001Smith, a good pit? Where is it? I love their pens. Recording in progress. Welcome! Welcome, welcome! This is the Solana County Board of Education Special Meeting. This is Solano County Superintendent appointment meeting. Wednesday, July 23rd. It is 4 o'clock in the afternoon. We're gonna open this. With the Pledge of Allegiance, and… must be done. You stand? I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States. Individual, with liberty and justice. Can we get a roll call, please? Trustee Coleman? Here. Trustee Sharp? Cheek? Here. Trustee Cohen-Thompson? Trustee Dean? Here. Trustee Dunn? Here. Trustee Lavelle? Here. Thank you. When we get approval and adoption? So moved. Second. Moved by Trustee Dean, seconded by Trustee Sharp. Get a roll call, please? Fasty cheek? Yes. Trustee Colin-Thompson? Yes. Trustee Dean? Yes. Trustee Dunn? Yes. Trustee Lavelle? Yes. Christy Sharp?
002Yes. Trustee Coleman. Yes. Okay, this is the consideration and appointment of Solano County Superintendent of Schools, the pending retirement of Lisette Australia Henderson, effective September 1st, 2025. Will create a vacancy and position of Solano County Superintendent of Schools. At the April 9, 2025 regular board meeting. The board appointed an ad hoc committee to develop a process and make recommendations to the board regarding filling this vacancy. At the June 2025… 25… 2025 regular meeting of the Board. The board reviewed the ad hoc committee recommendations and approved the following applicants. To move forward for consideration for the appointment, including participation in the presentation and interview process. Those applicants are Brian Dolan, Manolo Garcia. So at Kemp, Nicola, Parr, and. Micah Studer. There was also, uh… There's a binder and a… additional, uh… information that was included outside
003for the public, also. But now we're gonna open up public comment. An appointment of Solana County Superintendent of Schools. We have, like, 20 cards now, if you haven't. Submitted a card and wanted to submit a card. They're out at the desk. So please make sure… get a card submitted to the Secretary of the Board. We will let you speak. Each speaker will have 2 minutes. Uh, after that, we'll go to the candidate presentation and interviews, and then consideration of action and appointment of the. We're gonna start off… But the first 5? That'll be Helen Tilley. Tranika Ross? Anna Vanderhoof? Edison Kelly? And Linda Pitts. The first speaker is Helen Tilley. We'll start the 2 minutes. Make sure that green button, uh, alights for you on the microphone. It is led, thank you, Chair Coleman. Good
004afternoon, Ellen Tilley, speaking as an individual in favor of candidate Nikki's appointment. As Solano County Superintendent. While retiring Superintendent Lisa Esrala Henderson leaves some big shoes to fill. Dr. Parr fits the footprint. Seamlessly. Dr. Parr possesses a deep educational experience. Having served as a teacher. School principal, director. And currently, Senior Director, Student Services, and Educational Options. For the Smolano County Office of Education. I've been privileged to work with Occupar in service to Solano County students. And find her to be deliberative. In decision-making. It creates an environment. Conducive to the transparent. Sharing of diverse viewpoints. That is not swayed by special interests. A lifelong resident and parent of school-aged children in our county. Dr. Parr personifies all that is valued in local education. A deep well of knowledge. Gained from service to our community. Inspires effective
005leadership. Who have worked as a Fairfield Center Student Board of Education trustee. President of the Solano County Child Abuse Prevention Council. Board member of the Opportunity House. Member of the Solana Family Justice Center Steering Committee. And various philanthropic organizations, and. Collaboratives that serve the residents of Solano County. Especially marginalized and underrepresented students. Succession planning is critical to the continuing success of any organization. By selecting Dr. Parr as the Superintendent of the Aslano County Office of Education. You can rest assured that her comprehensive knowledge and current service to the organization make her the perfect choice. Thank you. Thank you, Ms. Tilley. Next up… Anika Ross. Cross? In… Coming up from downstairs? Madam President, could we perhaps move on to the next question? And let her speak later? No. So, next up is Deanna Vanderhoo. Good evening,
006President Coleman. Trustees and Superintendent Australia Henderson. I'm Dena Vanderhoof, a program administrator for special education and site leader at Irene Larson. I have 87 SCO staff that I directly supervise. And there are many more that I support who provide services for our students, but I do not supervise directly. First, let me say that you will truly be missed, Lizette. You have been the type of administrator that we all aspire to be. And you have had such an impact on my life and the way I want to lead. Does a parent, by all the terrific leaders that I am supported by, that you've had a deep and meaningful impact on many of us. One such leader that I wholeheartedly support in his candidacy for Superintendent of Schools. Mr. Manolo Garcia. During his time as our Associate
007Superintendent of Human Resources and Educator Effectiveness. He has demonstrated unwaveringly fairness, integrity, and a deep commitment to uphold the law and district policies. What sets him apart in his ability. To make and stand by thoughtful, real-raising decisions, even when those decisions are difficult and not the most popular. He consistently takes all perspectives into consideration. Ensuring that every action is both legally sound. And aligned with what's best for students and staff. His leadership is steadied. Principled and compassionate. Qualities that would serve our schools, district, and community well. At the superintendent level. Thank you. Next up, Dr. Edison Kelly. Good evening, uh, President Coleman. Trustees, Superintendent Australia. Hey, my name's Addison Kelly. I'm currently Director of Student Services for the LC Divine School District. But I'm not here today in that capacity. Here, as a resident. Community
008member for this county. In the schools in this county, and I'm concerned. Our districts and our counties. With that concern, I'm announcing my endorsement. Of Nicole Lepar. I've known Nikki for about 20 years. The newer bank, which is a banker deal. I watched and matriculate through Solana County. Of education. Worked with her on many different projects. One particular project was a grant. That she brought to my attention. Coach me through, because I'm not good at writing grants. Um, to the point to where we got the grant at the last minute. And because of that grant, we hired. A community president, a community person. Did a follow-up grant. Now operating with a $12 million budget. That's huge for Valil, because we're closing schools. Closing schools, we're laying people off. We've got $12 million right now. We're
009creating jobs. We're creating programs. We now have established 8, um. Community hubs within Vallejo. This type of work that Nicole has done with me. You know, just her passion for our districts is something that we need. But because of that, I want to again announce my endorsement of Nicole. I think she's intelligent. You know, she's competent, and I believe that she… has what it takes to transform. Where it needs to go. Thank you for your time. Thank you, Dr. Kelly. Next up is Linda Pitts. Madam President. Note I'm having trouble, a little trouble hearing the speakers. I'm not sure… If we can turn the volume up… But I've heard Mr. Kelly speak any number of times, and I'm… have not been quite this challenged, so… I don't know if the mic needs to be moved
010closer? Or something, but I think some of the audience members are also having trouble hearing. Let me just give the next 5 that are going to be coming up in order after Ms. Pitt's speech. This'll be Jack Flynn. Tureen Wilkerson. Jay Lloyd? Isla Feeney. Mike Minahan. Go ahead, Ms. Pitts. Thank you. Good afternoon, trustees, Superintendent Estrella Henderson. And community members. My name is Linda Pitts, and I'm proud to stand before you tonight. In support of Dr. Nikki Parr's appointment to the Office of Solano County Superintendent. I've known Dr. Parr since she was 13 years old. And even then, her maturity, focus, and compassion were clearly evident. Over the years, I've watched her grow into a powerful advocate for students, families, and educators across the loop. Solano County. When I was approaching retirement from Oakland Unified
011School District, it was Dr. Parr who encouraged me to. Stay engaged in education and in service. She referred me to a local program that helped me connect more deeply with the Solano community. Following her recommendation, I joined the SCO team as a substitute teacher at the juvenile detention facility. That experience reignited my passion. And ultimately led me to Golden Hills. Where I've had the privilege of seeing up close. Positive outcomes of Dr. Parr's leadership. Dr. Parr's 25-plus years of experience as a teacher, principal, director, and now senior director of student services and educational options. Speak for themselves. But beyond the titles and the accomplishments, what stands out most is her unwavering commitment to supporting all students. Especially those who need additional care and advocacy. To reach their potential. She has led with vision and heart.
012Championing access to social-emotional, mental health, and wellness supports while never forgetting the well-being of teachers and staff who do the work each day. Our leadership on the Solano. Um, her leadership on the Solano County Child Abuse Prevention Council, Opportunity House, and others. Community, uh, organizations reflects her broader dedication to justice and equity. Beyond the classroom. Dr. Parr is not only prepared for this role, she was prepared for it. Your time is up. Thank you very much. Next up, Jack Flynn. Trustee Fairfield Sassoon. Thank you. Um, good evening, Jacqueline. Speaking as an individual. I know you have a lot to go through tonight, so I'm going to be brief. I wanted to come here to share my experience working with Dr. Parr as a member of the Fairfield Sassoon Unified School District Governing Board. Well, I
013don't have only worked with Dr. Parr for a few months, I have found her to be quite inquisitive in her questions, smart in her knowledge of supporting our school district. And collaborative for our governance team. Thank you for your time and consideration tonight. Thank you. Thank you, Jack. Next up, Shireen Wilkerson. President Coleman. Trustees… Superintendent Lisette Estrella-Henderson, good afternoon. My name is Shireen Wilkerson. I'm a retired associate superintendent. The Vacaville Unified School District. I served 33 years. I've known Dr. Parr since 2006, when she was hired as an assistant administrator of learning support. When I retired from Vacaville Unified School District. Your current superintendent encouraged me to continue. In supporting education, and I've been a skull. Instructional leadership coach. For the last… And for 13 years. As a co-leadership coach, I've just briefed administrators. That
014have finished their preliminary credential and are working towards their clear credential. I've observed wellness centers. I've observed students going into wellness centers that have been created by the Department of Dr. Parr. They are resetting. Given some time to reset. And go back to class instead of being suspended from school and missing first good instruction. I've observed staff. Not only using classroom behavior, positive behavior instructional supports, but also out on the program. Playground, restorative justice practices by students. I represent today Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. As we are a member of Solano's Faith and Education Collaborative. His mission is to create a seamless network. A mutually beneficial relationships. That connects the faith-based organizations. With educational agencies. Collaborative was started by Dr. Parr and her department. I'm standing here today to say that Dr. Parr is qualified. It's
015her time. I've been mentoring her. I will continue to work and help develop her. But she stands above many candidates, and I highly endorse her. Thank you. Next up, Jay Lloyd. Good afternoon, thank you for having me. Um, I'll come here as an individual as well. I am the ROP instructor for Chevron Richmond Refinery in conjunction with Contra Costa County Office of Education. Please don't hold that against me. But I am also here as a, uh. A staunch endorser for Mr. Manola Garcia. And I know we talk a lot about… education, background, jobs, and careers, but I definitely would like to talk about the humanness of this man. As my daughter, uh, and my nephew. Actually went to Markham Elementary School and was in the immersion program. Now, I must admit to you, as a
016Black family from Detroit, Michigan, I didn't know how that was gonna go for my daughter. But when she got in there, one thing I was assured of by the principal of that school was that she would be well taken care of, and she would get the education that she needs. One of the things that he never lied about was that. At this point now, I've known him nearly 20 years. And my daughter, because of the education that she got at Markham Elementary. Is now getting ready to be a graduate of Cal Maritime Academy, and she plays college basketball for them, and she's got a. She's gonna have a degree in ISS, which is International Strategy and Security. And she will go into the Air Force with that degree as well. A lot of what we
017talk about is Mr. Garcia's leadership. It's humanness, when you saw him. The way that he spoke to you. He wasn't one of those people that spoke through you or over you, he spoke to you. He spoke with you. The humanness of this man was unmatched. The opportunities that he gave kids in that. And that demographic over there? Was… is amazing, from the standpoint of being able to know how to deal with people from. Different backgrounds, different ethnic backgrounds, different economic backgrounds. That was something my wife and I definitely took heart to. We saw how he moved him and his family. And his son also graduated the same year as my daughter. And so we still have a close relationship with them. So I would like to say. That I think that Manolo Garcia and his
018humanness, as well as his accolades, would be the perfect fit. For superintendent. Thank you. Next to the mic, Ilafini. Let me remind everybody, please speak into the mic, because we are projecting downstairs also, and they're having a hard time hearing people along with. Trustees up here, sometimes if you have a really soft voice, be closer to the mic. Thank you. Thanks for that added pressure. Oh, use your teacher voice. I know. It's a grandma voice now. Yeah, I hear ya. Good afternoon, President Coleman, Trustees, Superintendent Australia Henderson. Colleagues and guests. My name is Isla Feeney, I'm a retired program administrator, special day class teacher who served for 37 years with Solano County Office of Ed. And I'm here to speak in support of Manila Garcia. Who is running for superintendent. Approximately 14 years ago, I
019became a school administrator with Solano County Office of Ed. My assignment was to cover. All our Vacaville and Travis programs. At this time, Manila Garcia was the site administrator. And principal at Edwin Markham. Where we had one of our programs. And it was a K-5 classroom. From my first encounter with Mr. Garcia, I knew I had met an amazing person. We work to keep our classroom engaged with school culture and treated them as if. Our students were part of their school, which they were. I treated myself and the SCO staff, students, and families like any other member of their school community with respect and dignity. And inclusivity. Having our programs included within that school was. Integral in their success. And the families feeling like they belonged. Mr. Garcia is a passionate and caring person. This
020comes through when you talk with him as well as his respect for others. When he joined the SCO team to head up our Human Resources Department, I got to work with him again. Uncertified bargaining. As this was his first year, I got to see his team-building and relationship-building skills. It's a natural in both departments. I feel it, it's his gift to make connections with others. And use those connections to achieve a positive outcome for all. While on a site trip. Before I retired my last year in Vacaville Elementary programs, we were talking about our first encounter together. And I remember telling him. Sorry, your time is up, Ms. Thank you, sorry. Next up, Mike Menahan. After Mike speaks, I'm gonna give you the next 5 that are gonna speak. Ms. Gwendolyn Lawton? J.d. Hatchet? Anna
021Patero? Dean McDougal? And Cheryl McDonald. Thank you, Mike. I will echo what… But he just said, I'm nervous. I was Isla Phoenix. I was Isla. I lost her name on 64. I love Feini. We're here every week, Mike. I was. Every day. Be nervous, Mike. This is different. I'm a fish out of water. Good evening, President Coleman, Trustees, Superintendent Estrella Henderson. And fans. I'm here tonight to speak about, uh. Enolo Garcia, a person that I have come to know as not only a phenomenal colleague, but a great friend. I first became aware of Manolo. When he was the principal at Markham Elementary School. K8 dual immersion School in Vacaville. When I was speaking with it at the time, the assistant superintendent of Human Resources, who told me that, in fact. Manola was the very best
022principal in all of Vacaville Unified. I started to then track him and watch him. And eventually, he became the Director of Human Resources for Vacaville Unified, which is where our paths. Connected once again. As the Solano County Office of Education Associate Superintendent of Human Resources and Educator Effectiveness, one of my roles. Was to host a local labor coalition. So all of the local, um. Hr folks would gather once a month. I became quickly enamored with. Manolo and his questioning. If he didn't understand something, he didn't try to bluff it, he asked the question. I think that's one of his great strengths. Um, the ability to seek knowledge. When he doesn't have it. I became even more… grateful for his partnership in our LLC. As he became the assistant superintendent there, which is why when. I
023announced my retirement, I might have hinted, hinted, elbowed, elbowed, nudged, and nudged him. To apply for the position, because I knew that he had. Similar core values that I had. He's not nearly as funny as I am. But those other core values are his strengths, his ability to collaborate. The way that he puts people. First, he has an amazing way to do that. He's smart, he's wickedly smart, he's got great vision. He takes his time to make sure he understands all of the facts. Before he acts. In my opinion, Manolo Garcia is… is… Yes, he is. Okay. Thank you very much. Thank you. Next up, Gwen Lawton. See you, Ms. Lawton. We told people have to make sure the mic is ready. Good afternoon to all… the Solano County Board members. Um, I'm Gwendolyn Lawson.
