The cheers started before guests reached the door at Glendale Educational Foundation’s 2026 State of the Schools breakfast, held October 6 at the Glendale Elks Lodge. 

Pep squads from Crescenta Valley, Glendale and Hoover high schools lined the entrance to the Glendale Elks Lodge, giving community supporters a lively pep rally welcome. It was an enthusiastic start to a morning with a heartfelt purpose: thanking the people who help Glendale Unified students and schools thrive.

Inside, the Hoover High School Jazz Band set the mood as guests gathered and caught up with one another. From the first cheers to the final musical send-off, students brought energy and personality to an event celebrating their accomplishments and the community behind them.

GEF Board Member and Event Chair Shant Kevorkian, Executive Director Bethany Harrington and Board President Manuel Magpapian opened the program with welcoming remarks. Retired GUSD staff member Kris Kohlmeier served as emcee.

A video featuring the Crescenta Valley High School dance team showcased student creativity and talent before the program turned to two employees whose work makes a difference every day. GEF presented Educational Excellence Awards to GUSD Teacher of the Year Gagik Galfayan and Classified Employee of the Year Rodina Elyasi, recognizing their dedication to students and the district community.

Board of Education President Kathleen Cross then addressed guests and reflected on her experience as a GUSD parent and now as a Board member. She introduced Superintendent Dr. Darneika Watson who highlighted GUSD’s accomplishments over the past year and the priorities guiding its work moving forward. Videos showcasing visual and performing arts activities and stories about GUSD students brought those accomplishments to life. 

Together, the presentations gave supporters a closer look at the opportunities their commitment helps create for students.

The morning ended as enthusiastically as it began. Guests departed to the powerful sounds of the award-winning Hoover High School Marching Band, carrying the celebration beyond the breakfast tables.

The event raised more than $32,000 for the Glendale Educational Foundation, turning a morning of celebration into meaningful support for GUSD students and schools.