Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026

Hollister High School’s Academy of Health Science has earned Linked Learning Silver Certification, recognizing the pathway’s commitment to providing students with a high-quality college and career learning experience. The Linked Learning Alliance praised the Academy for putting key program elements in place and for its dedication to continuous improvement. Silver certification is valid for two years and represents an important step toward providing increasingly rigorous, engaging and supportive experiences that prepare students for success in college, career and life.

“We are incredibly proud of our Academy of Health Science for earning our first Linked Learning Silver certification!” said San Benito High School District Assistant Superintendent for Academics and Instructional Programs Elaine Galdos. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our teachers and support staff and the Academy’s growth into a premier educational program in California. What’s most exciting is that our students can connect what they’re learning to future careers and see new possibilities for college and beyond.”

College and Career Readiness Director Claire Grissom said earning the certification in just the Academy’s third year reflects the intentional work of teachers, staff, industry partners and postsecondary partners.

“Our vision has always been rooted in Career AND College Readiness,” Grissom said. “This recognition validates the foundation we are building together and inspires us to continue expanding opportunities for all students.”

We celebrate and honor Mary Andrade for an incredible 22 years of dedicated service as Hollister High School's Career Center Specialist. Our HR Department shared the following tribute to Mrs. Andrade, who is a Baler alumna: "Throughout your years with the District, you have made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless students. Your guidance, encouragement, and willingness to support students as they explore their goals and future opportunities have been an important part of their journey. The time and care you have given to each student will be remembered and appreciated. You have also been a valued colleague and friend to those you have worked alongside. The relationships you have built with students, coworkers, and others throughout the District are a special part of the legacy you leave behind. As you begin this new chapter of retirement, we hope you have the opportunity to slow down, enjoy more time with family and friends, and make wonderful new memories. Thank you, Mary, for 22 years of dedication, compassion, and service. Your presence will be missed, and the positive impact you have made on so many students will not be forgotten!"

Congratulations to this week's Baler Athletes of the Week: Varsity Girls Tennis player Vanessa Diep and Varsity Flag Football player Mia Martinez. Here is what their coaches shared about these student-athletes:

Coach Ed Cecena said, "I would like to recognize Vanessa Diep for athlete of the week. Vanessa is a senior captain, and has been a dedicated participant in our program. Vanessa has been a great leader and role model and has been instrumental in helping us coaches with a large roster. We are looking forward to having a great season with the help of Vanessa’s competitiveness and leadership."

Mia Martinez was selected as the Senior Athlete of the Week "because of the leadership, commitment, and positive energy she brings to our program. Mia leads by example, works hard every day, and is always willing to encourage and support her teammates. As a senior, she understands the importance of setting the standard for our younger players and helping build the culture we want for Hollister Girls Flag Football. We’re proud of the way Mia represents our team both on and off the field."

The San Benito High School District Board of Trustees will fill its Trustee Area 2 seat by appointment following the close of the November 2026 election filing period. The term of the current Trustee Area 2 representative, Miguel Sahagun Jr., expires December 15, 2026. The seat was scheduled to appear on the November 2026 ballot; however, because no candidates filed for the election, the Board will appoint a community member to serve in the position. The San Benito High School District is now accepting applications from qualified residents of Trustee Area 2 who are interested in serving on the Board of Trustees.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old;
• Be a United States citizen;
• Be a resident of the San Benito High School District;
• Be a resident of Trustee Area 2; and
• Be a registered voter.

Application Deadline

Completed Application and Applicant Qualification Forms must be received by the District no later than noon on Friday, October 16, 2026.

Applications may be submitted:

In person:

• San Benito High School District Office, 1220 Monterey Street, Room 130
• Hollister, CA 95023
• Applications are accepted from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

By email:

ezendejas@sbhsd.k12.ca.us

Applicants submitting materials by email are responsible for confirming that the District has received their application. Applications received after the noon deadline on October 16 will not be accepted.

Selection Process

The Board anticipates meeting in an open session public meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, to review applications and interview applicants. Applicants should make themselves available to participate in the meeting. Following the interviews and discussion, the Board may appoint one of the applicants by majority vote. The appointed trustee will take office at the December 15, 2026 Board meeting and will serve until the next regularly scheduled election for District Board members in November 2028. The appointed trustee may seek election at that time.

Application Materials

The application, Applicant Qualification Form, Trustee Area map and additional information regarding the appointment process are available on the San Benito High School District website:

https://www.sanbenitohsd.gov/about/board-of-trustees



Application materials are also available at the District Office.

Questions regarding the appointment process may be directed to Superintendent Dr. Shawn Tennenbaum at stennenbaum@sbhsd.k12.ca.us or (831) 637-5831, ext. 1132. Questions may also be directed to Board Clerk Trustee Patty Nehme at pnehme@sbhsd.k12.ca.us.

The San Benito High School District encourages qualified Trustee Area 2 residents who are interested in serving students, families and the broader community to consider applying for this opportunity to serve on the Board of Trustees.

The Nash Road gates near Hollister High School will be closed between 1 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 10 and between 7 a.m. and noon on Sunday, October 11. On these dates, we'll be hosting the South Coast FFA Region Chapter Officer Leadership Conference on campus. The school expects to have more than 500 students and adults on campus for the weekend. The closure will help ensure student, guest, and community safety. Thank you for your understanding.

Congratulations to the 13 Advanced Photography class students for earning recognition at the recent San Benito County Fair. Mr. Lovejoy said he is proud of these students and all of the others who entered their creative work

Signing up the for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) can provide important benefits for students, families and the school. Completing the application takes just minutes and not only helps provide free and nutritious meals to all students, but it can qualify students for testing discounts and fee waivers, college application fee waivers, and more!

Hollister High School and the San Benito High School District have a variety of classified job opportunities available, including full-time and part-time positions with an excellent health benefits package.

Current openings include Food Service Assistant – Nutrition Services, Groundsworker/Custodian, Special Education Instructional Aide, and Transport Driver.

Ready to join the Baler team? Visit www.edjoin.org for more information and to apply.

Our Community. Our Future. Striving For Excellence.

Stay in touch with all things Hollister High and San Benito High School District by following our various social media accounts. You can find photos, videos, flyers, news and announcements about our students, staff, sports, activities and programs on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube. We're also on LinkedIn as "San Benito High School District."