The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District’s Board of Education and superintendent have been named recipients of the 2026 LEAD Award by the California Latino School Boards Association (CLSBA).

Feliciano Aguilar, board president, left; clerk Alma Hernandez; trustees Dave Baskett, Magdaleno Serrano, and Tammie Castillo Shriffer; and Superintendent Antonio Garcia.(Courtesy photo)
Feliciano Aguilar, School Board president, left; clerk Alma Hernandez; trustees Dave Baskett, Magdaleno Serrano, and Tammie Castillo Shriffer; and Superintendent Antonio Garcia.( Courtesy photo)

This distinguished recognition celebrates school districts that exemplify unity in leadership, a steadfast commitment to equity, and an unwavering dedication to serving students and families.

SMJUHSD was selected for going above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrating exceptional collaboration and vision in advancing educational outcomes for all.

School Board trustee Tammie Castillo Shiffer and Superintendent Antonio Garcia accepted the honor at the CLSBA Unity Conference recently in San Diego.

“We are deeply grateful for this recognition, which celebrates unity in leadership and a steadfast commitment to serving students and families through an equity lens, to ensure our students have the best educational opportunities and resources available to succeed,” Castillo Shriffer said.

“Our board remains committed to advocating for policies and practices that uplift our students, whose success is vital to the future of our community and our state,” she said.

Our Board of Education members are Feliciano Aguilar, president; Alma Hernandez, clerk; and trustees Dave Baskett, Magdaleno Serrano, and Castillo Shriffer.

SMJUHSD is one of two districts in Santa Barbara County to receive this recognition.