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Our Stories

Community Support Shines at PUSD’s “Reopen, Restore, Rebuild & Rise” Event

PEF’s Marleni Jimenez, Chef Michelle Bracken, PUSD Superintendent Dr. Blanco, and PUSD Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Helen Hill

The Pasadena Educational Foundation (PEF) recently supported PUSD’s “Reopen, Restore, Rebuild & Rise” professional development day, held on January 22, 2025, at Pasadena City College. This event served as a welcome back for PUSD staff following the Eaton Fire, just one day before the first group of schools were set to reopen.

PEF partnered with Chef Michelle Bracken, who was referred by the Tournament of Roses, to coordinate food donations for PUSD staff. “Chef Michelle” reached out to local culinary establishments, securing contributions from Porto’s Bakery and Chef Suzanne Goin of A.O.C. All have been actively supporting the Pasadena community in the wake of the fire and readily agreed to participate. This collaboration showcased the foundation’s role in facilitating community partnerships to benefit PUSD.

The event provided a warm welcome back for PUSD staff, offering both nourishment and community support as they prepared to return to their roles. It demonstrated how local businesses and organizations have united to assist educators during challenging times.