursue a double major in Linguistics and Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures. As she prepares for her upcoming IB exams, she is poised to continue her academic journey with the same dedication and passion that have defined her achievements so far.

Story produced by Los Altos High School senior Ambar Muro

Photo Captions:

HLPUSD_FAN1: Skylar Fan visits the Ankara Castle in Turkey after her language classes as part of the NSLI-Y program.

HLPUSD_FAN2: Skylar Fan with her NSLI-Y cohort peers at the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul.

HLPUSD_FAN3: Skylar Fan celebrates with her parents after the IB Theatre collaborative project performance in January 2024.

 

Last Chance to Share Your Input! The 2025 LCAP Survey
Andrea Torres

Last Chance to Share Your Input! The 2025 LCAP Survey is live and only a few days left to make your voice heard! We invite our students, staff, and families to provide valuable feedback to help shape the future of Hacienda La Puente Unified School District (HLPUSD).

The survey will close this Friday, January 31, and we need your input to create a plan that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our school community.

Looking for Feedback From:

  • Students (Grades 6-12): Check your ParentSquare notification for the survey link.
  • Parents and Guardians: Find the survey link on our website or in your ParentSquare notification, emailed on January 13.
  • Staff: Complete the survey individually or during staff meetings and share your valuable insights.

Just simply click the link below to take the survey:

Click here to take the survey now!

Your feedback matters—whether it's about academic programs, school safety, or resources for students and families. Every response counts!

Don’t wait—take the survey today and help us create a stronger future for our schools!