Two administrators and six students in the Long Beach Public Schools have received special recognitions from the Long Beach Latino Civic Association. Coordinator of ENL and Student Internships Evelyn Daza was presented with an Educator of the Year award, while Adult & Continuing Education Program Manager Gina Reddock was distinguished with a Community Service Award to represent the Long Beach Adult Learning Center and the services provided for over 50 years in the community. Students earned Rising Star Awards based on teacher nominations. 

Each year, in conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month, the LCA hosts a gala where distinctions are bestowed upon deserving Latino individuals in the community. The Rising Star student honorees from the Long Beach Public Schools are Dulce Amaya Reyes (LBHS), Angnery Leon Goris (LBMS), Jose Flores Casco (Lido), Adairis Jiminez (Lindell), Antonio Jiminez (East) and K’Mayla Montoya (West). 

Ms. Daza has been a valuable asset to the district’s ENL learners and focuses on strengthening the connection between the schools and Spanish speaking community. She has introduced many initiatives including ENL Parent Academy, ENL Parent Teacher Conference Evening and ENL Family Fun Night. She has also established relationships with local businesses to bring internship opportunities into the high school and support college- and career-readiness. 

Ms. Reddock’s leadership at the Long Beach Adult Learning Center (ALC) has continued and expanded programs for adults to receive education and services that will support them in fostering skills that are useful in securing jobs and financial stability. She oversaw the ALC in obtaining an Integrated English Language and Civics Education grant through the State Education Department, as well as funding to become a satellite site for the Department of Occupational Resources. 

As Program Manager, Gina leads the ALC staff to accomplish its mission to empower adults through education to reach their greatest potential as learners, parents, consumers and citizens. The ALC, in existence for over 50 years, provides Adult Basic Education, English for Speakers of Other Languages, High School Equivalency Preparation, College and Vocational School preparation, and Career and Workplace readiness classes. 

Congratulations to these award recipients, as well as all others from the community who were commended at the LCA event.