SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. (February 20, 2019) – On February 20, 2019, former Board of Education members Julie Giulioni and Elisabeth Eilers were honored by South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) administrators with the Golden Apple Award, sponsored by the Northwest San Gabriel Valley Administrators Association.
Elisabeth Eilers was on the school board for 14 years and ran for the position after she saw a need to bring stability and thoughtful, proactive leadership beyond the roles she had assumed as a school site volunteer and active parent, including serving on a high school task force study team. Julie Giulioni had been a PTA president, SPEF president, program coordinator for the PTSA and, as was Mrs. Eilers, a member of the School Site Council at several District schools. Mrs. Giulioni served on the Board of Education for five years.
Eilers and Giulioni were selected for recognition based upon their willingness to serve through challenging times. Fiscal management and the establishment of collaborative practices with all constituents and school leaders were key among their contributions.
Under their leadership, a $98 million bond measure and three parcel tax measures were passed, and major construction projects were completed including a new middle school gymnasium, administration office and library, and a high school STEM building. The two further shepherded the successful implementation of kindergarten through fifth grade Spanish and Mandarin dual language programs and kindergarten through 12th grade articulated career pathway courses in engineering, arts, bio-medicine, and business. Additionally, the elementary, middle school, and high school counseling model was redesigned, infusing appropriate and timely mental health supports for all students.
Eilers and Giulioni leave the district in strong financial standing, having a balanced budget while providing SPUSD employees with highly competitive salaries. Their leadership exemplifies the highest order of praise from their nominators…grace, kindness, integrity, appreciation, and a students-first approach to all problems. Their calm supportive demeanor in the face of extraordinary challenges helped to set a tone of respect and civility.
About South Pasadena Unified School District
Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,800 students within five schools including three elementary schools, one middle school and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California. Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation for providing high quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state and national level. The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs and booster clubs.
For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, [email protected]