Returning leaders of Lynwood Unified School District’s Board of Education took the Oath of Office during the Board reorganization meeting on Dec. 15.
The ceremony began with a lively holiday performance from Firebaugh High School students and was followed by an overview on this year’s achievements, including the $250 million awarded by the state to rebuild Lynwood High School, increased COVID-19 support for staff and families and new social emotional learning tools for staff and students.
Board President Alfonso Morales, Esq., who has been serving on the Board since 2005, was re-elected and sworn in by Superintendent Dr. Gudiel Crosthwaite. He was additionally recognized with a Certificate of Recognition as an outstanding Board president on behalf of the office of Councilmember Nanette Barragán, newly elected city Mayor Oscar Flores and the Office of Assemblymember Mike Gipson.
Gary Hardie Jr., appointed in 2014, was selected to serve as the new vice president of the Board, and Dr. Alma Carina Castro, appointed in 2020, was selected as the new clerk.
Previous Vice President Julian Del Real-Calleros, who has served on the board since 2021, will continue serving the community as a member of the Board. He was sworn in by previous Mayor of Lynwood, Jose Casanova. Board member Maria G Lopez, who was appointed in 2003, will continue within her current role for the next year.
The Board members and Cabinet were all recognized for their selfless efforts in keeping the District whole and ensuring students were provided with ample opportunities and resources to succeed. A dinner celebration was held after the ceremony in honor of a successful year at Lynwood Unified.
“This year was one of many trials, and we prevailed because we have an incredible team of individuals who care about our students first and foremost,” Crosthwaite said. “I’m incredibly honored to have worked alongside them all and look forward to collaborating more with them for another year. Great things lie ahead for our students and our District in 2023.”
Jan. 20, 2023