Torlakson Speaks at Dozier-Libbey High Recognition Bash

By Walter Ruehlig

Dozier-Libbey Medical High School had a recognition bash December 9th that filled a good part of the gymnasium. State Superintendent of Schools Tom Torlakson, introduced by AUSD School Board President Diane Gibson-Gray, was the keynote speaker.

State Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla presented a certificate from the California Legislature honoring the achievement of DLMHS as a California Distinguished School. Dozier-Libbey was also recongnized for being one of a handful of California schools recognized by Connect Ed as a certified Linked Pathways institution.

Principal Nancy Castro and Antioch Superintendent Don Gill beamed at the recognitions and promised that the best was yet to come. They also acknowledged the tireless efforts of Executive Director of Programs and Interventions, Robin Schmitt, in putting together all the pieces of the Linked Pathways programs that has launched Antioch into the innovative forefront state-wide.

Other officials present included representatives from Congressman John Garamendi’s and State Sen. Mark DeSaulnier’s offices; City Council members Gary Agopian and and Mary Rocha; Cynthia Ruehlig, Trustee, County Board of Education; and Antioch School Board members, Diane Gibson-Gray, Vice President Claire Smith, Joy Motts and Walter Ruehlig.

All in attendance seemed wowed at the achievement of a school that is only into its’ fourth year and has held the standard for AUSD marks in attendance, API scores, successful U.C. system entrance requirement completion (A-G) and CAHSEE exit exam marks.

After the festive occasion, which included student speeches and music by the Dozier-Libbey High band, many of the attendees made their way over to Prewett Community Center where Tom Torlakson was honored for his thirty plus years of public service to Antioch. Tom has served as a City Counselor at the ripe age of age 27, a four term County Supervisor, a State Assemblyman and Senator. As the State Superintendent of Schools, Tom is the first Contra Costa official to be elected to a state-wide office.

After a stirring performance by the Antioch Music Masters, conducted by Ron Molina, and remarks by Mayor Jim Davis, City Councilwoman Mary Rocha introduced Tom by commenting on the fact that he sees the worth in, and relates to, everyone, from the Mayor to the blue collar worker.

Tom, from his side, remarked on how Antioch would always be home and that in looking out at old friends he saw his roots, like in the Kiwanis Club members present, Dave Massey, Martha Parsons and Kay Powers, a group that has worked closely with him on his annual Holiday Run that is closing in on four decades in the running.


3 Comments to “Torlakson Speaks at Dozier-Libbey High Recognition Bash”

  1. Josue Bedolla says:

    A small error needs to be corrected within the article. The statement, ” … and music by the Deer Valley High band…” is false in which Deer Valley did not perform any musical literature for the award ceromony. Credit is giving to where credit is due, the Dozier-Libbey band did an outstanding performance; in my opinion.

  2. Melissa says:

    Actually, I believe it was the Dozier-Libbey Medical High School band that played, not the Deer Valley Band.

  3. Publisher says:

    Thank you for that information. The corrections have been made.
    Allen Payton, Publisher

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