Before the Rancho Cucamonga High School varsity football team played against the Etiwanda Eagles in the annual pink-out game, one of their most important football games of the year, RCHS’ Student Achievement and the varsity football team highlighted the hardworking teachers and counselors. 

Before the game, Student Achievement reached out to the team players, allowing them to choose the staff member who they felt had made a strong impact on them or their lives. Several staff members were picked by the football players to be recognized as part of the special event. In total, 40 staff members were recognized as they walked out with their player before the game started. Afterwards, staff and their family were encouraged to enjoy snacks and games set up near the end zone.

Players chose a staff member to honor. Staff members were surprised with gift bags packed by Student Achievement with pink-out gear, a customized t-shirt, and a medal to celebrate the game. 

One of these staff members was English teacher Mr. Daniel Mendez. 

“They came in and they gave me a little goodie bag, then they both told me that I was going to walk out with them,” Mendez said.

Mendez expressed his gratitude toward his past students who selected him, explaining how he felt ecstatically overwhelmed and greatly appreciative in the moment. Mendez’s former students Noah Ojeda and Kingston Brooks selected him. Mendez taught the students during their freshman year. Biology teacher, Ms. Alexis Duncan, shared a mutual feeling of appreciation towards being a part of this event.

“I was very grateful, you know what I mean, to be recognized by a past student. I had Malik two years ago, so for him to still appreciate what I did for him two years ago means a lot.” 

Senior Malik White, whom Duncan had in his sophomore year, chose her for the staff appreciation event because of the bond that they’ve grown over the years. Duncan described her past student as hardworking, respectful, and intelligent. 

Duncan elaborated on the importance of this kind of recognition by students. 

“It’s very important because it’s a lot of work. It’s not about the money, because, teachers don’t get paid what they deserve for how much work they put in,” Duncan said. “It’s important so that teachers don’t leave the industry to go do other things. Knowing that they are appreciated and that the students care about them and all their efforts are worth it. It keeps you in the game.”

Director of Student Achievement Ms. Tiffini Ewing explained Student Achievement’s intentions while setting up this event. 

“Our goal was just to recognize our staff members. So making sure they feel loved, in coordination with football,” Ewing said. 

Overall, this event recognized the contributions made by staff members that often go overlooked by allowing their own students to be able to honor them. The Student Achievement and varsity football team made this event into an opportunity to commend their staff for their constant hard work.