024I've been retired quite a while. But I… was in Fairfield Souzoon Unified School District for… 31 years. And two years in Vallejo Unified School District. I am speaking on behalf of Nicole LaPon. Or Nikki, as we call her. I've known her since she was a child. Very outgoing. Too much sometimes. And she, uh… as an educator, I have been so proud of her. She really is considerate of others. She takes the facts. And really reached out to others to help. I'm also involved with her with a lot of the community activities she's involved in. When I was principal in elementary school. She volunteered her time to come. And help students there as well. So she's never left. The area, and she's a product of. Our school district also. So she was at… graduated from Fairfield
025High, so… I endorse her completely. And I hope you endorse her, too. Thank you. Thank you, Ms. Lawton. Next up is J.D. Hatchet. Good afternoon, members of the board. Let me say, Dean Hatchett, Chairman for Solano County Behavioral Health Advisory Board. I'm here as an individual and not representing the board. It's good seeing all of you here today. Some of you may know me from meetings and events here in Salon County, and those who don't, I look forward to connecting with you. Speak a little closer to the mic, please, Mr. Trump. I'm honored to speak on Dr. Nikki Parr's behalf today. But we've had many conversations on wellness centers being available here in Solano County School District, as well as other meaningful conversations on helping out student services. And community partners. It gives me great
026honor and privilege to stand here before you all today. Say so many great things that Dr. Nikki Parr has done. Here at the facilities enjoying Fairfield Tucson Unified School District. Fairfield City Committee Member of the Solano County School Boards Association Committee. More than any other board member. Her expertise as an administrator. This Son Island County Office of Education School is evident in her impactful organizational skills. I don't think management skills. And meeting management. Dr. Nikki Parr will continue to do so. As the new superintendent of Solano County Office of Education. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Hatchet. Next up, Adam Patero? Good evening, Madam President, Madam Superintendent, members of the Board. So wonderful to see. A female-identified board in Solano County needs that, and we can continue to do that. With the appointment of Dr. Nikki
027Park. As I stand here before you as president of the Infants USD School Board. I am also speaking here as an individual. When I've heard all of the comments that have been made about Dr. Parr. The term that comes to mind is community. People have talked about knowing her since she was a child. And she was a teenager. I know her as a 50-year-old adult. I was at her birthday party. What does that tell me? Is that… community starts when you're a child. You grow that community, you're grown in that community. You develop that community, and you maintain that community. Because she has been here her entire life. She knows our community. Many of those that were spoken of her. Are renowned for contemporaries. The Wellness Center that she has grown in our community. Are
028building community. We want to maintain that community. By having a qualified, a classy, a brilliant. Elegant. Most of all… A humble woman who has… is raising. Two beautiful, three beautiful young men. In our community. I said the term community at least 5 times. If you look around Salimo County. In the position of… Superintendent of Solano County, Office of Education. That's all seven districts. Readily brought together. A one very important, very humble. Very classy. Dr. Nikki Park. So, hope that you will get your… all of your wonderful brains together. Look at what we women do in our communities. We develop, we build, we maintain those communities. Dr. Nikki Parr will continue to do that. I encourage you all to… A pointer, thank you. Thank you, Dr. Patero. Next up, Gene McDougall. Good evening. My name is
029Gianne McDigold. Board and board members and community. Today, I stand in support. Of Dr. Nikki Parr, particular syndrick. Schools. Dr. Parker has not only. Demonstrated integrity, but the mark of, really. A leader is integrity, vision. And positivity and productivity. But also the ability to. Nurture people. I've known Dr. Parr both personally and in the community. I recently had the opportunity. To sit on a panel with her. And the panel addressed the whole issue of stigma and discrimination. Around the whole issue of mental health. Let's face it, right now, in our country. And in our county, we are facing some hard, rough times. And our kids and our community members are really impacted. And I think that Dr. Parr, with her leadership. Can embrace these issues. But not only embrace the issues. Address them, and also
030bring the community together, because right now, we are really hurting. We're divided around the issues of money, we're divided around the whole issue. Of mental health, we're divided around the issue. Of just a bunch of things. Race. And other things, and things that we're not even allowed to talk about. But right now, what we need not only is a leader who can bring people together. But who can, let's face it. Who can make sure that this. This community and this body. Stands fiscally sound. And I think Dr. Parv has shown. The ability to do all of the above. And I thank you all for the opportunity to speak this evening. Good evening. Next up, Cheryl McDonald. Before Ms. Mcdonald starts to speak, let me give you the next five. It's gonna be Carol. Ellison? Barrett
031Austin? Nina, Bryce? Craig Wilson? And Ted… Ramon? Remove? Remove. Thank you. Go ahead, Ms. Mcdonald. Good afternoon, Madam President and Esteemed Trustees and all people. Of all these wonderful candidates today. My name is Cheryl McDonald. I stand before you as co-founder of Leaders of Men, Inc. A dedicated community. Partner, veteran with over 15 years of service. And tenured Facilities Director within the community. I'm honored to offer my full support for Dr. Nikki Parr. And her candidacy for Solano County Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Parr is a passionate advocate for youth and a visionary leader. Whose commitment to educational equity and innovation has made. A lasting impact on our community. Her work reflects a deep understanding of the challenges that our students face. And that includes mental health. With a bold determination to create pathways for their
032success. She brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership. Policy and community engagement. Qualities that are essential for our guiding our county schools. Into a brighter future. Her presence in this role will not just elevate the educational standards across Solano County. We're bringing a French, inclusive perspective. That reflects the diverse voices of our community. Dr. Tarr's leadership style is rooted in collaboration, compassion, and relentless. Pursuit of excellence. He understands that the success of our youth. Is directly tied to the strength of our schools. Families and neighborhood. Someone came up and said community. Dr. Parr is deeply… entrenched in our community. From being… from the grassroots up. Who better to mentor and foster and develop our youth by bringing a wealth of experience. Then, Dr. Parr, I fully support her being appointed as superintendent. Thank you.
033Donald. Next up, Carol… Ellison, Ellison! Allison? You are number 17. All right. Hello, everybody. Carol Collison, I'm a 37-year resident of Vacaville. And I had two boys that went to the back of those school district, and one of them did some. I'm at, uh, Plano JC. And I'm here on behalf of Nikki Parr, she's a… friend, and so… Uh, I told her, Nikki, although I know everybody here calls her. She and I have known each other for a couple years. She joined my Rotary Club, our Rotary Club, in Cordelia. Morning Club. Um, one of the things we both have in common is we join the. Credelia Club? For the same reason. Because of Mayrene Bates. So if you know Maireen, you'll remember. Uh, at any rate, so we're friends, and I'm here to, uh. Suggests
034that, uh, you… Winter now. Um… Okay, thank you all for your service, that's what I wanted to. I wanted to thank you all for your service. I know this is a little bit of an extra effort. And, uh, so the board and the… superintendent and the staff, everybody, thank you very much. And uh… oh, okay. So, I had the pleasure of knocking doors for Nikki when she ran for. The, uh, Fairfield. I'm not an educator, so… Whatever it is, the Fairfield, whatever she did. And I… I enjoyed the experience. I… I do want to say that my impression. Was that… This was not… She didn't come as somebody who wanted to do this for her own self and grandeisman. That she was there because she enjoyed being in the public eye. I really felt like
035she did it out of a passion for the kids. And she overcame a certain amount of reluctance about, you know, knocking doors and… Um, I hope you'll appoint her now. I think that would be great, but if you choose not to, I look forward to knocking doors for Nikki Carr. Okay. Nikki Par, Dr. Parr. I actually knocked on a door and called her. Anyway… She'd be great. So, thank you. Next up, number 18, Jared Austin. Good evening, everyone. My name's Jared Austin. I'm the co-founder and superintendent of Kairos Public Schools. Um, speaking as myself. Um, I also want to just commend all of you and the work that you are doing with this. I know it's going to be a long night. Interviews are coming. I've had the honor in my 20 years to work
036with 3 of your 5 candidates, and your ad hoc committee did a great job at selecting the candidates, because they're all. Great people, but I want to give my endorsement to Dr. Parr, and I'm going to talk a little bit about a story with that in a minute and 30 seconds that I have left. Um, because I want to talk about the bridge builder and just a person who gets things done. And, uh, whenever we came into our school as a smaller school. Um, we had Lisette Estrella Henderson come in and literally pull weeds and plant. Uh, in our gardens, and that demonstrated servant leadership. And then, uh, that's what we've been looking for, and our superintendent of school, so thank you for your service with that. Um, in 2023, we had the unfortunate experience
037of having a previously, uh, promoted students commit suicide. And we were told we won't get any support from county resources because we weren't a part of an MOU. So I called my friend Lisette, and she immediately connected me with Dr. Parr and said, this person will answer your call and get you anything that you need. And resources poured around us, and… We are forever grateful for that tangible thing of coming alongside of a school our size. Not carrying charter, non-charter, any of that stuff. What is good for the kids? A year later, fast forward, we literally had a student cutting themselves in class. Call it for county resources to help with that student. We were told no, we don't have that support. I call Dr. Parr, she mainly got us the resources. Fast-tracked an MOU,
038all the different bureaucracy that I can't tell you in 5 seconds. But ultimately, she gets it done. She's a servant leader. I recommend Dr. Parr. Next up, number 19, Jania Bryce. I apologize in advance if I can't read your writing, or if I mispronounce it. No problem. Um, good afternoon to you all. My name is Dr. Janae Bryce. Um, community activist, um, I wear several hats, but… I was proclaimed the first Poet Laureate of the city of Vallejo, 2015 to 2017. And I stand in a bit of that capacity today. As I share how I really feel. In support of Dr. Nikki Parr. The word superintendent is a compound word. Comprised of the adverb super. And the noun intending. Super, then, is defined as especially. Or vary. It means above, beyond, or over. To a
039greater degree. Intending, then, means an administrative official. Often with supervisory or managerial responsibilities. Root word intend. Which means to have as one's purpose or objective their plan, motivation, and reason. I'm here today not just because Dr. Nikki Parr holds a Master of Arts in History. That's above and beyond. She holds a Master of Science in Elementary Education. That's above and beyond. She is an education specialist in educational leadership. And administration, that's super. And she holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management. That, too. Is above and beyond. Is all set to save. She has gone above and beyond to prepare herself for such a time as this. She is Senior Director of Student Services and Educational Options. As well as serving on the Fairfield Sassoon Unified School District School Board. I am here
040because she has used her extensive and most impressive background. To ensure that all students have. Access and success. That is her motivation. That is her reason, that is her intention. She will continue doing so as Solano County Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Nikki Parr will continue to go above and beyond. Thank you. Thank you. Next up, number 20, Craig Wilson. Thank you, good afternoon. My name is Craig Wilson. I'd like to speak in support. Of Dr. Nikki Parr to be appointed superintendent. Although I served with Dr. Parr on the board. The Fairfield System and Unified School District. My comments are my own. And do not necessarily represent those of the district, the board, or any of my colleagues. Only over the past year. Have I gotten to know Dr. Barr? First, through her campaign, and then
041as a colleague. Including at our board member professional conference. In San Diego, I believe. She would bring great strengths to the superintendent's office. Dr. Parr is not the loudest talker in the room. But she is among the most perceptive. When the seven school board members delet right on the subject. She listens to what the group is saying. But it's not one of those who always needs to chime in. One gets the sense that she's listening to everything above the surface, but also. Below the surface. Therefore, when she talks. The group listens. I count that as a strength. I know little about Dr. Parr's professional qualifications or an experience related to the superintendency. That's your job to evaluate. But, I've seen her many times as a school district representative. At public events, and heard and observed
042her behind the scenes as well, including. Closed sessions on the board, everything. I've seen leads me to conclude that her character strengths. Would be a solid asset if she were to serve as county superintendent. I realize that if you were to appoint her. Your gain would be our loss. But the community at large would benefit. Um, therefore, I have no reservations. And recommending her for this position. Thank you. Thank you. Next up, number 21, Ted Fremo. Thank you, and butchered my name pretty good. It's Fremile, but that's okay. You did it 3 times, but it's okay, everybody does. Um, thank you for allowing me here. Uh, my name is Ted Freemow. I am a member of the Vacaville City Council, but I'm not here on that capacity today. But, um… I'm here in support of
043Manola Garcia. When I think of kindness and compassion, honorable. Understanding, uh, unwavering. On our… I mean, just a very honorable man, uh, that's Manola Garcia. Um, I remember back about 10 years ago, uh, Measure A. Was on the ballot, and we were trying to raise, I believe, $195 million for. City of Vacaville to improve their schools. And Mr. Garcia mobilized a large group of us to get involved. Encouraged us to get involved, and we did. We were out knocking on doors, car windows, buses, uh. Anybody that we could talk to trying to support. The measure to improve our schools. I don't know, I'd also like to say that my… both of my children went through, uh, Markham Elementary, and. It's a pleasure now to stand in the hallway sometimes when my 15-year-old boy is singing
044Spanish in the shower. And I attribute that to his education that he got through what Manolo provided, and. The school is never the same after he left. And, um, I just… I know it's hard, I know that he has a heart for people. He's got a heart for the least of these. He's got a heart for the underserved. And, uh, I strongly support him. Also, on behalf of a friend of mine that wasn't able to make it here today. Uh, he asked me if I would just put a word out in support of Manola Garcia, and his name is Bob Hampton. Former educator here in Solana County for many years. And just asked me to put in a word, so there's the word for him. Thank you. Next up, number 22, Nancy Freemow. I got
045it right that time. Good afternoon. Madam President Coleman? Is that correct? I want to be sure I get this right. Trustees and Superintendent Estrella Henderson. I thank you all for the time to be here today. I need to meet Ms. Park. I'm so encouraged by these things that I'm hearing about this woman. Um, I am a Vacaville resident for over 30 years, and a parent who has two children, one currently in and one graduated from the, um. Through the Vacaville Unified School District. Mr. Garcia was our principal at Markham Elementary. My children went through the SPICE program. Um, frightening to send your child to kindergarten. His PowerPoint, his kindness. His, uh, ability to explain to us what was going on and what was going to happen. We gave him our babies, and… We were not
046disappointed. I'm grateful that we have so many. I'm so happy this is a board of women. I'm sorry, I know that's not on the… it doesn't have anything to do with anything. I'm so grateful because I know women's hearts for children and education. So thank you for all that you're doing, and Ms. Parr, I wish you the best of luck. My heart is for Mr. Garcia, because as a mother. He was the one who took my children by the hand. In a very awkward environment, very weird. They're going to learn Spanish, we're white. I'm sorry, you're not supposed to say that, are you? Um. I can't say more about his humanness I've spoken about that. He follows the rules, he'll look you in the eye, he will ask a question if he doesn't know the
047answer. I'm very grateful for your time, and thank you for letting me speak this afternoon. Next up, number 23, Reito Ferris. Ray Ferris? Barry Saint-Marie. Ray coming up. Okay, we're gonna move on. Number 24, Colleen Van Ness. Okay. Thank you. Good evening, President Coleman, Trustees, and Superintendent Australia Henderson. I stand here as representative of Solano County. Education Executive Board, and a member of our bargaining team. Um, after reviewing all the applicants. Scea would like to endorse Manolo. Garcia, for this position of Superintendent. We have had the fortunate experience of working with him. Um, at our bargaining table, with individual meetings. With members, that can be very complicated. He has always shown educational leadership. Strong collaboration. Integrity, equity. Inclusion. He's very respectful and professional in everybody he interacts with. Um, he also demonstrates. Empathy and a
048deep understanding of the… diverse students that we work with. Um, from… If an old court schools. Foster youth, to special education. He also shows just an integral understanding of our unique students. An educator and classroom needs. He doesn't look past us, he looks at us. And he's poised and ready to listen. And jump right in to collaborate and problem-solve in a meaningful manner. And I… we have greatly appreciated that. So, someone who understands SCO's past and our present. And to us, he seems specifically. Well-equipped to lead us into the future. Thank you. I understand Ms. Ferris is here, so Raido Ferris? Good afternoon, trustees and superintendents Henderson. I'm here to express my, um, support for the appointment of Dr. Nicola Parr as superintendent of Solano County Schools. I've had the privilege of working with Dr.
