From Values to Vision: Transforming Family Engagement in Fontana Unified School District 

Beyond Academics: Connecting Classroom & Community

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. 


Episode Artwork From Values to Vision: Transforming Family Engagement in Fontana Unified School District  41:04 Episode Artwork Innovative Partnership and Practices in Riverside County with Dr. Amanda Wade 25:42 Episode Artwork Community, Creativity & Connection in Inyo County: A Conversation with Serena Johnson 28:13 Episode Artwork Re-thinking School Community Engagement with Melissa Estrada from Hesperia High School 28:31 Episode Artwork Putting the Heart in Heart Work: Victor Gutierrez Val Verde USD 20:57 Episode Artwork Equity-Centered Approaches in Parent Engagement with Arnie Ayala 42:26 Episode Artwork Cultivating and Nurturing Young Minds: Heather Smith and Nancy Sherod 36:54 Episode Artwork Carla Hernandez: Golden Valley Middle School Teacher, SBCSS Teacher of the Year 23:30 Episode Artwork Introduction to Community Schools with Dr. Eboni Kemp SBCSS Community Schools Manager 21:49 Episode Artwork Beyond Academics: Connecting Classroom & Community Trailer 2:11