During the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) Board of Education meeting held on Tuesday, April 8, two accomplished students from the Venture Academy Choir, Michaela John and Drew Thompson, delivered individual vocal performances under the direction of their instructor, Ms. Carmen Coindreau. Michaela performed “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars, followed by Drew’s rendition of “Beyond the Sea” by Robbie Williams.
Since its founding in 2022, the Venture Academy Choir has served as a testament to the power of music in fostering perseverance, teamwork, and self-expression within the District’s Adult Transition Program. Under Ms. Coindreau’s dedicated leadership, students have cultivated not only their vocal abilities but also essential personal and collaborative skills.
Following the musical performances, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, Dr. Olivia Yaung, formally recognized three exemplary elementary schools—Golden, Lakeview, and Sierra Vista—for their designation as 2025 California Distinguished Schools. This distinction represents the highest honor awarded to K-12 public schools in the state and acknowledges outstanding educational programs and academic excellence.
Subsequently, Director of Secondary Education, Mr. Michael Young, honored two of the District’s academic competition teams for their exceptional achievements at both county and state levels. The Valencia High School Academic Decathlon team earned 2nd place overall in Division 1 and secured 1st place in the Super Quiz category at the Orange County Academic Decathlon. The team’s impressive performance, marked by a substantial medal count, qualified them for advancement to the state-level competition.
In addition, El Dorado High School’s Mock Trial team was recognized for being named the 2024–25 Orange County Champions after completing an undefeated 8–0 season. This accomplishment marks El Dorado’s eighth county championship, tying them with Woodbridge High School for the most titles in program history. Notably, El Dorado remains the only high school to have earned at least one county title in every decade since the Orange County Mock Trial program’s inception.
To conclude the recognitions, Executive Director of Elementary Education, Dr. Liz León, acknowledged the District’s student finalists in the prestigious Chapman University Sala and Aron Samueli Holocaust Art & Writing Contest. These students were commended for their creative and thoughtful submissions, which reflect a deep engagement with themes of history, empathy, and remembrance.
The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude for the students’ extraordinary accomplishments. Board of Education Trustees and Acting Superintendent Dr. Michael Mucerino joined the recognized students for a commemorative photo, capturing a moment of pride in the District’s continued tradition of excellence across academics, the arts, and civic engagement.
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