049Parr since 2006. And directly under her leadership in 2011. I've also collaborated with her on projects while serving as a coordinator for Vallejo City Unified School District. And also, while his principal, Lynn Dixon. She is a visionary leader who fosters growth, accountability, and innovation. Dr. Parr has a unique ability to see the whole child. She's long championed community partnerships. Mental health supports and systems that serve all students. Especially our most vulnerable. Her efforts have led to grant-funded wellness centers. Suicide intervention training and deep collaboration with partners across the county. She leads with compassion, equity, and a deep respect for the community she serves. Dr. Pard listens, learns, and acts with urgency. And I can say with full confidence that she is not only qualified, but uniquely positioned to lead Solano County. At this little moment.
050Thank you. Thank you. Number 25, Dr. Latresa Wilson Alford. Welcome. Mike. My name is actually Latrisa. Thank you. To the president. Our superintendent and trustees. As TAPTA president of the Colano Napa Chapter of Black Women Organized for Political Action. It is with great pride and unwavering confidence that I write to express our full support. For the appointment of Dr. Nikki Park as the next superintendent. Of schools for Salamo County. Dr. Parr is not only a highly respected educational leader, with more than 25 years of service to students, families, and. Excuse me, and educators. But also a valued member of our Bowapa chapter. She exemplifies the integrity, experience, and vision. Our county needs to lead today's challenges into the future. We appreciate the board's efforts to ensure a transparent. An inclusive hiring process. And thank you.
051For opening the opportunity for qualified candidates to apply. That said, we must also express concern about the inclusion of anonymous. Letters, and the application process. Allowing unverified, unsigned letters to influence a public hiring decision. Raise a serious questions about fairness, accountability. And equity. Principles, we know this board values. Anonymous input cannot overweigh verifiable facts and live record of service. Dr. Parr currently serves as Senior Director of. Student Services Educational Options. That's going, where she provides leadership over programs that support foster homeless youth. Juvenile court and community schools, and behavioral health services. Her work directly aligns with the duties of a county supervisor. Superintendent, and she meets the criteria by this board for regional experience, integrity. Leadership and student-centered fiscal management. As the system of Fairfield. No one else is going to finish it. Thank you.
052Thank you. Next up, number 26, Lana Raspberry. There she is. Good afternoon, trustees and superintendent Estrella Henderson. I'm using my teacher voice. I want to share a word with you. Homegrown. When I was a teacher in the Fairfield Sassoon Unified School District. We used to share our excitement for a student. Who grew up in our schools, graduated from college. With a teaching certificate. And returned to teach in the district. Well, we have a strong. Young woman who has done just that. As well as pursued an administrative credential. A doctorate and moved up. To become a program director in the County Office of Education. And an elected board member for Fairfield Sassoon Unified School District. Homegrown. That describes Dr. Nikki Parr. And an individual who has a knowledge and love. Knowledge of and love for the
053community. Where she grew up, and continues to reside with her family. She has demonstrated a personal stake. In the education and welfare of our students. And their parents, in the spirit. Of community involvement. My name is Lana Raspberry, and I am a 45-year resident in Fairfield. A retired teacher of 35 years' experience. 23 of those in the fair… in the spare… in the classrooms. In the Fairfield Sassoon Unified School District. I have known Nikki and her family since she was a freshman. At Fairfield High School. Where she befriended my two daughters. I am proud to say that I have seen her develop. Into a focused, intelligent. And capable individual. And professional. I believe her ample qualifications. Will bring a fresh perspective. To the position. I believe she will leave with compassion. And integrity and fairness
054with staff, as well as with issues. And challenges. I strongly urge you to do. This board to appoint Dr. Nikki Parr as interim. Superintendent homegrown. Thank you. Next up, number 27, Patricia… But Hunter? Thank you. Good afternoon. I'm Patricia Schmidt-Hunter. Um, and good afternoon to the board and to Ms. Lissette, my mert sister. The Vallejo NACP Branch 1081. And our youth unit, 1742. And our 275 members. I rise to support and endorse Dr. Nikki Carr. Dr. Nicola Parbutt will say Nikki. For the appointment of Solano County Superintendent of Schools. You all have heard all of her accolades. All of her achievements. And so I now only have 2 minutes, so… So, Dr. Pard, on our behalf, we say she exudes. The qualifications needed, and she champions. The boots on the ground needed. With the experience
055that our youth deserve and need to see. As an example. And she is a strong example for our youth in Youth Unit 1742. Personally, as a daughter of an educator. And proud family member of educators. We see that Dr. Parr. Is the champion. That this job should be appointed to her. Dr. Pard has what it takes inside the walls of what we call scoli. And beyond. I thank for your time and attention to this matter. Thank you. Next up, number 29… Julia Rootson-Thomas? Joya Thomas? Uh, I have you down… We said we didn't have a number 28. Oh, I got out of order. Alright. Do you want me to speak, or do you want me to… Why don't you let Ms. Leju… Sorry, it got out of order. Good afternoon to the board. My name
056is Dr. Tanya Ledigue. Dr. Parr, as a Fairfield Tassoon Unified School District trustee, Dr. Parr also brings district governance, experience that enhances her understanding of educational policy. And community accountability. This gives her unique insight into the needs of schools. Educators and families in Solano County. In her leadership capacity at SCOE, Dr. Park… are partnered with Bowapa and the Vallejo NAACP and other youth organizations. To co-sponsor a youth-led and cyberbullying symposium. This powerful and timely event gave students the platform to share their experiences. Engage with mental health professionals, and raise awareness around online safety. Dr. Parr's ability to center youth voices, respond to emerging… issues and collaborate with community-based organizations. Speaks volumes about her commitment to inclusive leadership. Her qualifications, as we all know, reflect the board's stated criteria. Leadership within SCOE and regional partnerships. Familiarity
057with Solano County. He was born and raised here. Collaboration across public agencies. Public representation and accountability, fiscal oversight, advocacy for underserved youth. Dr. Parr leads with equity, empathy, and excellence. She is well known and well-trusted throughout Solano County, and her record reflects a deep and unwavering commitment. To the success of all students, on behalf of BAWAPA, and in recognition of Dr. Parr's outstanding qualifications. I respectfully urge you to appoint her as our next Superintendent of school. Sincerely, Dr. Latresa Wilson Alford. Solano Chapter President of Black Women Organized for Political Action. Thank you. Thank you. Now, Julia… Hello, Bori, thank you all very much for hearing us. First, I would like to address the fact that we are doing an appointment one year prior to the… what would be the election. What will be the election?
058Whoever is appointed tonight will be running as an incumbent. Which, as everybody knows, has a ridiculously high success rate. For re-election. I am hearing… so I would just like to voice my disappointment with that in general. I understand you get to retire whenever you want to, but a year before election is… disappointing. I am hearing a lot of voices tonight, which is wonderful, but we are missing a lot of key stakeholders in this conversation. Parents, especially parents of children with special needs. Are distinctly underrepresented. Quite frankly, coming to a meeting tonight. Really difficult. You have to arrange childcare, all that fun stuff. So I am going to be asking some questions as a parent of a child with special needs and representing a couple others. Will you attempt to have schools that have… have schools
059that have served. The county brought back under SCO administration. What are you planning to do to address the staff shortage in classrooms? Uncredentialed teachers have been in classrooms in lieu of credentialed teachers as subs. What will you do to provide support? And provide clear communication to the parents. How would you feel about open communication between them? Uh, all staff and parents. Thank you. Next is Tracy Lacey, number 30. Good evening, I have the rhyming name. Um, so I am here representing on behalf of myself, and again, um, thank you to the trustees and superintendent Australia Henderson. Um, I appreciate the opportunity to support Dr. Nikki Parr for Interim Superintendent. I submitted a letter of support, and unfortunately didn't end up in the packet this evening, so I wanted to make sure I got here. I've
060known Dr. Parr since 2016, or 2016. I was formerly the Mental Health Services Act, or MHSA Coordinator for Solano County Behavioral Health. And I had the privilege to work alongside. Dr. Parr, um, and she understands the importance of addressing the whole child. That includes those children that are experiencing depression, anxiety, attention issues, trauma, abuse. And homelessness. Her dedication to prevention, stigma reduction, and wellness. As well as academic excellence is unparalleled. One of her superpowers is building relationships. And partnerships, both within the LEA community and across multiple sectors. It wasn't uncommon for us to talk at 7 o'clock at night. And I'll quote a previous speaker, it was a superpower. It was above and beyond. And based on our strong relationships, you have the opportunity to participate in an MHSA innovation. That resulted in 50 wellness
061centers here in Solano County. Initially, the plan was for 5, but we were able to expand. And right around that time, we also applied for a grant, which resulted in the school-based mobile crisis program. Which is very successful and has been highlighted at a state level. Neither of us and our departments go in behavioral health. We're not even prepared or aware that we were going to have a pandemic. And so these services were in place when students returned after distance learning. So, given the challenges facing children and youth and the education system, it's imperative that SCO Superintendent. Is able to build relationships, community, leverage resources. That values equity and inclusion. While promoting wellness for students and staff, that's very important. While designing Solano County's education system. So I support Dr. Park. Thank you. Next up,
062number 31, Ashley Banta. Good afternoon, President, Board of Trustees, and Superintendent. My name is Ashley Banta, and I'm here on behalf of myself, but I'm also the Executive Director of Opportunity House. And the City of Vacaville Planning Commissioner. I'm here today to speak about Dr. Parr, who is someone I have the honor of working with for the professional capacity over the last few years. Dr. Parr is not only a dedicated leader, but a mentor and a role model. Not only myself, but all of my staff in our community. He's someone who leads with strategy, compassion, and a deep commitment to our community collaboration. Through her leadership, Dr. Parr has helped Opportunity House expand our services by connecting us with critical resources and funding opportunities. Most importantly, to implement wellness activities and resources, not only at
063our shelter, but on Vacaville High Schools for our at-risk youth. Dr. Parr was also instrumental, and recently we had an employee who committed suicide. And she was my first phone call, and she connected us with critical intervention support for her entire team. Our staff, the youth that live at the shelter, as well as our employees. Children that are, um, part of Solano County. Full district. Um, her impact doesn't stop there, though. Dr. Nikki Parr has also helped with our Solano County Homeless Continuum of Care. Making sure that all the school districts are working collaboratively with our coordinated entry system. In ensuring that all the district liaisons have a community-based organization to speak with. When they have students and families that they come across. This cross-sector coordination and collaboration is just… a huge commitment to our
064community. Dr. Parr exemplifies community-centered leadership. Her work has never been about the spotlight, it's about the outcomes, the partnerships, and the people that she serves. She leads with integrity, heart, and vision. And our community's better having her in it. Thank you. Next up, Supervisor Wanda Williams. Good to see you, Supervisor. I want to just say good evening, President Coleman. Trustees, and… Superintendent Australia. Anderson. I'm here to strongly endorse Dr. Nicola Parr for this appointment. For over 20 years, Dr. Parr has dedicated her career. To transforming lives through education right here in Solano County. Counterpart delivers results. As Senior Director of Student Services. She revolutionized support for at-risk students by coordinating. Comprehensive mental health services. Managing court and community schools. Programs and creating pathways. For youth transitioning from detention. Back to education. She established school wellness
065centers. That serve as lifelines. Or vulnerable students. Her credential speaks for themselves. Bachelor of Education, Educational Leadership. Education specialist degree from George Washington University. Plus advanced degrees in elementary education and history. But her credentials don't make leaders. Results and heart dew. What truly sets apart, Dr. Parr. Is her heart of compassion. I witnessed her transform challenges into opportunities. Not through code administration. But through genuine care for every student. It maximizes resources. To serve students, inspire teams to excellence, and lead. Lcap initiatives that strengthen programming community-wide. Her compassion drives her to sleeping on statistics, to the human face behind every program. A struggling student, the at-risk student. And the family in crisis. The choice is clear, Trustees. Down to par represents hope. For struggling students, opportunity for at-risk youth. And excellence for our entire. Educational community.
