First published in the March 31 print issue of the Outlook Valley Sun.
I would like to take a moment to thank all the members of LCFEF and LCUSD for an outstanding gala on March 26. It was truly lovely to see so many parents having a wonderful time raising money for our outstanding schools.
I was very fortunate to be honored and recognized at the gala with the Spirit of Service Award. This award truly belongs to all the people I have had the pleasure to work alongside at LCE and PCY, to the giving and passionate parents I have volunteered with since our first born entered kindergarten in 2006 at PCY, and to my incredible and generous husband (and LCHS ‘84 alum), Jason.
It has been such an incredible journey raising our children in La Cañada Flintridge and watching them grow into curious, industrious and compassionate young adults. Much of this is due to the outstanding teachers and curriculum offered by LCUSD, but I think it can mostly be attributed to being part of an incredible village of families.
I would also like to thank 2020 SOSA recipient Soo Choi for all of her hard work and dedication to LCFEF and LCUSD. I have been fortunate enough to work with her on many projects, raise my children alongside her wonderful sons, and, most importantly, call her a friend. People like Soo Choi and many others make our community beyond magical.
Three of our four kids are attending four-year universities out of state, and listening to them talk about their experiences sticks with me because they truly recognize the gift they have been given with an education in La Cañada. The opportunities they have had through this village to explore their interests, from various clubs, sports and after-school enrichment opportunities (many staffed by parent volunteers), have provided them with the tools to make our world more vibrant, inclusive and optimistic.
Thank you all again, from the bottom of my heart, for being a vehicle for this journey and for giving me the pleasure of being a part of this village.
Billie Melillo
La Cañada Flintridge
