Bill Buckley (center) and South Pasadena Unified School District representatives (Photo – SPUSD)
South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) announced that Bill Buckley as the recipient of the Association of California School Administrators’ Golden Apple Award for Volunteerism.
By News Desk
On April 16, 2025, Superintendent Yantz recognized Buckley for his remarkable contributions to SPUSD across all grade levels—elementary, middle, and high school—over the past 17 years.
Throughout his extensive volunteer service, Buckley has taken on a variety of roles, including six years as the Arroyo Vista PTA Coordinator of School Assemblies and five years as the beloved “Golden Shoe Guy” for the school’s annual Jog-a-Thon.
As a key member of the South Pasadena Middle School (SPMS) Booster Board, Buckley played a pivotal role in creating and organizing the annual SPMS Poker Tournament, an event that has raised more than $100,000 since its inception 10 years ago. When his three daughters transitioned to high school, Buckley continued his commitment by serving on the SPHS Booster Board for eight years. There, he primarily managed the Tiger Run, which is the second-largest fundraiser for the high school, following Tiger Bingo. Buckley even kept the event alive during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic by pivoting to a virtual format in 2020.
In addition to his work with fundraisers, Buckley has volunteered countless hours chaperoning field trips, supporting school fun fairs, assisting with summer school registration, and even serving as the Girl Scout Camping Dad for his daughters. His dedication to the district is exemplified by a memorable moment when he transported 1,000 pounds of dirt in his Jeep to help establish the original Middle School Garden—all with his trademark positive attitude and a smile on his face.
Bill Buckley’s unwavering commitment to supporting students, teachers, and staff has made a lasting impact on the South Pasadena community. His tireless efforts are a testament to the spirit of volunteerism, and we are deeply grateful for everything he has done for our schools.
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