More Than 100 Underserved Youth Become Published Authors in ‘Beyond the Books’ Showcase in San Bernardino

More than 100 students from San Bernardino County Community Schools became published authors on May 5 during “Beyond the Books,” a youth storytelling showcase held at the Dorothy Ingham Learning Center.

Presented in partnership by the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) and human development non-profit IMPACTtruth, the event spotlighted student-authored stories centered on values like courage, empathy, and resilience. All participants are now officially published through the Literature to Life program, which helps young people transform lived experiences into original literary works.

Students represented eight County Community Schools—institutions that serve underserved youth facing significant personal, academic, or socio-emotional challenges. Through the Literature to Life program, they engaged in guided storytelling rooted in personal transformation and character development.

The showcase featured remarks from County Superintendent Ted Alejandre, Assistant Superintendent Myrlene Pierre, and Dr. Scott Wyatt, Area Director of Student Services for SBCSS. Each underscored the importance of elevating student voices and creating pathways for youth to see their lived experiences as sources of strength.

Also speaking was Roy Juarez, Jr., founder and CEO of IMPACTtruth and an award-winning author whose personal journey from homelessness to entrepreneurship has inspired youth nationwide. Juarez praised the students for turning challenges into narratives of growth and resilience.

San Bernardino County—the largest geographic county in the United States—serves more than 400,000 K–12 students. Through events like this, SBCSS continues its commitment to educational equity, innovation, and celebrating the stories that shape student success.