10/22/2026
During today's State of Our Schools Breakfast, WCCUSD proudly honored four outstanding leaders whose dedication, service, and contributions reflect our True North vision.
🌟 Guiding Light Award – Welcoming Schools: Kenitra Mitchell
WCCUSD proudly recognized Kenitra Mitchell with the Guiding Light Award for her leadership in creating welcoming and inclusive school communities. As a Community School Site Director, Kenitra played an important role in supporting students and families during the Betty Reid Soskin and Pinole Middle School merger, helping families access information, resources, and support for a successful start to the school year. Her dedication reflects our commitment to ensuring every student and family feels safe, respected, and included.
🌟 Guiding Light Award – Courageous Scholarship: RocĂo Reyes
WCCUSD proudly recognized Richmond High School Principal RocĂo Reyes with the Guiding Light Award for her leadership and commitment to advancing academic excellence and student success. Her dedication to creating meaningful learning opportunities reflects our Courageous Scholarship pillar, which focuses on preparing students for a rapidly changing world through rigorous, future-focused academics.
🌟 Guiding Light Award – Connected Systems of Support: Jenn Rader
WCCUSD proudly recognized Jenn Rader, LCSW, founder and former director of the James Morehouse Project at El Cerrito High School, with the Guiding Light Award for her leadership in connecting students and families with essential resources and support. Through her work, Jenn helped create a welcoming space offering mental health services, counseling, health care, and youth development opportunities. Her dedication reflects our commitment to building connected systems of support that help students and school communities thrive.
🌟 True North Award: Tony Thurmond
WCCUSD honored California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond with the True North Award in recognition of his leadership in public education and commitment to expanding opportunities for students. From serving on the Richmond City Council and WCCUSD Board of Education to leading education efforts statewide, his contributions reflect our three True North pillars: Welcoming Schools, Courageous Scholarship, and Connected Systems of Support.