Thanksgiving Reflections: A Message from Dr. Elizabeth Blanco, PUSD Superintendent

The Superintendent’s Leadership Team (left to right) Dr. Helen Chan Hill, Dr. Sergio Canal, Hilda Ramirez Horvath, Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco, Saman Bravo-Karimi, Dr. Julianne Reynoso

Dear PUSD Community,

As we approach Thanksgiving, we reflect on what makes schools in our district incredible places to learn and grow. This season of gratitude is an opportunity to share what fills our hearts, what we appreciate, and what motivates us.

I’m grateful for the privilege of working for the students, staff, and families of PUSD to advance learning and prepare children to be successful in college and careers. I would like to thank every employee of PUSD for their work and dedication. Public education work is inspiring, challenging – and everything in between.

I could not do this work without the expertise and support of the Superintendent’s Leadership Team. They are extraordinary individuals whose expertise, experience, and passion for excellence are making a real difference in our district.

I asked them to share what they’re grateful for this Thanksgiving. Here are their responses.

Chief Academic Officer Helen Chan Hill, Ed.D.: “I am grateful for the hardworking colleagues we have in PUSD, who are thoughtful and intentional about fostering a joyful environment for our students.”

Chief Business Officer Saman Bravo-Karimi
“I’m grateful to have joined the PUSD family and to work with such talented and dedicated people.”

Chief Human Resources Officer Sergio Canal, Ed.D.
“I’m most thankful for the support, love, and presence of family and close friends, and I am grateful for the health of my loved ones and personal health.”

Assistant Superintendent of Student Wellness and Support Julianne Reynoso, Ed.D.,
“Each day offers boundless reasons to be grateful—moments of kindness, the lessons we learned from overcoming obstacles, and the peace that comes from knowing we are never truly alone. I am grateful for what we have, for the hope and connection that come with gratitude, and for the people that make this a great place to work. I’m thankful for my family, friends, and the community of PUSD!”

Hilda Ramirez Horvath, Public Information Officer
“I’m grateful to be part of our students’ journey to becoming critical thinkers, eloquent communicators, and empathetic individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world. I’m grateful for my family, friends, and colleagues, and I’m thankful to be part of an extraordinary community that is committed to the growth and progress of students in our schools.”

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Elizabeth Blanco, Ed.D.
Superintendent

Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), 351 S. Hudson Avenue, Pasadena, (626) 396-3600 or visit www.pusd.us.