Beyond Academics: Connecting Classroom & Community
From Values to Vision: Transforming Family Engagement in Fontana Unified School District
Dec 17, 2025
Joanna Marrufo
Michael Garcia, Chief Communication and Community Engagement Officer for Fontana Unified School District, shares how he strengthens partnerships with students and families by prioritizing trust and authentic connection. He reflects on how his journey in education is deeply rooted in his family’s values of servant leadership—a foundation that guides his approach today.
Michael highlights Fontana Unified’s collaborative leadership practices and explains how cross‑sector partnerships are helping expand access to housing support, digital literacy resources, and mental health services. Through this work, he is elevating parent engagement and ensuring families have the tools they need to thrive.