In this news:
Carmel Valley’s Wei Chen, a dedicated Solana Beach School District volunteer, has been named the San Diego County School Boards Association Parent Volunteer of the Year for 2025.
According to a district press release, Chen has been a positive presence in the district for over a decade, giving his time to support students, staff and families. The Solana Pacific School parent is currently serving a two-year term as the Solana Beach Schools Foundation vice president of site development, providing guidance to over two dozen volunteers and helping lead fundraising efforts that sustain the district’s Discovery Lab enrichment classes. Beyond fundraising efforts, Chen can frequently be found behind a camera capturing special moments as a volunteer photographer.
“Wei embodies the true spirit of volunteerism,” said Valerie Charat, executive director of Solana Beach Schools Foundation in the news release. “His countless hours of assistance have strongly contributed to our ability to help fund engaging educational experiences for SBSD students, and all this generous assistance is done with kindness, humor, and civic collaboration.”
In addition to mentoring students in the Solana Pacific Yearbook Club and using his technology expertise to help the foundation run more efficiently, Chen is also a volunteer in the Scouting America organization, supporting both Troop 782 and Cub Scouts Pack 734.
“Wei’s contributions, collaborative efforts and leadership continue to make a lasting impact on all SBSD schools,” said SBSD Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Burks in the news release. “He doesn’t just support our schools—his efforts make a difference in the lives of students and staff districtwide. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions and excited to celebrate this well-deserved honor.”
Chen said he believes the honor reflects not just himself but the greater community and the value placed on backing local schools and kids: “I am inspired by the many volunteers I work with.”
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