For forty years, the San Mateo County School Boards Association has annually recognized school districts with its annual J. Russell Kent Award. This award program is named after past San Mateo County Superintendent of Schools, J. Russell Kent.

The San Mateo County School Boards Association (SMCSBA) recognizes that the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged every educator, school community and district to think creatively to support the academic, social-emotional and physical needs of students. The San Mateo County School Board Association's (SMCSBA) is pleased to present the 2021 Kent Awards to San Mateo County School Districts, the San Mateo Community College District and the San Mateo County Office of Education.