066I urge you to appoint her. Thank you very much for this time. Stand before each other. Next… the next group up will be… Number 33, Katherine Rodriguez, 34, Bridget Hundley. Hundley, uh, 35 Joseph Jones. 36, Tatiana White. And 37, Candace… Catherine Rodriguez. I'm gonna try to project my voice. Good evening, board members, superintendent, trustee, and community members. My name is Katherine Rodriguez, and had the privilege of working under Dr. Nicola Parr's leadership for 11 years. As a mental health clinician in the Youth Services Department of the Solana County Office of Education. During that time, I witnessed firsthand Dr. Parr's deep commitment. Not only to students, but to families in the Solomon County community as a whole. What truly makes Dr. Parr stand out is her deep roots in this county. She grew up here, and
067that connection is evident in the way that she leads, with her heart. Empathy and a genuine understanding of what our schools and families need. When I joined the department, we were a small team of just 5. And under Dr. Parr's leadership, it evolved into a large, multidisciplinary team. Dedicated to student well-being. She fostered a collaborative, forward-thinking culture that expanded access to mental health services. And led to the development of impactful programs supporting students throughout the county. Some of those programs included PBIS. Crisis prevention. And the wellness programs, which I was able to support throughout my time in the department. I wholeheartedly believe that Dr. Parr is the right choice for superintendent. She brings experience, integrity, and a deep care for this community. I have no doubt that she will continue to lead with heart. And
068continue to focus on the well-being of this community. Community, and that's why I'm here in strong support of Dr. Nicola Farr. Thank you. Next step, number 34, Brigette Hundley. Once again, Brigette Hunley, number 34. Okay. Johns, you're up. Good afternoon, Board. Is that… good to see you. I'm Joseph Jones, and a long-time educator here. In Solano County, um… spend a lot of time there as well. Um, most of you don't know the fact that, um. I ran for… Super, superintendent of Solano County. And as I've been listening all. Afternoon. I'm starting to feel like… It's just deja vu. It was the most negative experience that I've ever had as a professional. Interviewing for that position. It bothered me because… For 50 years. Superintendent used to recommend. Is the next superintendent. Because that person leaves early.
069The zip ran for a 4-year term. I can take you back in history, this happens every single time for the last 40 years. You, as a board. I don't hope you're taking into account what these people have been telling you all night. You know, there it is an opportunity. For a change. This is the Monroe County Office of Education needs to change. I didn't win, because I'm a change agent. Don't like things the way they are. Yuki that doesn't like things the way they are. There are other ways for us to impact. To serve and support. All of Solano County students. And we need some fresh ideas and fresh thought. Nikki Parr is the person. That can do that for us moving forward. Doesn't have to be your recommendation of the superintendent. Your job. And
070I expect you to do it. I appreciate it very much. Mr. Jones, next up, number 36, Tatiana White. Welcome. Hello. Good evening. Thank you for granting the opportunity to speak tonight. I am grateful to discuss my enthusiasm and support for candidate Dr. Nicola Parr. My name is Tatiana White, and I work here at SCO as a Project Support Analyst and Student Services. I have had the pleasure of working at SCO for 7 years. In which Dr. Parr has been my manager for 5 of those years. Through this time, I have come to admire and witness Dr. Carr as an optimist, professional, and an all-around advocate for Solano youth and families. She is an exemplary definition of a leader. Leading from the heart, but also with incredible vision. Equity, and intellect. A product of Solano County,
071Dr. Parr understands how to identify community deficiency, as well as how to remedy it. And before the effects of the pandemic, she recognized the dire need. For mental health and wellness services within her community. With a keen eye and a proactive spirit for change. And under her leadership, 47 wellness centers have been implemented throughout Solano County. This is only one bullet on her list of achievements, which aren't simply the result of her work ethic, but her character. I've witnessed her ability to listen and collaborate at every level. Maintain composure in the face of adversity and pressure, and produce outcomes which provide opportunity and repair for those in need aching for change. I believe that when you rise to the top. It is your responsibility to help others rise as well. And Dr. Parr has mentored
072many to serve our community, ensuring growth for colleagues. And a nurturing environment which encourages pathways of action. A true public servant, Dr. Parr wants to see Solano County thrive. It is her life's mission and her passion. Therefore, it is my opinion that she'd serve as. Solano County, with incredible grace, strategy, attention, tact. And care as superintendent of schools. Thank you. Thank you. The last card we have is from Candace Jenkins. If you have a comment card and have not submitted it, please submit it now, or. This will be our last speaker. Jenkins? Good evening. Hello, Superintendent Lissette. Community members, members of the board and trustees. It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Dr. Nicola Part, or Superintendent of our district. With over a decade of service in Solano County, she has proven herself to
073be an exceptional leader. Driven by vision, fairness. Unwavering love for our students, staff, and community. First, she is a visionary. She's always imagining bold, systematic improvements in education. That center students' well-being and success. She combines this vision with critical thinking, ensuring that every decision is rooted in data. Equity and thoughtful long-term strategy. Second, she is fair. She treats students, staff, and all stakeholders with respect. Listens to different… differing perspectives and ensures everyone has an equal voice. Her calm, principled leadership has guided our district through both challenges and opportunities. Our commitment to mental health support distinguishes her work. She has consistently gone above and beyond. Forging safe and urging spaces within schools for students to access counseling, support groups, and wellness centers and resources. In doing so, she has honored the whole child and modeled the
074compassionate leadership our district needs. She deeply loves her community and staff. And whether she's visiting school sites, engaging with parents, or advocating for youth, she brings warmth. Sincerity and genuine care creating bonds of trust and shared purpose. Dr. Parr is a strong educat… has a strong educational lineage and background. Her academic credentials can bond with over a decade of hands-on leadership and experience in Solano County. Give her a unique depth and understanding. And the credibility to drive meaningful progress. In short, I believe that Dr. Parr is exactly the leader we need as superintendent. Visionary, fair, analytic, experienced. Caring and community-centered. Thank you. Thank you. We did have 4 online comments that I'm going to read. Um, that were submitted in time. First one is from Jennifer. City of Residence is San Ramon. I am writing
075to provide feedback regarding Stella Kemp's candidacy for Solano County. Superintendent of schools, based on my direct experience working with Dr. Kemp, she is absolutely. Not the right person for this role. In my professional interactions with Stella, I have observed ongoing challenges related to AutoStand collaborative leadership. He has demonstrated a pattern of deflecting responsibility and attempting to shift blame onto colleagues. Which has undermined trust and team morale. When dissatisfied, she has frequently resorted to yelling rather than resolving issues constructively. During her tenure in San SRBUSD, she was responsible for. Budget oversight that resulted in significant mismanagement and long-term operational impacts. It is also my understanding that she has been separated from multiple prior school districts under similarly. Concerning circumstances. Given the high level of integrity, fiscal responsibility, and collaborative leadership required of the Solano County Superintendent.
076Of schools in no uncertain terms, Stella Kemp. Would be a good fit for this position. That's exactly what it said. But… I think she might have had some… spelling errors in there. Next is from Bob. Bob is from Susoon City. Board of Trustees, I have reviewed the original and supplemental board packets of the five candidates. Three are from the Solano County area. Mr. Dolan, who is retired, has one SCO employee reference. Mr. Garcia has multiple SCO employee references, letters. Of support, including union leadership and local district. Coes. This… PAR has no SCO references other than her subordinates and minimal upper management support from local districts. I hope the lack of local LEA support. Is a factor in your decision-making. Next one is from Trell Smead. From Vallejo. Good evening, distinguished members of the Solana County
077Board of Education. My name is Trell Snead, and I serve as a Community Schools Director. I am speaking with you today to express my highest support for Dr. Parr for Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Parr has demonstrated leadership skills that have contributed to the success of our students and community members. In Solano County. As a proud resident of Solano County, I am impressed and excited to know that she is applying for this honorable position. Her leadership would bring positive changes to our schools and communities. Please consider appointing Dr. Parr for this position. Our children and community deserve. To have a leader who stands for all of us. The last one received… It's from Camden Webb, from Benicia. I wish to endorse Dr. Nicola Parr for the appointment of County Superintendent of Schools. I have observed Dr.
078Parr's leadership since I began working for Solano County Behavioral Health in 2014. I provided clinical oversight to the county grant. Excuse me, that funded the program, Dr. Parr oversaw. Myself and the entire county team were repeatedly in awe at the commitment and expertise exuded by Dr. Parr and her team of staff. I personally was so drawn to her leadership that when an opening became available on her team at SCO. I took a pay cut and left a secure job to have the opportunity to grow under Dr. Parr's. Steadfast guidance and wisdom. Since 2019, I have been privileged to be directly supervised by Dr. Parr. As I have served as a clinical services director for our mental health team. Within the Student Services Department. Within that time, I have witnessed her grow a small team of
0795 staff to a mighty team of over 30 passionate individuals. Cultivating an incredible impact on youth and their families within Solano. I have personally grown in my leadership under her tenure, but perhaps more importantly. I have grown as an individual. Dr. Parr is a committed leader who knows how to make hard calls in difficult times. She always centers on the why behind the work, and she and her team are called to perform. She lifts up the voices of those who are often silenced and does not shy away from naming when radical change needs to happen. Without a doubt, I feel that she is THE choice for our next superintendent. She is ready to continue to provide brave. And steady leadership and bring impactful supports at a time when it is warranted, perhaps more than ever.
