Feliciano Aguilar, Santa Maria-Bonita School District (SMBSD) psychologist at Liberty Elementary, has been honored with the key to the district by Ricardo Valencia, SMBSD Board member.

Valencia selected Ruiz as his key to the district recipient, and he was recognized at the May 27 School Board meeting.

The Key to the District is the highest recognition awarded by the SMBSD Board to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the district’s mission and values.

Initiated in 2022, the award recognizes teachers, staff, volunteers, and community members for their dedication and positive impact on students and families.

Honorees are selected by an SMBSD board member or trustee.

At the May 27 board meeting, Valencia said Aguilar is not only a valued bilingual school psychologist, but also serves as a board member for the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District.

Valencia called Aguilar, who has been with SMBSD since 2008, a role model.

“His role in expanding our dual-language immersion program, which promotes multilingualism in our district, is greatly appreciated,” Valencia said, adding that Aguilar has been instrumental to the program’s progress.

“Feliciano is a leader in the Santa Maria-Bonita School District and Santa Maria.”

After accepting the award, Aguilar said he plans to continue his work for the district’s committed students, families and colleagues.

“My name is on this, but I think it’s also a reflection of a lot of our community members, and all our teachers (and) staff members that stand beside our students every single day to serve them,” he said.