San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) and the San Bernardino County School Boards Association (SBCSBA) recognized five exceptional leaders for their outstanding service and support to public education within San Bernardino County. The five recipients, representing various areas of the County, were honored during the 2026 Spring Awards ceremony held on Apr. 7 at the Sierra Lakes Golf Club in Fontana.

“Whether pitching in on the softball fields, sparking new opportunities, or championing music education, these remarkable leaders have left a lasting imprint on education,” said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. “Their leadership has made it possible to reach students in every corner of our region, spanning across our urban, rural, desert, and mountain communities. We are incredibly proud to recognize their profound impact and the enduring difference they have made through their work.”

The Education Medal of Honor recognizes individuals and groups who make exceptional contributions to public education in San Bernardino County. It highlights the dedication of educators, community members and business partners.

The Distinguished Service Award honors individuals who have demonstrated long-term, exceptional service and leadership in support of education in San Bernardino County.

The following honorees, selected by an independent panel, have been recognized for their exceptional commitment and devotion in their respective categories:

Volunteer in Action/Community Volunteer: Joshua Powell

• A Needles native and 1998 Needles High School graduate, Powell has made a lasting impact through his dedicated volunteerism and service as a Needles Unified School District board member. He also consistently supports multiple athletic programs by preparing facilities, assisting with operations, and bringing energy to every game. Known for his reliability and team-first mindset, Powell’s commitment is driven by a genuine desire to support students, strengthen school pride, and build community.

Partner in Education/Corporation or Government Agency: Jesse Armendarez, Second District Supervisor

• As Second District Supervisor, Jesse Armendarez is dedicated to strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for students across the region. A champion for disadvantaged youth, he ignited the creation of the SPARK program, which provides over 100 youth, including foster youth, with internships, mentorships, job training, and career certifications. Now supported countywide, SPARK has become a key part of the County’s youth development and workforce readiness efforts.

Excellence in Education/Education Professional: Anne-Marie Cabrales

• A longtime educator with over 30 years of service to Fontana Unified School District, Cabrales has been named founding principal of Oak Grove Preparatory Academy, an innovative seventh- through 12th-grade campus opening for the 2026-27 school year. Known for pushing boundaries and continuously seeking ways to improve instruction and student outcomes, Cabrales brings creativity, clarity and a student-centered approach to her leadership. She builds strong, authentic relationships with students and staff, fostering a shared sense of purpose and belonging that drives success.

Excellence in Education/Student Alumni: Monica Stockhausen

• Monica Stockhausen is giving back to the community that raised her by investing in students and encouraging them to believe in themselves. Since joining Chaffey College as an adjunct professor in 2015, she has mentored over 3,000 students, teaching entrepreneurial thinking to support engagement, persistence and retention. Stockhausen focuses on supporting underserved and first-generation college students, building meaningful relationships and serving as a trusted mentor beyond the classroom.

Distinguished Service Award: Chyrl Russell

• A credentialed educator for more than 50 years, Chyrl Russell has brought melody, rhythm and joy to hundreds of students. Committed to music education, she shares resources, offers lessons, fundraises for instruments and even orchestrated nearly $500,000 in donations for schools throughout Rim of the World Unified School District. Seeing a greater need for music education in the district, Russell stepped in, teaching multiple classes daily and recruiting fellow educators to expand programs. Through her work with the Arrowhead Arts Association, she has introduced orchestra, string programs, youth symphonies and live performances, creating a legacy that continues to resonate across the district.