080That concludes the comment portion. Of this agenda? And I think George… You're gonna do the introductions? This time? Introduction to the campus. Or going through the process. The process first. Thank you. So, um, we've done public comment. And thank you, public. We have all 5 candidates, but we're very fortunate to have an outstanding slate. And it's… I've identified that, the ad hoc committee. Could you first introduce yourself and our legal counsel, Courtney DeGroof? I'm Dr. George Starocchi. Consultant for Las Method. Good evening, everyone. Courtney DeGrove, Legal Counsel for the Board in the County Office of Education. As I was saying, we have an outstanding slate of candidates. Um, we will shortly ask them to come up to the. Podium, and you have a box with 5 ping pong balls. At that point, you will select
081a ping pong ball, and that will be the order of. The interviews. Um, the candidates will be asked. To leave the room and go to a designated area. And then, after the interview, they have a separate decompression area. Um, together, um, their thoughts. Upon conclusion of the interview. Interviews and the board's deliberation, the candidates will rejoin the boardroom. Um, when we get to deliberation. The board will just select one, their number one. Candidate, and give their why. Um, the hope is that you have a majority of. 4, and then they can entertain a motion. If there is not a majority. Then the top two. Uh, boat receivers of. Number one votes will move to the finals. And then you will be asked to, again, give your number one. If we… at that point, we have
082not broken the tie. Then there is a third round of Empath, which has a question, a scenario. Question that's associated with it, and then the board again, once again. I also want to walk you through your binder. Uh, you have in your binder. Um, first you receive them a few questions. I believe you've all been assigned a question, is that correct? Um, to ask. There are 8… total questions. Uh, the candidates have. A total of 40 minutes. And minutes can be used at the beginning. Or the end, set that up any way you want. The board members may ask a follow-up question that is for clarity. If you say something that you just want to know a little bit more, they'll be able to ask you at that time as well. They're also, uh… empathetic
083to the fact that you only have 30 minutes to get through 8 questions, so they won't ask. I don't think it'll be a lot of follow-up questions. With that being said, I think I've covered. The process. In your binder, you have, um… Every cadence. Information. You have a rubric. The rubrics. For your guidance, you can take a look at that. You can use it any way you want, take notes. At the end of the day, you need to decide who your number one candidate is. Within this document, would you speak to a little bit about how we. Pulled together the letters. Yes, and just to add on, for clarity purposes for members of the public. Trustees each have a binder, but it is just the board packet that was posted last week. And there was
084a supplemental packet that was posted yesterday, and then any additional correspondence or comments… really loud for you all. Screaming at you all. No, it's too quiet. Um, any additional correspondence received since the supplemental packet was posted yesterday. There were copies, there were 40 copies of each of those, there were 7 different correspondents. Those are made available outside. With respect to the public comments and correspondence, everything that was received relative to the candidates. Were included. Nothing was specifically excluded or pulled out. Um, I just do want to note with respect to the anonymous letters, those are public records, so those are incorporated in there. Ultimately, excuse me, when it comes to the anonymous letters, it's up to the board to determine. How to weigh those and the relevance of those, and making a decision tonight. To
085the extent the board does not have facts or circumstances to corroborate concerns that have been raised in an anonymous letter, for example. It should not be used as a basis to make a decision. For purposes of completeness, everything that was provided has been included. Any questions from the board? Let me just ask, does anybody on the board have a comment that they want to make before. We start the interview process. Trustee Dean? Thank you. Um. First, um, I just feel so privileged. Be able to meet. The five candidates, those that we don't know. I am wildly impressed. I mean, I feel almost like I'm going to start shaking. Um, and certainly I might cry. Um, it means so much that you have all dedicated your lives. There are our children, our community. And just the
086betterment of… our community and society. I think Mr. Garcia's gonna start crying, so I might start crying, too. Um, it means a lot. And I respect each… I think we all respect each of you tremendously. So I'll start with that. Turning to the community. Um, wow. How terrific of you to show up. And to speak in general, most generally, positive terms, because that's… That's what we want to hear. We want to hear… why you support who you support. I do want to comment on the, um, not only the. Anonymous nature of two of the letters that we received, which… Certainly, as our attorney has suggested, we get to weigh the… the credibility of that, the validity of that. Ourselves. All of us have been elected officials in this county for many years. We each represent
08767,000 people, roughly ourselves, and we act as a team to represent the entire county. We take that obligation. Very, very, very seriously. Um, I personally have other ethical obligations, because I'm an attorney. We take our ethical obligations. Very, very seriously. And for anyone to suggest, without evidence or basis. That my colleagues on the, um, advisory committee. Ad hoc committee. Would do anything untoward. There's no basis for that. In my world, in governance. I have this thing that happens. Um, often. I see it all the time as a lawyer. We have Fact Day, which is established. We have fact C, which is established. And then people in their own minds create. Be as the analysis. I call that the conspiracy leap. I do. And we're all used to it, and especially in these trying times. People
088make a leap. Without having a basis to do so. And I will tell you right now, I stand behind my colleagues' determinations in terms of. The qualifications necessary. For the position, and any choices that they made related to that. There's no basis to suggest anything else occurred. Similarly, any suggestion that. The last superintendent appointment. Occurred behind closed doors. Similarly, without basis. That, uh, discussion wasn't really before us until one of the folks. Submitted a comment letter that included that statement. It's absolutely false. And I… and… for me as an attorney, when, um… A false record is created. And is unanswered, it becomes the record. So I'm answering that. I was the president when we did the last appointment process. Ms. Estrella Henderson was not appointed immediately. She was not appointed without process, even though many
089people stood up and asked us to do that. Just like this process, we had the option of just appointing somebody immediately. We had the option of bringing forward the process, the very open public process. That we have today, or we had the option of spending millions of dollars on a special election. We chose, at that time. This process that you're seeing. It is exactly the same process. So any suggestion that. And me, as the president. Or any of my board colleagues. We're doing something behind the scenes, or untoward, is completely and utterly. False. So that… For the record, is the record. Having said all that, this is one of the… I am… this is the most… one of the most honored moments in my life. To be able to sit here before you. And to
090hear from this community and these excellent candidates. Thank you. I just want to point out, in case you weren't at the last meeting, that to run a special election for this position. Would have cost a minimum of 2.4 to $2.5 million. And I can see that much better spent in our classrooms and on our staff. All right, candidates, now it's your turn! You gotta come up and draw a ping pong ball. Whatever number you get on your ping pong ball, that's the order we will interview you. And I will tell you, we will draw in alphabetical order. Well, first up is Mr. Dolan! Number two, give that ping pong ball to Dr. George. Is Manolo next? Yep. Anolo! Before! Next up… For 5! Next up, Dr. Parr. Number three, well, we know what your number
091is? There you go, Micah. Yeah, you're number one. Just testing the mic position, if that's okay? Yeah. 6'4 is a little tough on the mic sometimes. Writing for George. Let's have a little housekeeping in the back. Dr. Zakaris is… Taking care of that. I think the candidate's situated. Micah, we're gonna go ahead and… well, let's wait until Dana gets back, Dana. Open seat next to you? President Coleman, we just wanted to point out that for the candidates, there's water right next to them in case they would like one. Right now, Dana. Would this be a good moment to talk about the beautiful weather we've been having? Okay, so we will… Start the time, you have, uh… an opening statement, and then we'll have questions, and then you can have a closing statement. It's a total
092time of 40 minutes. Oh, you're… that's you. All right, well, thank you, um, Madam President Coleman. Um, Superintendent Stray Henderson, it's a pleasure to see you, trustees. Thank you for having me tonight, if it pleases the board. I'll go and take 5 minutes on the front end and 5 minutes on the back end for closing remarks. So, uh, thank you for the opportunity to speak with you this evening. I'll be using 5 minutes now, and like I said, 5 minutes later. It's a privilege to be here, and not just as an educational leader. But as someone whose family lives, works, and learns in this community. My wife teaches in Solano County Schools, my kids attend Solano County Schools. And for me, this work is guided by a core personal belief. Um, that I've kept throughout
093my career, and that is services students, their families, and the communities. Um, this value has shaped every leadership role that I've held. At the school site, at the district office, at the county office, and at the charter levels. You said he has taught me something new. Um, something I think I uniquely bring to this, um. Candidate pool, but all of them have reinforced one thing. Schools exist to serve our communities and not the other way around. Um, today I serve as the Chief Academic Officer for one of the largest charter schools in the state of California. I have over 400 employees, a $110 million budget. I mean, across instruction, operations, human resources. I'm compliance, and I'm always asking. How does every decision I make. Serve the students and their families that we're aiming to. Oh.
094I may not come to you with a full slate of endorsements. But I do bring one thing, and that is readiness. Readiness to support this office with steadiness, insight, and deep respect. For the responsibility that it carries. During the pandemic, I supported school districts countywide in Yolo County. Helping manage critical funding streams. While leading departments of our alternative education, college and career readiness, curriculum. Instructions in foster youth and homeless services. Um, establishing community schools and ensuring resources both flowed, and made sure all compliance aspects were met, even as they changed on a daily basis. Over the last decade, I've also served as a legislative advocate at both the state and the federal levels. I've worked to ensure that the policies shaping our schools reflect real-world needs of our students and their families. I may not
095be a politician… yet. But I understand how policy and practice intersect when we keep students at the center. If selected, I would begin with humility and curiosity, listening carefully, supporting teams already in motion. Working alongside you, the board. To ensure continuity and service at every level. Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to offering a few closing remarks at the end of this. Now we're going into the questions, right? So, um, each board member will ask you a question. I'm gonna start off the… questions, and then it'll be Trustee Dunn, Trustee Cohen-Thompson, Trustee Lavelle, Trustee Sharp. Trustee Cheek, Trustee Dean, and then I'll end the questions. Okay, the first question, why are you interested in serving as the Salona County Superintendent of Schools? Please describe your most recent leadership role and
096how it has prepared you for this position. You know, I've asked myself this question as I was made aware by Dr. Sirakis that we would be answering these questions publicly as a matter of public record. And it does take a certain amount of soul-searching to be able to accept an interview publicly. But then I thought about the experience I had with, um. Um, Superintendent… sorry, I know her as Lisette, I apologize. Um, Superintendent Australia Henderson, when I was working at Yolo County. And one of the things I said at that time to my wife of 21 years was. There's a job I would like to have. I would like… I would like to have Lisette's job. I said it in those terms. Um, and over the years, I've been thinking, what does it take to
097be prepared for that job? And as I constructed my career. Um, I've made sure that I had a diversity of experiences, both at the site level, the district level, the county level. And at the charter level, to ensure that all needs across all districts. In Solano County are able to be met. Um, and when you're asking about the recent leadership experience, um, as a chief academic officer, 7,700 kids across 9 counties, including Solano. Um, managing a very large budget, ensuring services across all levels, especially for the students most vulnerable. Um, has been my mission. And not only has it been my mission, but we've delivered results constantly improving test scores for both all of our student groups. As well as our English Learner populations, improving graduation rate by over 10% last year alone. And making
098sure that our students get the resourcing they need. Um, I work at a very non-traditional school named Visions in Education. It is a non-classroom-based charter school. I went there specifically after the pandemic to make sure that they lessons that we learned there. As students are looking for more educational options. Can we see if they could be scaled, and… One of the things that has been fun while working there has been the ability to establish college and career readiness programs through partnerships. With a community college district, not just a community. College, as well as CTE programs, and ensuring that coordination of resources across nine counties is able to happen. And that takes a lot of work and a lot of networking. Um, so while I have had deep Solano roots as a resident, I've been living
099here since I was 9 years old. My career has spanned the gamut, and my network spans the state of California. So that is, um, both why I am here. I've been inspired, I love the work that I saw with Solano County, I love the ability to work with and alongside our districts and serve our students. As well as the preparation it takes to be ready for such a responsibility. Question 2, describe your experience working within or in partnership with the County Office of Education or regional service provider. How did you contribute to organizational goals or initiatives? So, as the assistant superintendent at Yolo County Office of Education, my responsibilities were very diverse. Um, like I said, I oversaw the Alternative Education Program, which allowed me to serve. Um, and set up the community schools. Um,
100I was the architect and grant writer for the, um, Yolo County Roadmap project. Um, we worked alongside Mental Health and Human Services, Probation Department, Sheriff. Um, it was all in on the community, and… Um, in addition to that, needing to work with CDE and state-level agencies to ensure grants and timelines. Um, we're all met, but in addition to that, I was able to serve on, um. With CSASA County Superintendents Association. I believe. Um, I was with their, um, Alternative Ed Steering Committee. Where we worked on legislation and policy to ensure that equitable funding for our students in our court and community schools. Was adequately allocated to meet our students' needs. Um, and so, in that also, I served, um, Davis Woodland, West Sacramento, Esparto, and Winters. Um, and one of the things I love to
101say about the service there is that they were… that's a very diverse community base. And when you look at what it takes to be able to meet diverse needs. Um, you have a college town, you have a suburb, you have an urban area, you have rural. And we were able to support and meet the needs. Um, of those different communities, and to this day, I count many of those people. They're my friends still. We still get together, and just most recently had a PLC conference in Sacramento. It's always, like, a small family reunion, so… Um, that's been my, um, experience working with the county and interagency, so… Grant writing, leadership, and district resource. Okay, um, mine is a two-part question, and uh… begins with, what is your understanding of the unique. Educational, social. In economic
102context. Of Solano County. I'll ask that first, and then… follow up with the second. You can ask it all at once, Peggy, so… Alright, well, then I'll start from the beginning. What is your understanding of the unique educational, social, and economic context. Lano County, and how would you… How would that knowledge inform your leadership? Approach. No, that drives me back to my teaching years. I spent the bulk of my teaching years. Playoff Minnie and Corcoran in the crest. Um, and I absolutely… and that has really shaped. Basically everything I've done as an educator since. And, um… I think I would first say I don't know that Solano County is unique. You have students, you have family. Um, but in that, you have unique communities. And I think within that, Vacaville has its own. And identity,
103but so does Vallejo, so does Benicia, so does Dixon. And just like I learned at Yolo County, those are… the politics, the intersectionality, and the resourcing need. Um, I think it would be a little bit, um. Assumptive to say that you could generalize that to a single sort of statement. Um, they all have different communities, and one thing that YOLO did teach me was this. Is that those needs pivot on a dime. I did hear a lot of our candidates, and it brought back a lot of fond memories. The ability of a county office to be what our districts need us to be when they need us to be it. Um, Dr. Jeff Duncan Andrade, who hails out of the Bay Area, was, um. One of the people I look to as a mentor for
104the equity work that we are involved in. And his definition was, equity is giving everybody what they need when they need it. And when you're looking at the unique context of Solano County. I think the one thing that definitely needs to be given more attention is our Bay Area counties. Our Bay Area, um, cities. Venetia and Vallejo in particular. Um, I even noticed today as we look at our slate of candidates, a lot of us hail from Vacaville. Um, and while I'm a lifelong proud Bacavillian. I think that whoever sits in the seat must take into account. That we… that there is a broad population, and the populations that, quite frankly, don't feel historically served. And so one of the things I would do as the county superintendent. Is ensure that that service and those
105needs are met. Um, I was proud to celebrate alongside Vallejo when they left receivership. Um, a lot of my friends and colleagues and mentors still reside in Vallejo. Um, but I've called Vacaville home my whole life, and so I'm most familiar with Vacaville. But, you know, when I was a young person, we went to church in Dixon. Airfield. And so, when I think about all those different contexts, they all feel like home to me. Um, so how unique are they? I don't know that they're that unique, but they all have differing needs, depending. On the moment, depending on the day, and quite frankly, depending on the mission and vision of the school board. And the superintendents that are leading that school district. Trustee Lavelle? Um, please share an example of a successful interagency collaboration you
106led or participated in at the county level. What was your role, and what… outcomes were achieved. Picking, picking, picking from a couple. Um, I think the one that probably I'm most proud of that continues on today is the Yolo County Roadmap. Um, that started with a phone call from my superintendent back in the early days. Pandemic, saying, hey, I have a vision. I said, let's go. And… but was very interesting in that. Was how did we… were we able to make. Contacts with all of our county folks and our… More importantly, how do you bring everybody to the table within their own domains? Um, one of the things that is true is we all want to be successful. We all want to make a difference. How do we really cast a vision for. For a
107unified division, a unified difference. I'm with that Yolo County Roadmap has been able to accomplish is provide a common language, a common resourcing, and a common network. To, um, provide services, um, both to students and their families. Across the county. Um, one of the things I'm currently most proud of is when I look at, um. Our school that I currently work at. We have been able to launch both a dual enrollment and CTE program across 9 counties. Taking into account all of the different community college districts. One of the things, um, I'm sure you all are well. Community college politics. B-12 politics are very different. Um, and there are… and the boundaries of those community college districts are different. How we handle and navigate policy with our friends are different. Um, how we manage CTE
108and the different trade and industrial partners across. Of our communities is different. Um, on one hand, we're working with SMUD, on another hand, we're working with PG&E. Um, and all of the different cities have very large. Contracting agencies that have different requirements. Different thoughts, feelings about what they need. And so taking into account all that aggregate. I'm designing a program that is both accessible and meaningful for the students that we serve. Has been incredible, and our, and our CTE enrollment has grown by hundreds. Um, by the wild… over the 10 years since we've launched it, which is a pace that exceeded our expectations. As well as our CCI indicator, I think, has tripled since we… started our program. And so, you know, at the end of the day. Whenever we start something new, whenever we
109look at… it's really who's already doing it. How do we partner with them? How do we form a common vision, and how do we get to work? Trustee Sharp? Uh, question number 5. What is your approach to working with the County Board of Education, and how would you foster a collaborative and transparent relationship with board members? Well, see, isn't this one of the most unique political relationships in all of election? On one hand, you have an elected superintendent whose responsibility it is to lead the organization, and on the other hand, you have the Board of Education, whose responsibility it is to make sure that the budget and the fiscal needs met, and that, in this case, superintendents get appointed. Um, I do have a lot of, uh, a lot of my friends still from Yolo
110County on the Board of Education. I asked that question, what does a good superintendent do? And one of the things that he said… that they said was, um. Elevate voices and give opportunities for the board to get involved. Um, one of the things that unfortunately does happen occasionally across different county boards. Is it becomes a who is more in charge? Competition, and it evolves into something. Either the board is sidelined, or the superintendent is sidelined. And, um, in my vision for how I would work with the board, one, I would love to know each and every one of you individually. The things that you're interested in, the things you want to accomplish, the things that, um. Are the projects you're interested in. Um, and then find ways to both involve and elevate the voice. While
111maintaining the role and responsibilities of the county superintendent. Including ensuring that fiscal stability, providing you with a budget that is both solvent. And sustainable for the out years. Um, that is a positively qualified budget that we're gonna be doing great things for kids for many years to come. So, in it, the role of the superintendent and the board is really one of partnership. When the board and the superintendent get along and work together well. When the superintendent looks for ways to involve the board in both the work of the county office, but also the work of the local schools. And finds ways to elevate their voice and their status, um, as officials who are. I'm really, um… with representing the voice of education for their communities. That's what my vision for that partnership looks like.
