LA HABRA : Four Are Honored for Work in Schools

Four residents have received Golden Apple awards for their work with city schools. The La Habra Masonic Lodge gave trophies to La Habra City School District’s bilingual director, Gail Reed; instructional aide Beatriz Herrera, and two volunteers, Nena Herrera and City Councilman Juan M. Garcia.

“I know from my own and my children’s experience going to school in La Habra that we learn the most from those who give of themselves to teach others,” said Randy McMillan, worshipful master of the La Habra Masonic Lodge. “We appreciate all they have done for our community.”

He said that Beatriz Herrera, who works at Las Positas Elementary School, got a Golden Apple because she often volunteers to visit Spanish-speaking students’ homes and telephones their parents to translate for teachers.

Her sister, Nena, volunteers at Las Positas and helps a fifth-grade teacher in a bilingual class.

Reed was commended for developing a unique bilingual program, setting up parenting groups and instituting Spanish classes for parents, community members, the Police Department and teachers.

Garcia received a Golden Apple for the time he has spent with youths through sports and academics since 1970.

“It’s a real credit to their volunteer efforts for them to be honored this way,” Supt. Richard A. Hermann said. “They’re outstanding people who are really trying to make a difference in the classroom.”