Schools

The nonprofit Rancho-Maze Band recently paid tribute to the legacy of Joe Ostenson—a pillar of the local music-education community for nearly half a century—by recognizing a local young musician who exemplifies the characteristics of the life-long educator.  Marguerite Maze Middle School eighth-grader Megan Phillips was...

Shaffer earns bachelor’s degree Brooke Shaffer, of Hollister, received a bachelor of science degree in Human Environmental Sciences from the University of Alabama.  The university awarded more than 5,800 degrees during its spring commencement ceremonies.  A recent economic analysis found that a degree from The University of...

The San Benito County Office of Education recognized some of the county’s most inspiring educators at the annual Certificated and Classified Employee of the Year celebration on May 25 at the Hollister High School auditorium. The awards ceremony is held annually to honor school staff...

Hundreds of San Benito County teens took their next big steps in life at the June 9 Hollister High School graduation ceremony, which took place at the campus athletic field.  The ceremony featured remarks and refrains led by graduates, including Senior Class Vice President Donnobhain...

Hollister High School this week announced its top 10 students in the Class of 2023, based on grade point average and other academic factors.  This year’s Hollister High valedictorian is Ava Thatcher, and the salutatorian is Alejandro Beltran, according to the school’s announcement. The remainder...

Seventeen Hollister High School seniors received medals at a recognition luncheon last week to honor the fact that they had perfect attendance throughout all four years on campus. Not all students were available during the lunchtime event, but the five present received a welcome...

It’s somewhat improbable that both Julie Maldonado and her daughter, Mary Villegas, have worked simultaneously in the Hollister School District for multiple decades.  Perhaps even more astonishing is that Villegas has taught for 20 years with cerebral palsy.  The duo reflected on their time and experiences...

Gavilan graduate awarded $20K scholarship Gavilan College graduate Josephine Torres, who will be transferring to UC Santa Cruz in the fall, has been awarded that institution’s Karl S. Pister Leadership Opportunity Scholarship for 2023.  Torres is a biology major whose career goal is to help people...

Ninety-four seniors in the Hollister High School Class of 2023 have earned the California State Seal of Biliteracy, demonstrating that they attained proficiency in English and at least one other language: either Spanish, French or American Sign Language, according to school district staff.  This is...

R.O. Hardin Elementary School in early May hosted school leaders from throughout the nation who came to witness an innovative early literacy program and learn how to replicate its success.  The Hollister School District site May 4 hosted educational leaders who included state superintendents, governors...