112It is one of collaboration and partnership. Trustee Cheek? I have question number 6, and, um, please describe your experience managing complex budgets, including. Local control formula, LCFF, and grants. What steps have you taken to ensure sound fiscal practices? Excellent. Um, so… I find it interesting, um, I enjoyed attending the board meeting, I think it was two board meeting sessions ago, and hearing the budget presentation. You know, as I think about the fact that right now the budget I'm supporting is $110 million. How do we manage that through the LCFF process? I'm reminded of when I was a district administrator. And the LCFF process just got launched. And my superintendent looked at me and said, guess what? You're in charge, figure it out. Um, and I was so upset because I didn't have any. I didn't
113know what to do. But what I didn't realize was what a gift it was to sort of figure out how this whole LCFF process worked. Um, and in a lot of ways, one of the things that, um. That experience taught me was your community provides you with good feedback as you provide them education. And input. The more you involve your community, the better feedback they give you on your budgetary process in terms of setting your priorities. So, um, in terms of the fiscal process, it's quite straightforward. The budget process is. Blind out. Don't spend more than you bring in. Make sure you have a healthy reserve. Make sure you… are conservative with your projections, make sure that. You know, you don't put one-time money to ongoing expenses. I mean, there are some very sound physical
114practices that are universal. But I think the question is more geared at, not, um… just how do you maintain a solid budget, but really, how do you involve all the right, um. Critical partners in that budget-making process. And really, listening is the key to maintaining a strong budget. And staying focused. There is an insurmountable number of good things that need to happen in any school district, any school, any place. The question really is, what is most important at the moment, and how do we as a school system not squirrel. Um, and go off into different directions. When there is a consistent mission and vision that we are trying to accomplish. If we get together and we decide this is what we're trying to accomplish, then we better put both our resource, time, and effort at
115accomplishing that. Um, and as we think about different programs that we want to develop, the question is, do we both have the resource funding and the personnel? And the capacity to absorb. New bodies of work. Again, a lot of folks have, um. Gone into negative quali… gone into negative budgets because of over-attaching. Ongoing expenses to one-time grant funding. Or they capitulate sometimes when sometimes holding the line is the right thing to do. And oftentimes, part of that just comes from not educating both your staff and your public appropriately. With really what is the fiscal health? What are the needs, what are the… what is the context that you're designing your budget in? Um, and one of the things that also I think is incredibly important. That I do at the school I've worked at, and
116everywhere I've worked at, partly because I had good friends who were CBOs, I still teach. As well. Um, because of this. Um, I was wanting to buy some computers. And my, uh, CBO at the time, uh, she said. Well, what budget strings do you want? I don't know, I just want to buy a computer. She goes, well, I need to know what code. I said, why? And she took me and sat me down and explained SACS codes. And what a 17 string digit meant. And what a valuable partnership emerged from that, because then I could speak sex. And then I would educate her on what we're trying to accomplish in the program. And what we then both led and taught with is. The world is a beautiful place when program speaks enough fiscal. To help
117fiscal understand the story that program is trying to accomplish. And when that we understand one another's needs, and why certain things happen. At how certain budget flows. When do things hit the county treasury? How does all of that happen? Um, that's a very complex process, but it is worth the learning. So that we maintain both, um, a collaborative partnership and a collaborative understanding. Of what we're trying to accomplish together, because at the end of the day, it's not fiscal or program, it's us. And our kids either succeed or fail based on how we work together. Trustee Dean? What efforts have you led to improve curriculum, instruction, and compliance? Excuse me, and compliance with California standards. How have you supported underserved populations, such as foster youth. English learners and students in alternative or special education programs.
118It's interesting, as the Chief Academic Officer at Visions right now. Um, all those fall under my purview. And I think one of the… We've had an opportunity to onboard. A new director, and one of the questions that they asked me recently. What matters to you as a leader? How do you know about good leadership? And the way I answer that question that they asked me. It was very simple. What you believe is irrelevant. What you do matters, right? Everybody can talk a good game, and they can say, I believe this, I believe that. At the end of the day, it's how you spend your money. And how you structure things, that shows what you actually believe. So, to that end, when you look at how we've supported special education. Um, special education is a way
119to support all students. Not just those with special needs. Special needs students are not just a separate population that live on their own little island. Um, that money that it comes from the federal government, comes from the state. Is designed to support their needs. But all students are… all special ed students are general ed students first, and they have rights and access to all of the same resources that our general education population. As to begin with. Um, when it comes to English learner students, we have. Establish critical programs, um, that aim at providing both, um, integrated and designated ELD. At all times, um, we just reviewed our LP indicator today, which has gone up 5 points, which. Screen, which is fantastic. Really appreciate that. Um, when you look at the needs of our, um. Bearing,
120uh, low-income students. Uh, that we have established a student services department that provides robust wraparound services at every county that we work in. At every level. Um, and so when we have a student in crisis, we have a hotline, we have a team that goes out and meets with the family. Connect them with county resources, we're able to go beyond the school walls. And make sure that they have a lifeline. Um, and with a school population like ours, we also have some degree of transiency. Um, and because of that, we need to know where each resource in each county is to make sure. That need is met. When it comes to curriculum and instruction, um, I am a big believer in the. Professional Learning Community Model. Not as just a meeting on Wednesdays. Professional learning
121communities means that adults learn together, so kids can learn better. It means that we start with, what do we want students to know? How do we know if they learned it? What do we do if they have? What do we do if they haven't? Um, and that information of what do we want students to learn is designated by the state standards. And in those state standards, there are essential standards that we need to meet, and we need to assess them, and we need to be successful at. I do also believe that the magic in education really lies with the teacher, and there is a number of good curriculum out there, and. There's curriculum vetting processes, which we have led. But at the same point in time, really the question is, is when you're talking about
122curriculum, the textbook can only do so much lifting. Really good teaching as the core of any good instruction. And we have put resources. I have put resources towards developing incredible educators who I'm proud to call my colleagues. And I have the last question. What distinguishes you from the other candidates? Why do you believe you are the best fit to lead Solano County Office of Education at this time? You know, uh, that's a… that's a question I've been asking myself the last week as I reviewed the board packet. Um, one, I just would say it's an incredible honor to. Think about the people I get to stand here among. Many of whom I've known in a variety of capacities. Um, and it makes me smile. Um, I'm… I have 16 years left. What makes me unique?
123I have 16 years left. Um, that means, by my estimation. I have 4 election cycles, um, that… we can do amazing work together. But also makes you mean unique. You heard a lot of public comment about. Um, I have been born, raised, grown in Solano County. But my professional experience spans. A very wide radius. Um, I am one of the few candidates who has worked at all levels. Of school education. Um, when you… when you look at my application, you'll see that I've been in the charter school system. District system, the county system. And in a charter system. And I think when you look at the unique needs, like I said, in each one of the counties and what they may need at any given time. I'm one of the few candidates that has all
124of that experience. That can help. We just recently got our charter re-approved from San Juan Unified School District, one of the largest districts in the. California. I mean, it was a two-minute process. You know, we went through, we did our charter, it was like a thousand pages, it was crazy. Um, and then at the end, the board unanimously said. Go have fun. They didn't quite say it that way, but that's how I interpreted it. But the ability to kind of lean into that, like, what does it mean to write a petition and a philosophy for an entire school? Also is the same skill set when I was working with Washington Unified in helping. Um, their superintendent with strategic planning. When I was calling up the superintendent of Davis and looking at, um, strategic planning around
125the LCAP resources when we had Proud Boys showing up. Um, to board meetings. Um, all of those skills come into play. From a diversity of experience. So again. Well, my whole professional experience has not been rooted in Solano County. What you would get is somebody who is experienced in a diversity of contexts. Who can handle the diversity of challenges. And more importantly, meet the needs of the diversity of our students. In our education system. Thank you, those are our 8 questions, so if you want to conclude with your… So that concludes. You can, uh, do your… ending statement, if you want. Excellent, thank you. Um, thank you again, President Coleman, um, Trustee, Superintendent, for allowing me to speak earlier, and the opportunity to close. Um, as you weigh this decision, I want to… I want
126to acknowledge the significance of it. Selecting a superintendent isn't just a personnel decision. It's really a values decision. It's about choosing someone who can uphold your trust. Create stability and ensure that service to students. Families and community remains front and center of all the work that they do. That's the lens that I brought to every role I have, and it's the lens I would bring to this role. I've led in moments when urgency demanded clear thinking. I've worked across a complex system across nine counties where partnerships were absolutely critical. I built structures that don't just meet compliance. They support people. During the height of the pandemic, I helped districts navigate shifting requirements. Manage federal, state, and emergency funds. I think my record was 45 different funding streams at one time. And ensured that continuity of
127service for some of our most vulnerable youth. Including foster youth and those incarcerated were met. Um, I also understand that the most important part of leadership is tone, how we show up, how we build trust, and how we serve others through times of uncertainty. This interim period is an opportunity. Not just to hold the line, but to listen. To strengthen the foundation and prepare the path forward for the next permanent leader. Um, if chosen, I would approach this work with focus. On the people, on the programs, and on the partnerships. Move this county forward. And I would do that by asking, what's… what does service look like right now in the season for this team? And in this community, and in the districts that we serve. I also want to acknowledge that this decision is
128not easy, and that you have. Lots of strong candidates before you. This speaks volumes about the depth of leadership in Solano County. But I hope you'll consider more than just the, um. Endorsements alone. I hope you weigh the ability to lead with purpose. With steadiness and with a heart for service. For me, this is personal. My wife teaches here. My kids attend our schools, I see the work of this office in my own home. I feel the impact of your decisions, both as a professional and a parent. If appointed, I would start with gratitude. Clarity and care, and I would do everything I can to leave this organization stronger than I found it. For the students and families that it exists to serve. Thank you. We just have one follow-up question. Yes. If selected for
129this appointment, do you intend to run for the county superintendent position in the June 2026 election? And if yes, are you familiar with the election requirements and process for the candidacy? Both answers to those questions are absolutely unequivocally yes. Alright, thank you very much. Okay, thank you. Okay. All right, next up… Brian Dolan! Okay, Brian, you're gonna have… 40 minutes total. We have 8 questions we're gonna… ask you, and then you can give an introductory opening statement, and then a closing statement. Is this the only, uh, timekeeping… That is the only… Oh, no, it's on here, too. Oh, there you go. President Coleman, do we have all the trustees? Okay, Brian. Thank you. Um, as stated, I'm Brian Dolan, and I'm here tonight with the most sincere effort I can. Offer to become the superintendent
130of Schools for Solano County. And unlike others, and I'll talk about this a little bit more later. I want to do this for 15 months. I want to take the county office to the transition to a. Fully elected, non-incumbent. Superintendent of Schools. Talk about that. A little bit later. A couple things you should know right off the bat. This is my first job interview since 1998. I was 14, so… Um, yeah, Dixon High School Principal was my last job interview all that time ago. And I, um… Got the job, uh, and um… or tied to work almost every day. This is only the third time I'm wearing a tie since last June 20th. Which was my last board meeting before I retired. The other ones were funerals. So I hope this here tonight doesn't take
131that kind of turn for me. And, um, and finally… I've never met a microphone that I don't like. And when I've been in charge of my own district. Time limit? What time limit? Dolan can keep going. I'm gonna watch the clock, because I do want to answer all of your questions. And I want to be able to demonstrate to you why I do think I'm the best choice. Serve as the superintendent of schools. So, um, I don't look like… probably, uh, most first-generation Americans when we think about first-generation Americans, but I am one. Um, Dad came from Ireland when they were teenagers. On my dad to become a priest. Thankfully, didn't work out, right? Otherwise, I wouldn't be here for this job tonight. Um, 4 kids. Um, and we were very, very much an Irish
132Catholic family. Culturally, we just weren't the same as, uh, as the neighbors. And, um, we… benefited from that life of being. Um, up in the Seattle area. Go Seahawks. Sorry about that. Um, we were part of a very, very tight-knit. Community through the region. And, um… When I was a 5th grader, we upped and moved to Napa, California. We did not… we did not know a single person in the entire state. Not one. Dad got a job offer. And so we moved on down. Like I said, I was a 5th grader, and um… We, um, completed our educations in Napa through high school. I went to Catholic schools. Now, I've only worked in public schools. A very deliberate choice in that. The thing about, um, attending Catholic schools was the examples. That I saw of,
133um… through service in the effort to educate and help develop kids. Was there every day in terms of… nuns and priests and brothers. And laypeople as well, who made the commitment. Beyond taking a job and… really wanting to do it well. Um, they took it more deeply than that. Treated it more deeply than that. I went to, um… Happy Valley College for a couple years. I went to UC Davis, where I, uh. Graduated with a BA in International Relations. Um, I student-taught. Um, I did my teaching credential, excuse me. Then I student-taught it back at high. And that was my first little step into Solano. County. And, um, for the next 36 years, I've worked here. Until then's June 30th. I spent 8 years teaching in Vacaville, 2 out at Vandon as an assistant principal.
