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Rialto Unified School District

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Key to the District

Rialto Unified School District Key to the District logo

Key to the District Archive

The Key

The Rialto Unified School District's "Key to the District" is an annual recognition from the Board of Education that was established in the 2008-2009 school year. Each sitting Board of Education Member is given an opportunity to award one 8x11 golden plaque Key, per school year, to an individual or a group. The awardee's information is to be added on the public agenda of the school board meeting and publicly presented and promoted at a televised RUSD school board meeting.

The Criteria

The Key to the District is the highest annual recognition/accolade by a sitting Board of Education Member, within the RUSD. This recognition is presented to an individual (staff member, parent advocate and/or community group advocating for student success). In 2017, with the District's introduction and adoption of the Strategic Plan, the main criteria for recipients of the Key to the District evolved to embody the Body, Soul, and Spirit concept in holistically supporting students, RUSD families, and staff. The prestigious award is bestowed to five recipients each year at an RUSD School Board of Education school board meeting with proper marketing and promotion that follows. Additionally, a perpetual plaque can be viewed at the front of the District's Dr. Kazalunas Education Center, and each RUSD Key to the District recipient's pictures are posted on the District's website. It is requested that each Board Member (trustee) select the recipient based on the criteria that the honoree has at least made a five (5) year contribution to RUSD students, families and staff. It is discouraged to honor a board member's family or close friend who may not have a direct impact on student success.

2025-2026 School Year

Joseph W. Martinez, Board of Education Vice President, awards Simpson Elementary School Principal with the Key to the District on November 12, 2025

Mrs. Ramona Rodriguez, Simpson Elementary School District 
Presented by Board Vice President, Mr. Joseph W. Martinez
Wednesday, November 12, 2025