SPUSD Recognizes Dr. Michele Kipke with the 2026 Golden Apple Award

South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) is proud to announce Dr. Michele Kipke as the recipient of the Association of California School Administrators’ Golden Apple Award for Volunteerism. On March 19, 2026, Superintendent Angela Elizondo Baxter publicly recognized Dr. Kipke’s extraordinary service to South Pasadena Unified.

Since 2008, Dr. Kipke has served on the SPUSD School Board, providing strategic direction to the District and insisting on outstanding education for the children of South Pasadena. She has led the board as president numerous times throughout her tenure and has upheld a culture of stability, growth, and respect during the past 18 years. For example, Dr. Kipke was president of the School Board when COVID hit, and immediately brought in public health experts to help guide the board in order to make evidence-based decisions.

In addition to being a valued School Board member, Dr. Kipke is a Professor of Pediatrics and an Associate Senior Vice President at the University of Southern California. She has two daughters and served as Vice President of Strategic Planning for the South Pasadena Educational Foundation and as a leader of the Marengo PTA. She is also proud of helping create the Special Needs Committee, which is now an official committee under the PTA with two board member representatives.

Thank you to Dr. Kipke for countless hours of energy, dedication, and volunteer service benefiting the children of South Pasadena Unified School District. We are forever grateful for your commitment and support.

About South Pasadena Unified School District

Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,700 students within five schools including three elementary schools, one middle school and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California. Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation for providing high quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state and national level. The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs and booster clubs.

For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, scarroll@spusd.net.