2024 Excellence in Education
Education Professional
Dr. Gabe Petrocelli
In 1968, a young educator stepped into the realm of teaching, unaware that his footsteps would echo across the halls of education for decades to come. Dr. Gabe Petrocelli's journey was driven by his passion for music, which led him to an incredibly harmonious career in education, shaping young minds and fostering a love for music and learning.
Dr. Petrocelli’s dedication to education evolved into a symphony of service. No matter his title, he orchestrated initiatives to empower students, guiding them towards academic achievement and professional growth.
After entering retirement, Dr. Petrocelli’s service to not only the Chaffey Joint Union High School District (CJUHSD) but the surrounding community, continued. He has lent his expertise as a consultant and temporary instructor, weaving threads of excellence into the fabric of education.
His leadership with the Measure P General Obligation Bond Initiative resulted in an $848 million investment in educational infrastructure. His tireless advocacy for the initiative led to transformative changes throughout CJUHSD, such as state-of-the-art facilities and technological advancements.
Amidst the crescendo of educational reform, Dr. Petrocelli's love for the arts remained unwavering. Leading the Chaffey Ontario Community Show Band, he composed harmonies of joy, captivating audiences with performances that transcended the boundaries of music.
His service, spanning over five decades, has left a permanent mark on the landscape of education and community enrichment. Dr. Petrocelli has spent a lifetime dedicated to the pursuit of excellence, a melody that will echo through generations.
Student Alumni
Amy Avila
In the small town of Needles, California, one name shines brightly in the realm of education: Amy Avila. Her journey from student to a revered educator and leader within the Needles Unified School District is not just a narrative of personal success but a testament to the power of dedication, compassion and unwavering commitment to the betterment of her community.
Amy's ties to the Needles community began long before she was born. After her great grandparents settled in town in 1935, the familial roots grew in the community. Since then, her family has been full of Needles alum, with more than a dozen family members having walked through the halls of an NUSD school.
Amy’s parents both attended school in Needles and and they weren’t the only ones to walk any one of the halls within the school district. Amy, her brother and more than a dozen other family members have all called themselves NUSD students at some point in time.
Amy excelled not only academically but also as a standout softball player, earning multiple state titles during her high school career. She made her way back to the dugout when she returned to her alma mater as a teacher and assistant softball coach. Her impact was immediate and profound, leading her teams to multiple state championships.
No matter the roles she’s taken on, Amy's dedication to NUSD has allowed her to build, nurture and strengthen ties between the school district and the community by organizing community events, forging partnerships with local businesses, and advocating for initiatives that benefit her students and the place she calls home.
Jenny Owen
Director, Communications and Intergovernmental Relations
For additional information, please call 909.386.2413.
601 North E Street
San Bernardino, CA 92415-0020