13426 years in my true home, Dixon, California. 18 of them working in the district office, which I think is really important for this job. The final 13 of which I was the superintendent of schools. I think that's a really important factor in your considerations tonight. I believe that, um… I believe that we're raising children. And I've had people, um. Shake their head, no, we're not, when I say that. I'm a math teacher, or, um… That's a parent's job. Of course it is, that we're raising children with them. We're raising children in the context of. Of a society where. Where the need to raise children through our systems is greater than it's ever been before. And tougher, probably, as well. What I hope to demonstrate through, um, your question and my responses… is my background, my
135expertise, my experience. Um, that does the two things, the two big things I think you're looking for in your new superintendent. One, somebody who can do the job. Somebody who can make the trains run on time. Make sure that children and staff are served and parents are embraced and included. And we have ties to the community. And that the bills get paid, and everything else, um, about making a school district actually run. I've been there and done that. And the other element of what I think you're looking for. Is somebody for whom… This is not just a job. It's based on their deep commitment. They're the people… Our students and families first. And then our staff and community as well. That's me. I'm ready for question one, if you are too. Alright. First question is
136gonna come from me. Why are you interested in serving as a Solano County Superintendent of Schools? Please describe your most recent leadership role and how it has prepared you for this position. Okay, so I did some of that, and I'm, uh, not referring to notes, I want to jot down. Questions that, um… may be difficult. To remember all of. So, um, why do I want to do this? You know, uh, through my career, people had asked me, you ever want to be the, um… County Superintendent of Schools. Answer, always, no. No, no, no. No interest. I don't want to campaign, I don't want to seek endorsements, I don't want to raise money. All of that stuff felt like something I just did. I don't want to engage in. And, um… and then this circumstance developed.
137And, you know, through my service in Dixon, I've been able to be, um. Very attached to the County Office of Education. Here, and programs, and they've been a great support for Dixon over the years. Um… We're in tumultuous times. And there's a great deal of uncertainty in what's going to happen in our world. Of education. And I think at this particular time. We benefit when we have. Ability and experience. And people who have been there and done that to the point where they can tell other people. No, that's… that's… that's not meeting our obligation for kids. No, that's… that's not the fiscally sound… way to approach this… this circumstance. No, we're gonna go and we're gonna fight like heck. Uh, to make sure that all the title funds. And, uh, and LEAs. So I was,
138um… I was attracted to doing. This work. Because it really is an extension. In several ways of the work I've been doing. An extension to a broader population. Attention to different kind of programs to a large degree, uh, than what I've worked in. Um, especially education at the county level is very different than special education. At the district level. Different flavors of the same ice cream. But I would say. And, um… You know, I felt… I want to try to help. I've not been a very good retiree. Um, and so, uh, between thinking. I could… I could really help bridge the gap into. Enter a new superintendent. This has also given me a little bit of spark and oomph. And when I think about next December. Um, second chance at retirement might just go… a
139little better than this first one has, because. As I know what… what to do and what not to do. Um, I have been the Chief Executive Officer of Dixon Unified School District. I was, uh, for 13 years. Thank you. Describe your experience working within or in partnership with the County Office of Education or regional service provider. How did you contribute to organizational goals or initiatives? Great. And as I said, um. Dixon's had a great relationship. Partnership with the County Office of Education. Um, and… We have been benefited in many, many ways. Let me pick mental health. We heard an awful lot tonight from public comment. About, um, the development of mental health programs. In the county. And in particular, one of our candidates, who was instrumental in that, and I can tell you firsthand, yes,
140she was. Uh, because she assisted us in Dixon. Um… stigma around mental health. Quite literally is lethal. So, I busted out a few years back and started talking about my major depressive disorder. And coaching and advising families and staff. To go get some assistance. I've been there, done that as well. Um, and so when… Uh, when I was approached. By Nikki and others at SCO about, do you want to get into this grant and start. Providing some services. I didn't ask anybody. Um, in the district or the board. About us doing that, and I said, absolutely. We really were the first district in the county to get on board. With the wellness centers in particular. We were stumbling around trying to find those types of resources. Uh, the dollars weren't there, and the expertise wasn't
141there. So, through our partnership with SCO. We were able to… Additionally, combined with the Solano County Mental Health. And soon, uh, there's the three of us. Who are talking about program, talking about funding. Talking about staffing. Talking about the facility components of this, all these various pieces. Um, with not a single moment of ego, or… concerned about who's getting the credit for this. Any of those types of things. I know Lisa was absolutely on board. Because she was part of. This entire effort. Um… My board became very, very supportive. And it took… I'm not sure how long… at least a good year to really get things in place. But as I retired last year. That initiative around mental health. Around wellness centers. Around PBIS? Um, I view as one of the most important contributions. That
142I made, and that we were able to, um. Ethan Dixon. A lot of power in what we did. Not a benefit for a lot of people. Trustee Cohen-Thompson? Yes. My question is, what is your understanding of the unique educational. Social and economic context. Of Solano County, and how… Would that knowledge… form your leadership. Thank you. So, as I said, I've been here, uh, 36 years. And, um, have seen a lot. Heard a lot, read a lot. Done a lot, and met a lot of people. I feel that, um, I understand our broad community of Solano County well. And I think there's, um, there's many stories attached to it. So there's a great deal of diversity. Um, in Solano County. And, um, while… I think we can be tempted to go straight. To, um… ethnicity and
143race and gender and things like that. There's a lot of socioeconomic diversity as well. There's diversity around language. There's, uh, diversity around. Safety, basic needs. Uh, for… for people, for families and students in particular, in our case. Certainly some areas of the county that are housed, and certainly. Areas of the county that are have-nots. Um, the… economic backbone of the county. Is interesting, and I think it's… gonna change over time. I'm fixing his schedule to build. 1,600 homes in the next little while. One of the California Forever Everything pumps. And that becomes part of our reality. I heard, uh, your conversation, sorry for the chuckle. Around the economic development. Um, whatever, I forget the last name of it, and I won't… I won't ask for help with that. Um… there are partners out there who
144are ready, willing, and able. To assist us, right? In, uh, in Dixon, we've got. Great. Um… community groups, like Rotary and… Optimists and lions. We've got, um… partners, um. Who want to see our students succeed, who are coming in with Career Tech Ed. Opportunities for our students. And there, um, the dynamic. Around… You know, Benicia needs one type of. Set of services. Dixon needs a very different one. If we can't recognize those types of differences, and if we can't plan and address, uh. For those, and our students and families are going to miss out. And I think also. On the bigger picture, if we want to develop our county. In a broader sense, if we don't pay attention to those differences, and we are looking for economic development and jobs. Career opportunities, then we will,
145um… We'll miss out there as well. Trustee Lavelle? Please share an example of a successful interagency collaboration you led or participated in at the. County level, what was your role, and what outcomes were achieved? Well, I've already talked about. On the mental health programs, and so that would be my number one. And I'm not gonna just say, hey, count that, uh, count that answer twice. Um, because that wouldn't, uh… That wouldn't quite work. So let's think about, um… other avenues. Let me… let me pull PBAS off separately. Okay, because it is, um… While it's connected to the mental health and trauma work, it's also a very different thing in that it's trying to build school-wide, district-wide cultures. And positive cultures. So, um… Ann Dixon, you know, we created the expectation that all of our schools
146were going to have PBIS teams. And that all of our teams are going to be trained. And that, um, they were going to be supported throughout implementation of. Bm programs. And that there would be monitoring. And their successes would be celebrated. And areas for growth would be addressed. I'm gonna give, um… 80% of the credit for all that happening to SCO. For their staff. We did not have the expertise. It was new to us. And so, what we saw from this ghost staff who were involved in PBIS. Whether it's, um… was not hand-holding. It was walking the path with us and making sure that we got where. Where we should have gone. Our schools became… were becoming certified. The culture of PBIS was becoming more deeply embedded. In our schools. Families, when you said PBS,
147you know, we… acronym everybody to death. But when you started saying PBAS, families… began to know that acronym right off the bat. Because their child had received. Some sort of positive… feedback, outcome… reward for being that good kid on campus, the kid who is behaving in a positive way. They help their peer, right? Up a piece of trash. Um, they were just an overall good citizen. So, the work that SCO did. Uh, with us? And to some degree, even for us, because we are so green. A critical, critical partnership, still paying dividends. Something that better not go away. Thank you. Trustee Sharp? What is your approach to working with a county board of education? How would you foster a collaborative and transparent relationship with board members? Sure. So, um, I'm fully aware that the County
148Board has a little bit of, uh. Maybe not even a little bit, but some significant differences from. School board of a school district. Um, and so I understand… I understand the basic nature of those. And that, as an elected position. Appointed, uh, in this case. That, um, the superintendent of schools. Really, it's given more authority than happens in a school district. Right? So, um… a superintendent who takes that and run is doing a disservice. Not only to that governing board, but. To the county office. Most immediately. And then… to the county programs and, uh, its role in supporting districts as well. It doesn't matter if it's this board with a different structure and relationship. Or the Dixon board that I had. Um, if we're not working together. Um, things aren't gonna work. I did see
149the joint statement on governance, that emphasis on equity. And making sure that students have access. Um, E… key, and the fact that the governance team. You folks, uh, plus the superintendent. Establish that. My sense is it's been there for a while. Um, that you established it. And that, in the meetings I've been coming to. Um, since this position opened up. And in reading plenty of materials. That… the equity line passes through everything you're doing here. Your mission, your vision. Your five priorities, your LCAP goals. Um, I don't know what I'm leaving out, but I think there's something… That I left off, but… Um, your… Your emphasis on all students. All being prepared. All being geared to be successful, the transition elements of what you're doing. Dixon Unified School District mission is something. That was a
150little sticky, but it's the avid. Mission statement. Which is about closing the achievement gap. So, there's also closing the achievement and opportunity gaps. And I believe the achievement gap is. Multi-faceted… It can be attendance. It can be in. Grades, of course, it can be in social-emotional wellness. There's a whole range of things. That we know our kids come to and have different levels of success. Um, but the, um, that opportunity gap. And it's all kids. We prepare them. Thoroughly, and that's for their success beyond us in this complex global society. I see that in different words. And for me, that makes it easy to be a partner. Trustee Cheek? Please describe your experience managing complex budgets. Including local control funding. Formula LCFF, and grants. What steps have you taken to ensure sound fiscal practices? Great,
151thank you. So I was a superintendent for 13 years, and during that time. I had, um… 5 quote-unquote, permanent chief business officials, CBOs. And 4 consultants between CBOs. If I had to learn a lot about business. Because, um, I was going through people. That's not a great, uh. Not a great paying district. And, um… new people would come in, and they'd work for a little while, and then they'd get, uh, they'd see a job that attracted them more, and paid $30,000 more dollars a year. So I would help them, uh, get into that job, and… Then go looking for, um. A consultant. So, uh, a lot of my business knowledge was developed. Because of absolute sheer necessity. And yes, we did have benefit of consultants at times. Sometimes it's almost like things would have been
152easier if we didn't have them. So, uh… The support of SCO is integral to our survival and success. Period. That's one of the most important things, one of the very most important things, I think, that a county office can do. Or its member districts. Um, we… We had a period of declining enrollment. It took us from about, um… 4,300 kids. About 2,900. Over, what, 12-ish years. Now, we're lucky we didn't go totally upside down. With that happening. And at times, we were in fiscal crisis. What we have, uh, was… fiscal oversight coming from the county office. We worked with School Services of California. Purposes, we worked with FICMAT. Fiscal crisis management and assistance. And, um… We collaborated. There's no way that we would have survived fiscally. Without, in particular, the county office support. As well,
153I was turning through CBOs. I was also turning through, um. Frontline staff. And, um, got to the point where. Board members were saying, Brian. What are you doing to these people that they… That they want to keep, uh, leaving. And unfortunately, we weren't… we weren't competitive at that time. Um, so, uh… LCFF dollars. I reclaimed my time. Isn't that what they say? Yeah. Where was I going? Oh, LCFA! So, uh, when LCFF came in and the LCAP had to be written. For our first, um… Ooh, it might have been 3 years. I was our LCAP author. I didn't have a lot of help around. Um, and it was so darn complicated and confusing when we started. Holy moly. Um, I don't think anybody… Didn't seem like anybody knew what they were doing. Right. Um… But
154we started with our money, and we started to put it where we thought. Best serve the students. We're generating those additional dollars. Over time, our LCFF budget. Reached more than $2 million. And, um, we began to write really good LCAPs. And the reason our… The first reason Arial caps were good is because we did target our actions and services. To the students, in essence, who are generating those funds. And we watched what we spent money on closely. And if it didn't fit into the goals that we had established. Then we really, really tried not to do it. That money was always there on the table. And labor groups, understandably so. We're always saying we need some of that. We're not paid well in Dixon, and weren't. Um, and we'd say we can't do that. These…
155dollars are for… those students there. Um, with the declining enrollment. With, uh, economic downturns at times. Um, we were in a precarious position, uh. On more than one instance during my time. We did, uh, Figmat. Study twice. Now, um, the exact name, but they come in. And they examine what you're doing. And they give you a score. If you're, um, if your score is too low. Then they say you're in crisis. And you can be assigned, uh. Budget advisor, or… some other outside assistance. We did one of those. And then a few years later, I think it was 3 years later, after we'd had a good CBO. And a good HR person, because it takes both. We did it, and we had moved from being. In a risk position. To being in a… moderate, medium
156kind of category. We had showed that growth. Um, training our board. Supporting our board. Around fiscal issues was critical as well. And it kind of matter, you know, in a lot of ways, it didn't matter what I and my management team. We're doing, but if the board was not informed and knowledgeable. And, um, they couldn't make decisions. Performed Budget Subcommittee. With a couple of the five board members, and, uh. Did work there, and just made a point of bringing. Cbo, or the… consulting at the time, in front of the board frequently. To, um, to share information and make sure. They knew what her status was to be able to. Implement programs. We also had. Fill any money through a bond, facility money, all the COVID money. Um, there were a lot of balls in the
157air. For a while, and we managed. In audits every year? Eventually, economic stability. There before I left… I left the district. Trustee Dean? Whatever, excuse me, what efforts have you led to improve curriculum, instruction, and compliance with California standards? How have you supported underserved populations such as foster youth, English learners, and students in alternative. Or special education programs. Nikki, two questions in one. So, we're really at 9 questions, at least, aren't we. So, um… A second thing, or another thing that I'm really proud of. That we accomplish in Dixon. Um, is avid. Avid stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination. Um, and I just told you the AVID mission, which is our mission. All students, addressing all the gaps. And really preparing them for life, uh, in a complicated world that they're gonna move into. So,
158um, many years ago. Probably 15 at least. Uh, we established the AVID Elective Program. Dixon High School. That was a class. You could have avid 9, 10, 11, and 12. And students would get the benefit of going through that. Then we added. A middle school avid. And we began to build some momentum and establish a really cooperative, collaborative. Effective relationship with the AVID Center, which comes out of Sac County office. And we decided we were going to go AVID. District-wide of each school. We'll be implementing the AVID program. Right now in Dixon, you can go into a kindergarten class. And you can see students using AVID strategies. Kindergarteners! Howard addresses instruction and systems. And culture, and collaboration. It, um… focuses the work with students on Wicker. Writing. Inquiry, collaboration, organization, reading. This became the language,
159this became the practice in the district. We brought, uh, staff to the Summer Institutes. We bounce back and forth between. San Diego for us. And a couple in San Diego… in Sacramento, excuse me. And we got as many as 80 of our certificated staff members. 45% at the time. To travel to San Diego for the Avid Summer Conference. Watching 6 schools. Meeting in Teams and Planning. Our continuation school embraced this to the degree where they've gone. Well, AVID doesn't even recommend. Have it in alternative settings. Which we didn't like. And so we did everything we could. I've got school and practices. And last I was part of the conversation, and I hope it's advanced. The avid folks were trying to figure out the way. Measure the success of implementation of. Have it in an alternative
160setting. In Prairie High School was ahead of the game. Ahead of where, um, AVID really had ever experienced. All 10 being before. So, every student, instruction, culture, organization, you name it. And every student really has to become every student. So when we talk about students from. Um, ELs, and socioeconomically disadvantaged in the foster youth, and… and others, um… you do the AVID. Rises the boat for everybody. But we also use our LCFF dollars for intervention specialists. For ELD teachers… for the wellness centers and mental health supports. Um, for parent liaisons. Other ways to bring in. Families and students and professionals to support. Our students and their learning. And your last question here is from me. What distinguishes you from the other candidates? And why do you believe you are the best fit to lead Solano
161County Office of Education at this time? Well, if we opened, uh, that question up to the community of Dixon, there'd be a whole lot of. Different kind of answers about what distinguishes me. From other people, and um… you know, a Seahawk fan, I think, is probably one of them. Um… I've been here my whole career. Right? And… I'm known for a couple of things. Of note, um… I… I know my… I know my people. So, um, the urban legend is that I knew every kid's name. I couldn't know every kid's name, but I knew a lot of kids' names. Um, and… We did a, um, a training a couple years ago, an equity training. One of the first topics they taught us about were names. How important people's names are. And that their names are
162recognized and honored. Right? And talk about a way to include. And show value for someone is… When you learn their name, and you learn it properly. And so, I've got 3 generations, and in some families, 4 generations. In Solano County, that are my kids, that are my families. I've gotten… I can go to Costco and see a Vaca High, um. Back a high family, um… graduated in 1993. Remember, that's Alan, and that's Heather. Weren't boyfriend, girlfriend then, but shortly after high school, they were those types of things, so… I've… I've got a deep, deep connection, I think. The people in Solano County. And those I don't have a connection with yet… I want to make that. That's a strength of mine, building those types of relationships and connecting with people. Um, so that's… That's a
163really, I think, important reason. I'll tell you, um, I think. My experience… Things I've done. I didn't talk about that I did HR for. A whole bunch of years, and I did pupil services, and I did… maintenance and operations. I did facility projects. Um, I'm sure there are other things I'm forgetting at this point in time. Um, can't say I did at all. Uh, because I didn't. Gosh, I did a whole bunch. And if you want to talk about a way to learn. Is you get into something you haven't done before. And, um… work hard, and you ask the right people the questions, and you. Willing to take answers and such. You can be successful. So that experience… I think is really critical. And I've, uh, you know, the two county staff who are applying.
