Press Release
Contact: Ronald Gonzales-Lawrence
Date: October 22, 2026
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (909) 397-4800 ext. 23885
Date: October 22, 2026
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (909) 397-4800 ext. 23885
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA – Pomona Unified School District (PUSD) proudly announces that Alan Pantanini, Director of Expanded Learning Programs, has been honored with the 2026 California Expanded Learning Innovative Leadership Award for Region 11 (Los Angeles County). The recognition was presented during the statewide Lights On Afterschool celebration on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, in Sacramento.
The award recognizes Pantanini's leadership in transforming expanded learning opportunities for students and families throughout Pomona Unified. Through his work, the District has expanded access to high-quality afterschool, enrichment, and extended learning programs that support academic achievement, student development, and working families.
"Alan's leadership reflects the very best of Pomona Unified and our commitment to providing every student with opportunities to succeed," said Dr. Lisa Nashua, President of the Pomona Unified Board of Education. "His dedication to our students and families has helped create a program that extends learning beyond the classroom and ensures more children have access to meaningful educational experiences."
A Pomona Unified educator since 1996, Pantanini began his career as an elementary school teacher before serving as a Teacher on Assignment, Assistant Principal, and Principal. After nearly two decades as an elementary school principal, he became the District's Director of Expanded Learning Programs in 2023.
Under his leadership, and with the support of Superintendent Darren Knowles and District leadership, Pomona Unified transformed 17 separate afterschool programs into a comprehensive districtwide system through its Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) and The Learning Connection (TLC). In just two years, participation increased by approximately 60 percent, from 2,141 to 3,430 students. Today, these programs provide academic support, enrichment, and extended learning opportunities to students and families at elementary and middle schools throughout the District.
"Alan has taken our vision for expanded learning and turned it into something truly meaningful for thousands of students and families," said Pomona Unified Superintendent Darren Knowles. "Because of his work, we have expanded opportunities across the District, ensuring that more students have access to academic support, enrichment, and experiences that inspire them to learn and grow. This recognition is well deserved and reflects not only Alan's dedication, but the incredible work of the entire TLC team."
Together, ELOP and TLC combine academic support with engaging enrichment experiences, including tutoring, robotics, music, sports, and other activities that help students discover new interests and develop important skills. Working with 17 community partners, the programs help provide a comprehensive nine-hour educational day that combines classroom instruction with expanded learning opportunities, while offering additional programming during school breaks and summer.
"What makes Alan's work so meaningful is that he understands expanded learning is about more than keeping students engaged after school," said Dr. Roberta Perlman, Vice President of the Pomona Unified Board of Education. "It is about giving children opportunities to explore their interests, build confidence, and discover talents they may never have known they had."
Pantanini credits the success of these programs to the collaborative efforts of District leadership, school staff, and community partners who have worked together to strengthen and expand learning opportunities for students.
"This recognition belongs to everyone who helped turn 17 separate programs into one system," said Pantanini. "Expanded learning should be a core educational service with the same planning, quality standards, and accountability as the school day. Most of all, it reminds me that every family now has the same opportunity, and that matters more to me than any award."
The District's Expanded Learning Opportunities Program and The Learning Connection have become important parts of its broader commitment to student success, providing additional academic support while helping families access safe, engaging, and enriching educational experiences beyond traditional classroom hours.
"Alan has demonstrated what is possible when we approach expanded learning as an essential part of a student's educational experience," said Lilia Fuentes, Deputy Superintendent of Educational Services. "Through thoughtful planning, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement, he has helped build a sustainable program that supports student learning while responding to the needs of our families."
For Pantanini, the recognition represents nearly three decades of dedication to the students and families of Pomona Unified and a belief that learning should be both meaningful and enjoyable.
"Every student deserves a day full of opportunities to learn, create, and discover who they are, no matter where they live or what their family can provide," Pantanini said.
To learn more about Pomona Unified's Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) and The Learning Connection (TLC), visit tlc.pusd.org and the District's ELOP webpage.