BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT HAPPENINGS
FEBRUARY 2026
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Celebrating Black History Month: A Time to Learn, Honor, and Be Inspired!
Parent/Teacher Conferences
February is Black History Month—a special time to celebrate the amazing achievements of African Americans and recognize how they have helped shape our country. Our community of Barstow is proud of this rich history. Did you know that nearly 19% of our residents are African American? That’s one of the highest percentages in California! A long time ago, African American pioneers came to our area. In the early 1900s, brave individuals moved to the Lanfair Valley north of Barstow, where they built farms and businesses. They worked hard to create a better life for themselves in the desert, showing great courage and hope. Today, many Black veterans and service members call Barstow home, thanks to its nearby military bases. Throughout February, we celebrate Black History Month to learn about these stories, like Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, and Carter G. Woodson, who started Black History Month in 1926. Their stories were often left out of history books, but this month gives us a chance to understand the full story of America—one that includes struggles, resilience, and triumphs.
Black History Month also reminds us of inspiring leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, who stood up for what was right and helped change the world. And it’s a time to celebrate the wonderful culture created by Black Americans—through music like jazz and hip-hop, stories, art, and more—that makes America a richer, more colorful place. At Barstow Unified, we ensure every student feels seen and inspired. Look for special library displays, classroom projects, and community events throughout February. Let’s make this a time of discovery and appreciation. We are proud of our history, our community, and our students!
Why We Celebrate in February: A Tale of Two Birthdays
This February, our schools will observe two holidays to celebrate both Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday and Presidents’ Day originally created to celebrate George Washington’s Birthday.This is a special time for students and families to reflect on the history of the American presidency and the leaders who shaped our nation. Established by Congress in 1879, this holiday was created to honor our first president, George Washington. As the "Father of His Country," Washington led the Continental Army and set the standard for all presidents who followed. While the federal holiday officially honors Washington, we also take this time to remember Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is February 12. Known as the "Great Emancipator," Lincoln led the U.S. through the Civil War and worked to end slavery. Because his birthday is so close to Washington’s, many people choose to celebrate both icons together. In 1968, a law called the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the celebration of Presidents’ Day to the third Monday of February. This created a long weekend for families and placed the holiday right between Washington’s and Lincoln’s actual birthdays. Today, whether you call it Washington’s Birthday or Presidents' Day, it is a day to honor all those who have served in the highest office of our country.
We are Hiring! www.edjoin.org/barstowusd
BUSD December Employees of the Month
Classified Elementary: Certificated Elementary: Classified Secondary: Certificated Secondary: Classified Substitute: Certificated Substitute: District Classified: Management Team: Superintendent’s Choice:
Diana Guardado Joey Zamora- Vargas Anissa Santos Michelle Colleoc Derrell Givens Lourdes Quesada Alma Esquivel Deidre Long Robin Nowotny
Barstow Fine Arts Academy Crestline Elementary Barstow Junior High School Central High School
Pupil Services Director, Risk Management Montara Elementary
Click the QR code for a complete list of career opportunities at BUSD.
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