Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD) recently celebrated three long-time educators: Peterson Elementary Teachers Joy Forgiarini, Socorro Alvarez, and Katie Brown, for 20 years of innovative teaching with ST Math, a program that helps students learn by thinking, exploring, and solving problems in creative ways.

The celebration, hosted by Melissa Sullivan, Education Success Manager with MIND Education, featured a special visit from JiJi, the beloved ST Math penguin mascot. Students’ excitement was palpable as they welcomed JiJi to campus, cheering, waving, and enjoying a meet and greet with the popular character. They also completed JiJi-themed activity sheets and took home fun ST Math swag to commemorate the occasion.

Former Perry Elementary School Principal Elaine Keeley was also recognized for her early leadership in bringing ST Math to the district. Keeley, who later worked with MIND Education and remains an active grandparent in HBCSD, shared how she witnessed the program’s positive impact on both her students and her own children.

The event was a joyful celebration of a long-standing partnership between HBCSD and MIND Education. It honored two decades of dedication, innovation, and the educators who continue to inspire a love of math in generations of students.