Dr. Charil Dignadice Macaraeg

Charil Dignadice Macaraeg was born on August 11, 1977, to Charemon Vinluan Dignadice and Aril Gatmaitan Dignadice. As the eldest of two children in an Air Force family, Charil experienced a life full of travel and adventure, yet her heart always remained tied to her dream school, UC Berkeley.

It was at Berkeley, in 1997, that Charil met her soulmate, James Macaraeg, through a youth mentoring program where she was the Coordinator and he was an intern. Their connection blossomed into a deep and enduring love, culminating in their marriage in 2002.

Charil and James were blessed with four incredible sons: Xavier, Vincent, Dominic, and Gabriel. Charil was the kind of person who poured herself into everything she did. As a mother, Charil was deeply involved in her sons’ lives, nurturing their interests, and supporting their dreams. Whether it was attending school events, cheering from the sidelines at sports games, or guiding them through life’s challenges, Charil’s love and dedication to her sons were unwavering. Even when sick or pregnant, she never missed a chance to coach her sons’ basketball teams. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and love, where her sons always felt cherished and supported.

Charil’s passion for education ignited in 1999 when she began her career as an elementary school teacher in Richmond. Her dedication to learning and helping others led her to earn a Master’s degree in Social Work, followed by a doctorate from the University of Southern California. Charil and James committed over eighteen years together to the Val Verde Unified School District (VVUSD). Charil’s journey in VVUSD saw her flourish from a teacher at Student Success Academy to an Assistant Principal at Val Verde Academy and Citrus Hill High School. In 2015, she embraced the role of Principal at Rancho Verde High School, proudly serving for six years. In 2022, she became the Director of College and Career Readiness in the Hemet Unified School District, where her role allowed her to support several schools simultaneously, a testament to her leadership and vision.

In another life, Charil’s dream job would have been to plan extravagant parties. Charil was in her element when focused on the smallest of party details. Whether it was a Jedi-themed party where she created lightsabers by hand, or she was orchestrating crafts for everyone to enjoy, Charil made sure every event was memorable. Most recently, Charil led the family troops in the charge to blow up and ensure every one of the hundreds of balloons was perfect for Xavier’s graduation party.

Charil’s laugh was unique and recognizable, infectious and joyful. Her laughter could fill a room and lift spirits instantly. Friends and family fondly recall how hearing Charil’s laugh from across a room would instantly bring a smile to their faces. It was a sound that conveyed pure happiness and could make even the hardest days brighter. When Charil laughed, it was impossible not to feel happy and join in.

Even during her courageous battle with cholangiocarcinoma, Charil continued to mentor and support others facing similar challenges, showcasing her unwavering strength and empathy. Her ability to remain positive and supportive, even in the face of adversity, was a testament to her remarkable character.

Charil was a dedicated advocate for children, ensuring that every student had equal access to opportunities and resources. She fought tirelessly for her students as if they were her own, embodying a true educator’s spirit. Charil was also committed to developing future leaders, always encouraging those around her to step into their potential and lead with confidence.

Charil was a pioneer who established the very first Wellness Center in the school district to support students academically and emotionally, creating a space dedicated to students’ well-being. Rancho Verde High School has named their Wellness Center the “Dr. Charil Macaraeg Wellness Center,” in honor of her legacy.

On June 1, 2024, Charil entered eternal rest. She is survived by her devoted husband, James Macaraeg, and her beloved sons: Xavier, Vincent, Dominic, and Gabriel Macaraeg. She also leaves behind her loving mother, Charemon Dignadice, her brother and sister-in-law, Leoden and Jessica Dignadice, her cherished grandmother, Dionisia Dignadice, her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dustin and Christina Macaraeg, her mother and father-in-law, Arlene and John Collins, as well as a large extended family and many friends who will forever hold her memory dear.

Charil joins her father, Aril Dignadice, her Lolo Aniceto Dignadice, Lola Leonor Vinluan, Lolo Leonardo Vinluan, and her father-in-law, Butch Macaraeg, in heaven.

Charil was an angel on earth, touching countless lives with her kindness and dedication, and she now rests in heaven, watching over us with her ever-present love and grace.