United in Resilience: Poly Remembers the Eaton and Pacific Palisades Fires

January 7, 2026 marked one year since the Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires forever changed Southern California. For many members of the Poly community, the impact of those events remains deeply felt. Homes, health, livelihoods, and routines were disrupted; and for many, the sense of loss continues to echo. The anniversary invited reflection on the extraordinary care and compassion that emerged in the fires’ aftermath.

Last Wednesday morning, Poly’s K–12 students, faculty, staff, and administrators gathered together on Babcock Field for remarks from Head of School John Bracker and a moment of silent reflection. Seniors Anastasia A. ’26 and Madeleine D. ’26 sang a moving rendition of “Lean on Me,” reminding all present of the strength that comes from standing together.

“Great communities aren’t measured by how much you have; they are defined by generosity that goes beyond material things, moments of kindness, grace, and concern,” said John in his address to the school. “Those acts sustain us.”

The remembrance also allowed time to reflect on what emerged in the fire’s aftermath. Poly’s gym was transformed into a donation center filled with essential supplies for anyone affected by the fires. Families displaced from their homes were met with offers of help that ranged from home-cooked meals and childcare to temporary lodging and transportation. More than 775 donors contributed nearly $1.2 million to the Poly Relief Fund, providing vital support to current community members affected by the disaster as they worked to regain stability. 

Following the morning event, a commemorative plaque was dedicated to those impacted by the fires and those who stepped forward to help. Pasadena Councilmember Jason Lyon P ’23, ’32; newly elected Altadena Town Council member Anton Anderson ’85 P ’34, ’38; K–12 Parent Organization (PO) Chair Laura Unanue P ’20, ’23, ’25, ’32; and John Bracker gathered for the dedication. Poly's K-12 divisional Parent Organization leaders were instrumental in organizing relief efforts in partnership with the school just days after the fires began.

The ceremony also marked the planting of a young oak tree that will eventually shade the plaque on Arden Lawn. “It is so fitting that Poly chose to commemorate the Eaton Fire by planting a native oak tree, the ‘ember catcher’ that helped protect many properties during the fire,” Jason Lyon said. “The oak tree will stand as a beautiful symbol of our community’s strength and resilience for years to come.” The plaque sits below this young tree in its new home on Poly’s south campus.

Anton Anderson, a lifelong Altadena resident and Poly alum, reflected on the example Poly sets for its students and families. “Poly has always taught people to be leaders,” he said. “We ask our students to prepare for a life of purpose and to be part of a community. As parents, we’re told to model for our children what we want them to be. I’m modeling for my children that in a space of crisis, we should not be bystanders, but upstanders.”

Reflecting on the year since the fires, we are reminded of the acts of kindness, compassion, generosity, and resilience amid deep sorrow. Moving forward, Poly will continue to support our students, families, faculty, and staff affected by the fires. This day of remembrance embodies Poly's commitment to a thriving community.