Joshua Spiegel – Corona-Norco Unified School District

On Monday, March 1, 2021, the Corona-Norco Unified School District returned to in-person classes for K-6 grade students at their 33 elementary schools. This district is where my dad, uncles, siblings, and I attended school and the district of our Rising Star FAME Award winner, Megan Cook. Working with this district during my time at Basic American Foods, I have built a strong working relationship with the Nutrition Services department. By being active in my community with cancer walks, the Special Olympics, and various community groups, I have also built a personal friendship with Megan Cook and many people throughout the Corona-Norco district.

In celebration of the first day of in-person classes, I was asked by one of our school board members, Mary Ybarra and Sandra Verdugo, principal at Parkridge Elementary School, to dress as the school mascot to welcome students back.  From my work in the community and with non-profit organizations, I hold this school near and dear as it has many students with learning and physical disabilities. The students were so happy to see their friends, teachers, and T the Tiger! It was such an honor to do this and see all the kids’ smiles, as I remember the excitement I had to return to school and see my friends when I was younger.

Joshua Spiegel
Segment Account Manager—Southwest