Unique Program is in its 17th Year

The San Bernardino City Unified School District’s (SBCUSD) Positive Youth Development department hosted a successful Operation Student Recovery on Wednesday, August 23, visiting the homes of 409 students who have not attended school since the start of the new school year on July 31.

Operation Student Recovery (OSR) is designed to take a proactive approach to supporting students who have not attended school so far this year. Near the start of the school year and the start of a new semester, teams of SBCUSD administrators and community volunteers visit the homes of truant students to personally invite them back to school and offer assistance in overcoming whatever barriers are preventing their attendance.

“With everything going on in the world today, from inflation to major weather events, not to mention everyday issues like making sure students get to school on time, we know it can be difficult to make sure students are in class, on time every single school day. And SBCUSD wants to help in whatever way we can,” said Positive Youth Development Director Dr. Marlene Bicondova. “We want our families to know that we are here to support them, not just in teaching the ABCs, but in helping families make sure children receive a healthy breakfast and lunch every school day, safe after-school care, and the family support needed to make sure students succeed.”

A total of 60 participants went out in teams of two or three to visit the homes of 409 students in San Bernardino and Highland. Volunteers included San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran, several assistant superintendents and department directors, as well as local youth probation officers and community members.

“I want to thank SBCUSD for creating Operation Student Recovery,” said Mayor Helen Tran. This initiative reflects the school district’s dedication to ensuring that every student has the chance to thrive and succeed. It embodies the very essence of community, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to the future of our students.”

School attendance is mandatory in California for students starting at age 6. All school-age children must be enrolled in and participate in an approved educational program appropriate for their age and, in the case of Special Education students, their Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Families who are not currently enrolled in an educational program can contact SBCUSD to get enrolled immediately by visiting the District’s enrollment webpage or calling (909) 889-7576.