Community, Creativity, and Connection at Pasadena City Hall
2026 Photo Gallery >>
A Night of Connection and Celebration
The courtyard came alive with conversation, music, and energy as guests gathered to enjoy light bites, drinks, and time together. Community leaders, educators, families, and supporters connected with one another and with the students whose work and experiences were at the heart of the evening.
Honoring Champions of Public Education
The evening honored Dawn and Jim O’Keeffe, filmmakers, volunteers, and champions of public education. Through their work on Go Public: A Day in the Life of an American School District and their years of service to Pasadena Unified and the Pasadena Educational Foundation, they have helped elevate the voices and experiences of students and educators while strengthening connections across the community.
Music and Performances
Music and movement were woven throughout the evening, bringing energy across the courtyard. Guests were welcomed by the Pasadena High School Orchestra, experienced the vibrant traditions of the Field Elementary Lion Dance, and were surprised by a powerful performance from more than 100 members of the All Star Marching Band as they moved through City Hall. The All Star Marching Band will be performing in the 2027 Rose Parade.
Interactive Student Showcase: Discover PUSD Gems
At the center of the evening was the Interactive Student Showcase, featuring 11 student-led exhibits that invited guests to explore learning across the district. Each exhibit offered a hands-on experience, with guests collecting colored glass “gems” along the way.
Write a Sci-Fi Story – Octavia E. Butler Magnet
Contribute to a collaborative story where each addition builds a new world.
Lion Dance Experience – Field Elementary
Get an up-close look at the lions, dragon, drums, and costumes following the performance.
Painting with Light – John Muir Early College Magnet
Use UV light to reveal hidden layers within student self-portraits.
Arroyo Seco Connections – Farm to School
Add a thread to a growing network that reflects the Arroyo Seco ecosystem.
Build a Bird & Nest – Sierra Madre Elementary
Create a bird and nest inspired by local habitats and the idea of home.
Design a Youth Conference – PUSD Student Leadership
Share ideas for sessions and topics that reflect what matters most to students.
Art is Medicine – San Rafael Elementary / AAPC
Add a symbol or word to a collaborative artwork inspired by community and place.
Inside KLRN – KLRN
Explore how students capture and share stories through broadcasting and live events.
Farmers Market Science – Washington Magnet Elementary
Engage with hands-on activities connecting food, farming, and science.
Reimagining the 710 – John Muir Early College Magnet (ACE Program)
Explore student-designed concepts for the future of the 710 corridor.
Step into the Medieval World – Eliot Arts Magnet
Experience history through immersive environments from the Silk Road to medieval France.
The showcase highlighted the range of experiences and ideas across Pasadena Unified.
Thank You
Thank you to our students, educators, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, and community for making this evening possible.
Special thanks to the Achieving America Family Foundation, The Helen and Will Webster Foundation, TYTON, and Jane Kaczmarek.
A full list of our sponsors and patrons can be found here.
