A Santa Maria Valley teen’s push to take advantage of his time in the juvenile justice system to earn a high school degree and plot his future career earned him the inaugural Joe Howell Legacy Scholarship. 

Andrew Jose Garcia Vasquez, 17, a graduate of the Santa Barbara County Education Office’s Juvenile Court and Community Schools program, received the honor Thursday afternoon during the Santa Barbara County Board of Education meeting in Santa Maria.

“This scholarship is not only a recognition of what you have done and what you accomplished, but it’s also about supporting what you will do going forward because of what you’ve  accomplished so far,” County Superintendent of Schools Susan Salcido said. 

Howell, a Santa Barbara resident, also participated in the presentation for the scholarship to boost students and adults pursuing college or career training.

Both Howell and Salcido noted the recipient’s role as a pioneer.

“We’re so proud that it’s you,” Salcido added.

“No one else can say they got the first scholarship. That will always be your honor,” Howell said.

After serving on the county board for 25 years, Howell retired in 2024 and inspired creation of the award to honor the students who “push forward, even when the road isn’t easy.”

“It’s really exciting to see this scholarship come to life,” Howell said.

He called supporting students who overcome challenges and pursue their dreams among a highlight of serving on the county board.

“The scholarship really represents much more because it honors not only you but all those who helped you along the way…” Howell told the teen. 

Board President Marybeth Carty joined Howell and Salcido in presenting Garcia Vasquez with a framed certificate, $500 check, and bouquet “recognizing your accomplishments and your bright future ahead.”

The teen immediately presented the flowers to his mother in the audience, an action that Salcido noted was not scripted.

In addition to his mother and grandmother, several other family members and friends attended the ceremony along with the educators involved in the county schools programs. 

In thanking those who have supported him, Garcia Vasquez also mentioned his dad along with the uncles who urged him to earn his diploma. 

“That’s one reason I actually pushed myself to do this,” the teen said.

He also recognized his various teachers who supported him, including at the court school and when he attended Pioneer Valley High School. 

“My future goals are I really want to be a plumber and make some good money there. I just really want to support my family,” said Garcia Vasquez, who attended SBCEO’s Dos Puertas School. 

One of his teachers, Amanda Daniels, sent a written message of support for her former student’s accomplishments since she couldn’t attend the event.

Daniels had encouraged the youth to apply for the award and wrote a glowing letter urging his selection.

“Andrew has faced life’s challenges, but he has not let those define him,” Daniels wrote in the letter read by one of her colleagues. 

“While attending court school he showed great respect for both staff and peers,” she added, recalling his dedication to his studies and request to sit in the front row to ensure he remained focused on lessons.

“Andrew, you have started what I hope to be a long-lasting legacy of student achievement at the court school. We, as a school staff, are extremely proud of you. You have set a new standard for what is possible and we cannot wait to see the amazing things the future holds for you,” Daniels added.