Santa Clarita Mayor Pro Tem Patsy Ayala is being recognized for her years of dedication to local students and families after receiving a “One Hart” award from the William S. Hart Union High School District.

Ayala said the honor of the “One Hart” award was especially meaningful, reflecting more than a decade of involvement in education and community support across the Santa Clarita Valley.

“I feel very honored. It really touched my heart,” Ayala said.

Before joining the Santa Clarita City Council, Ayala spent years working with the state Assembly and Senate while also staying actively involved in local schools, volunteering in classrooms and supporting student programs. She said her motivation has always centered on helping young people succeed.

“If I can help one or many more students to transform their lives… that really is the goal for me,” she said.

Her connection to the district is also personal. As a mother of two students who attended schools in the Hart School District, Ayala said she naturally became involved, first as a classroom volunteer and later through PTA and broader school support efforts.

“I was that type of mom that it was like the volunteer mom, the room mom, then the PTA mom,” she said.

That experience, she said, opened her eyes to the needs of other students, including those without strong support systems at home. She made it a priority to help guide not just her own children, but others in the community as well.

Ayala said that passion continues today through her work with the city, including programs focused on youth safety and awareness. She pointed to efforts addressing issues such as drug use, cyberbullying and online safety, as well as initiatives that encourage healthy lifestyles and strong decision-making among teens.

“I think those are things that are not academic, but are very important… to create a positive environment for them,” she said.

The award was presented by Hart District Superintendent Dr. Aakash Ahuja, whom Ayala praised for his leadership and commitment to students.

“This is very special coming from Aakash… he has the heart in the community, he has the heart in the education,” she said.

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