ProudToBeLBUSD Podcast

#177 MemorialCare Partnership

Christina Cendejas, Volunteer Services Manager at MemorialCare, and Alison McCloskey, Epilepsy and Neurodiagnostic Services Program Manager and LBUSD Program Facilitator, discuss the partnership between MemorialCare and the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD). The partnership centers on a specialized Healthcare Pathway Simulation Program that offers high school students hands-on training and mentorship, providing unique, hospital-based experiences.

#176 Careers In Communications

Kevin Lee, Chief of Communications for the City of Long Beach, discusses his educational journey that has culminated in his current position. He also elaborates on the communications field as a career choice and the flexibility a degree offers to individuals pursuing that path.

#175 Rebecca DeLuna, Super Bowl Experience

Rebecca DeLuna is a music teacher at Hoover Middle School. She is also a violist with Mariachi Divas. DeLuna joined an elite group of musicians performing alongside global artist Bad Bunny at the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show, bringing her artistry to one of the world's most-watched events. But back at Hoover, the moment quickly became something more meaningful: a source of pride, connection, and inspiration for her students.

#174 Best Buddies

Haley, a senior at Wilson High School, talks about the Best Buddies program. Best Buddies is a program designed to foster one-to-one friendships between individuals with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Best Buddies friendship program helps break through social barriers at an important time in a young person’s life.

#173 Careers Taking Flight

Lindsey Phillips-Flores, acting Public Information Officer for the Long Beach Airport, discusses Careers Taking Flight. This weeklong externship, conducted in partnership with the Long Beach Unified School District, is offered by Long Beach Airport and provides a 40-hour immersive experience. Students enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, career panels, and interactive sessions with airport tenants, aviation companies, federal agencies, and airline partners.5