Kristen (Retzer) Lucena - Class of 1986

Kristen (Retzer) Lucena graduated in 1986 after an active high school career that included participation on the PV Ski Team, writing for PV’s student newspaper, the Saga and student government holding the office of Student Body President her senior year. Kristen attended USC graduating in 1990 with a double major in English and History and obtained her JD in 1993 from Santa Clara University School of Law. Kristen returned to Chico in 1993, beginning her legal career as a prosecutor for the Butte County District Attorney’s office. In 2006 Kristen was both elected and appointed Butte County Superior Court Judge. Kristen and her husband, Chico native Matt Lucena, have two children.

FAQs

Are Foundation Board of Director meetings open to the public?

Yes! We meet the thirdTuesday of every month in Golden Valley Bank’s conference room at 190 Cohasset Road, Suite 170, Chico. Meetings are from 5-6:30pm. Any change to the meeting time will be listed on our website. Visitors are always welcome.

How does the Foundation allocate funds?

The Foundation allocates funds according to the wishes of the donors. For instance, you may designate a specific program or activity with your donation, or you may make a donation in honor or memory of a loved one or teacher. Both General Funds and Honor/Memory funds ultimately go toward grant opportunities for teachers to develop enrichment programs and provide additional instructional materials. These are projects that benefit all the students and truly develop the environment for a positive high school experience.

Who benefits from PVHS Foundation Funding?

Students! Grants provided by the Foundation enhance the growth and development of all of our students. These classroom-based grants are provided to teachers for educational activities that directly engage students both inside and outside the classroom setting. Your donation provides money for such things as field trips, classroom materials, sports equipment and site improvements. All of these add to each students learning environment and experience.

What is the relationship between the PVHS Foundation and Pleasant Valley High School/Chico Unified School District?

The Foundation is a separately incorporated, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization governed by a Board of Directors comprised of alumni, parents, former PV staff, a current Assistant Principal, and community leaders. The Assistant Principal is a non-voting ex officio member of the Board. They serve as an important link to staff and student leadership and keep the Foundation accountable to serving priority needs of the school. The Foundation works with Chico Unified School District as a partner in pursuing the shared mission of equity and excellence at Pleasant Valley High School.

Who administers the Foundation?

The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of alumni, parents, former PVHS staff, a current vice-principal, and community members. The Board of Directors seeks funds and sets policy according to its bylaws.

The PVHS Foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization. It raises funds and allocates resources to Pleasant Valley staff and students, enriching programs both academic or vocational and extracurricular.

Why are donations needed?

In general, California schools need more resources. The limit on property taxes enacted by Proposition 13 in 1978 severely decreased overall school funding. When we account for cost of living, California ranks 45th* in per-pupil funding. In order to continue to provide a well-rounded educational environment at Pleasant Valley High School, additional sources of funding to support student enrichment programs, extra-curricular activities as well as capital equipment and improvements must be raised privately through donations.