San Bernardino County's educational landscape is buzzing with excitement as 2025 kicks off with remarkable achievements and initiatives. At the forefront is Redlands High School's Team Blue, crowned the county's mock trial champions after a fierce competition involving over 20 high schools. Students dedicated countless hours to mastering legal research and crafting persuasive arguments for the case of People versus Goldwood. Their hard work paid off, impressing a panel of legal experts with their performances. One participant reflected on the experience, highlighting the growth in teamwork skills and the thrill of stepping out of comfort zones.

In addition to the mock trial success, 14 students showcased their talents in the 2025 Poetry Out Loud Competition, a program supported by the National Endowment for the Arts and the California Arts Council. This initiative not only enhances public speaking skills but also deepens students' appreciation for literary history. The county winner will advance to the state finals in Sacramento, marking another significant milestone for local talent.

Moreover, the 11th annual San Bernardino County student advisory panel has launched, uniting high school students from various regions to advocate for community change. This program empowers students to engage in civic matters, focusing on issues like behavioral health and violence prevention. Their efforts culminate in presentations to elected officials, aiming to spark real change in their communities.

As the San Bernardino County Office of Education celebrates these accomplishments, the commitment to fostering inspiring, innovative, and creative work among students remains strong. The year ahead promises even more milestones as the community rallies around its young leaders.