On Friday, March 6, Hemet Unified School District hosted its annual State of the District and Principal for a Day event at the active construction site of Pleasant Valley Elementary School, set to open in Fall 2026. Community leaders first gathered to hear Superintendent Dr. Christi Barrett deliver the State of the District before heading out to various HUSD school sites for visits. The event was held inside the school’s multipurpose room, which is still under construction, offering attendees a firsthand look at HUSD’s newest campus as it continues to take shape.
Throughout the morning, Superintendent Dr. Christi Barrett shared many celebrations from across the district, highlighting the positive work taking place throughout HUSD and the collective efforts supporting student success. As part of the festivities, attendees were invited to sign the steps of the stage, leaving their mark on the school before it officially opens to students and families in the Winchester community.
The event included the official unveiling of Pleasant Valley Elementary School’s new logo and mascot - the Penguin - selected with input from the community. The penguin represents teamwork, adaptability, and creativity, qualities reflected in the way penguins work together and navigate their environment. The mascot also honors the school’s Visual and Performing Arts focus, as penguins - known for their natural “tuxedo” - are also the mascot for the prestigious Julliard School.
“It was special to have our community here today to be part of this moment,” said Pleasant Valley Principal Tiffany Grant. “Pleasant Valley will be a place where students feel inspired to learn, express themselves, and grow in a school community that celebrates their talents.”
After the morning program, guests traveled to school sites across the district where they were treated to a firsthand look at the school day in action. During their visits, participants stepped into classrooms, observed students during lunch activities, and enjoyed student performances that highlighted the talents and learning taking place across Hemet Unified. The experience offered a meaningful opportunity to see students and staff in action and gain a deeper understanding of the work happening in schools each day.
The event brought together a distinguished group of dignitaries and community leaders who joined district administrators to learn more about the many initiatives underway across Hemet Unified. Among those in attendance were HUSD Board Members Stacey Bailey, Jeremy Parsons, and Dr. Jeff Slepski, as well as Dr. Edwin Gomez, Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Bruce Dennis of the Riverside County Board of Education, and Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington. Also participating were Lilian Averette from the Office of Congressman Raul Ruiz, and several local elected leaders, including Hemet Mayor Linda Krupa, Mayor Pro Tem Joe Males, and City Council Member Jackie Peterson.
Higher education and regional partners were also represented, including Dr. Roger Schultz, President of Mt. San Jacinto College; Calvin Smith, Mt. San Jacinto College Board of Trustees; and Christopher Carnes, Valley-Wide Board of Directors. Their participation highlighted the strong partnerships that exist across the region in support of student success.
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When it opens in fall 2026, Pleasant Valley Elementary School will become Hemet Unified School District’s 29th school, serving the growing Winchester area. The school will also feature a Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) focus, providing students with expanded opportunities to explore creativity, artistic expression, and innovation as part of their educational experience.
