‘Principal for a Day’ Program Strengthens School-Community Bonds

The Pasadena Educational Foundation hosted its annual Principal for a Day event on Nov. 5, uniting civic, business and community leaders across Pasadena Unified School District campuses in a show of support for local education.

The initiative, now in its 19th year, aims to deepen relationships between schools and the broader community by granting participants a direct look into classroom life and fostering understanding of ongoing educational efforts.

This year’s program held particular significance as schools and families continue recovering from the Eaton Fire, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of students and educators as they work toward normalcy.

“The Principal for a Day program serves as a powerful bridge between schools and the broader community,” said Patrick Conyers, executive director of the Pasadena Educational Foundation.

“It allows participants to see the important work being done in classrooms and to understand the value of investing in our schools.”

Community leaders observed classrooms where learning continued with care and creativity, witnessing students collaborating, asking thoughtful questions and expressing pride in their achievements. Teachers were praised for guiding these experiences with knowledge, consistency and compassion.

Since 2006, nearly 500 community members have participated, reinforcing partnerships and shared goals between local organizations and Pasadena Unified School District schools.

The day concluded with a luncheon for guest principals, Pasadena Unified School District principals and district leaders—an opportunity to share reflections and sustain collaboration in support of students.

Guests represented a range of organizations, including San Jose State University, Kaiser Permanente, Pasadena Symphony, California Credit Union, NAACP Pasadena, City of Pasadena and more.

The Pasadena Educational Foundation expressed gratitude for participants and reaffirmed its mission to develop resources, advocate for public education and foster excellence and equity across Pasadena Unified School District schools.

The district serves more than 14,000 pre-K to 12th grade students over 76 square miles, including Altadena, Pasadena, Sierra Madre and unincorporated parts of Los Angeles County.

Pasadena Unified School District remains committed to delivering a caring, engaging and challenging educational experience grounded in community collaboration.

Pasadena Educational Foundation, 351 South Hudson Ave., Room 153, Pasadena. For more, call (626) 396-3625 or email pef@pasedfoundation.org. Website: www.pasedfoundation.org.