164Uh, for this position. Um, I've known Manolo since he was a high schooler. And I know, Nicky, because we worked on. Those things that I think, um… They are, uh, great people, and also have many, many strengths. I think, um… I'm unique in the absolute full range. Of responsibilities and duties. I've had to fulfill. Um… The other… the other piece, I think, is, um… I've been an end user, mostly, of the county office. Right? And as the superintendent of schools, I'm not an end user. All of a sudden, I'm… I'm the CEO of the organization. I have some really strong ideas about ways that. Um, the county office can serve. Districts in new and, um. Perhaps better ways. Go around the county, and boards don't know what you folks do, and they don't know what
165this county office does. Go to administrative rooms? The same thing applies, and I think the… There's a need… Um, better understand… what each side does, and then be able to integrate. Higher levels than we currently do. Boards should know what they're doing. And, um, and they don't. I think being able to, um. To make that a period of growth here in these 15 months. Would be important. Um, I want to say… I have, uh. People have said something like, you know, caretaker. Or interim? Or, um, short-term or whatever. No. No. Any of those labels diminish the position and diminish the need? And a service that everyone deserves. It's a real job. Um, it should have… be treated as that real job. So any sense of temporary or anything, I think. Off base. I have one
166follow-up question. If selected for this appointment, I think you already answered this, you intend to run for the county superintend. Position in the June 2026 election, and if yes, are you familiar. With the election requirements and process for candidacy. I will proudly vote. And that's it. I only vote. And you can do your closing statement in one minute. Okay. Four seconds. Um, gosh, I appreciate the opportunity to be here tonight. You know, it's a funny deal. Here's a retired guy coming in saying he'll only do. The remainder of this term. Um, and so that's unique. Um, but I think the circumstances are unique as well. You have a retired superintendent from within the county. To, um, has really, really vast experience in terms of running a school district. Not the largest school district in the
167county. Um, but I argue that smaller districts. Are more demanding on staff. Administrative staff, because they've got more things to do. And, um, not as much help to do them. Right? So, uh, I think we're in a unique situation, and what I can bring in terms of that experience. And also, my investment. And appreciation and commitment. The Solano County, the Office of Education. Uh, the kids, families, beyond. Thank you so much. Thank you, Brian. Appreciate the chance to be with you. This is your time. Bathroom, or… Nice to see you! Are you feeling better now? I'm glad! I don't blame you. I noticed some people left over here. These are the best men. Oh, they're to kind of melt your mouth. Yes. Where are they? I'm thirsty, but I don't want to drink any water.
168That's Dr. Garrett's law worker. I never seen a dress like that. I figured you're a slow worker, the one that… now with the white sweater on. No bribes, no bribes. How you doing, Mindy? It has been a long time. And this man when I said… Well, thank you, Ms. Wanda. How are you doing? I will see you on Saturday. Yes, ma'am, thank you so much. Ginger John, Ginger Dawn, Supervisor Williams? Yeah, we get down. Thank you. We're on a bathroom break right now. Hi, Dr. Mccalla, how are you, dear? I'm everybody over waiting for Alyssa. Yeah, and then the. Oh, thank you. Thank you, though. Every day gets better, you know. I did not… I got cold looking at you, because every now and then, the air would… Because I looked at you and got
169cold. At the other room, in the conference room. Hey, our next candidate, Dr. Nikki Parr. Good evening. So happy to be here. I want to say thank you to Trustee… all the trustees to President Coleman. To all of the individuals who have taken their time. To be here this evening. I know that you can be a lot of different places, but thank you for being here to be a part of this really important process. I'm so honored to have the opportunity. The interview for this honorable position. County Superintendent of schools. Tonight, I'm going to share with you. A little bit more information about my qualifications. Expand on what has already been stated this evening. And explain how I am prepared. To serve all of Solano County in this. Very important role. Solano County is my
170home. And I am a proud product. Of the Solano County Public School System. I grew up in both Vacaville and the city of Fairfield. And the reason that I'm standing here today. Is because of all of the individuals, some of them you've heard from this evening. Who have poured into me. Over my years in this… county, and all of our different communities. I am the daughter. Jerry Gray, a retired. Chief Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force. And he spent the majority of his time. Stationed at Travis Air Force Base. So, although I am a military brat, I didn't have to do a lot of moving around. He did the moving. And I'm also the daughter of Della Gray. A retired teacher. Lifetime Educator. Who taught at Springstown Junior High in Vallejo. And Grange
171Middle School for 25 years. And I knew at an early age that I wanted to be a teacher. I wanted to be an educator. I remember. Watching my mom get up in the morning. And she was one of those glamorous teachers who wore the heels. You all know, if you know my mom, you know. Uh, makeup, hair, nails, everything just perfect. And always exuded just joy of teaching, of being a teacher. And so I think around the age of 4 or 5, I wanted to be a teacher. And, uh, unfortunately for my two younger sisters, they were my… my students. I was fortunate. To be educated by some of the most phenomenal. Teachers in this county. Starting off with Mrs. Gigi Grant. My third grade teacher at H. Gwen Richardson. She made every student feel
172seen, heard, supported. Mrs. Grant would attend my piano recitals in the evening. She would attend my performances. She made sure that she let me know that I was a special individual. And the fact that she would take that time out showed me this is the type of teacher that I want to be. Going on to middle school, Mrs. Carolyn McClellan. And Mrs. Claire Borges, my English and History teachers at Grange Middle School. Taught me that… If you work hard, you can achieve anything. They made learning fun. I wanted to go to their class. I enjoyed hearing about all of the different. Um, challenging writing. History, understanding really complex, uh. Matter in a way that was so engaging. And my teachers at Fairfield. High school. Mrs. Lori Vaughn, my yearbook teacher, who… Instilled in me the
173desire. To be a creative writer. And a communicator and storyteller. And Mr. Peter Gelke. My physics teacher, who I had an opportunity to see while I was on a Williams visit a few years ago. Who made me excited about physics, a subject that I really was not all that interested in. But it's the power of educators. That we're committed to me and committed to all the students that brought me here. As you've already heard, I have a bachelor's degree in history. A master's degree in elementary education, I was supposed to have been an English and History teacher, just like my mother. I, however, while I was in my master's program, started working. In a special education program, alternative education. For students with behavioral health needs. So although this evening you've heard a whole lot about
174the work that I do. Related to mental health. At the core, I am a teacher. I was trained to be a teacher. I have taught for a number of years, and at the root of everything that I do is making sure that I remove barriers and work with community to remove those barriers. So that students can learn. I completed an education specialist degree when I went into leadership from the George Washington University. Because I quickly realized at 28, when I was tapped on the shoulder to become a leader, that I needed to learn how to work with adults. It's different than children. And in 2005. My husband and I moved back from Virginia, so I did leave the state for 10 years to go to school. But I came back in 2005 because I wanted
175to start a family, and I wanted to be back home. And now my husband and I have 3 teenage sons who attend public schools in Solano County. My journey, my professional journey, started. At Vacaville Unified, where I… was for 8 years. I served as a site principal. For an alternative school, a community day school. Serving secondary-age students. And I also served as a… Director of Student Services. And in 2014, I joined the team here at the Solano County Office of Education. And as you've heard, started off as a program manager with 4 staff, and. And worked with this board and with our superintendent. To expand those services through increasing the number of staff that we had. The number of resources that we were able to bring. I was promoted to Director, Senior Director. And oversaw
176all of our juvenile court and community schools. Wrote the LCAP. I used to come before you all back in those days and present what was developed as a part of a larger collaborative. And also worked to identify. Resources that we could bring here to Solano County. One of the first things that I learned in this role at the county level is that Solano County receives so few resources compared to other Bay Area counties. And one of the best things that I heard from, um. One of my colleagues at the California Department of Education is that no one is coming to save you. You, as the leader, have to come into that role and bring resources. To bear, to support. Your own communities. I… bring to this role a deep commitment. For this community, for the
177students, families, educators. The entire county. And my personal and professional experiences prepared me to lead. With empathy, vision, and a strong belief. And the transformative power. Of education. I'm open to any questions that you may have before that. I do want to mention to the board that because I spent time in Virginia and was originally licensed. I get a special, um… credential process. So, with the California teacher credentialing Department. I don't get to go online and pay the $55, and then move… or the $100 and move forward. I actually have to complete a paper application. And that's for any individual who has an original license or credential from another state. So I've already submitted that. They've cashed the check. And according to Paul Deal, I am on a temporary. Process until we get the final
178notification, but I have been credentialed. In California since 2005. Thank you. Uh, I'm gonna ask you the first question. Why are you interested in serving as the Solano County Superintendent of Schools? Please describe your most recent leadership role and how it has prepared you for this position. Well… I want to continue to lead and support this county. I truly care. About what happens here. I want to make sure that in Solano County. Just by the fact that the young person grows up here, that they have access to the highest. And most, um… unique and individualized educational, um. That they can. And it's going to require us to do different things. One of the things that I see as a leader is, when I look at the data dashboard. The same students are not performing. At
179the levels that we want them to perform. So we know that we have to do things different, and the one thing that I am certain of. Is that we have all the talent. And the knowledge here in this county. We just need to continue. To come together as a professional learning community and share those resources, share the knowledge. And do it in a way. Where we lift every community up and every school up. So some of the more recent experience that I have as a Senior Director. Of Student Services and Educational Options. Is that the state of California has now mandated. Things have changed for county offices of education. They mandated that we. At SCO lead school-based mental health services. That we lead… all of the different… new legislation. Implemented in our schools around expanding,
180enhancing. The mental health services, also billing. We are now billing for those services, and I'm happy to say. That we at Solano County Office of Education were one of four in the state. To successfully bill. We've cracked that code, and it wasn't easy. So one of the things that I know that I bring to the table is I love reading policy. I will admit, I love doing the research around. Understanding how. The intent behind. Policy, but most importantly, I start thinking about who we need to bring to the table to address the needs and come up. With strategies that are unique for Solano to address our unique population. Trustee Dunn? Describe your experience working within or in partnership with the County Office of Education or regional… or regional service provider. How did you contribute to
181organizational goals or initiatives? Can you repeat that for me again? Describe your experience working within or in partnership with the County Office of Education or regional service provider. How did you contribute to organizational goals or initiatives? As a regional service provider. One of the background, um. Experiences that I had was serving as. The School Attendance Review Board Chair for Vacaville Unified. And in that role, I had to… work with the team and lead them in determining why we had young people that were not being successful. And bringing in community resources, such as the probation department. Health and Human Services, and look at how each one of our organizations have identified our goals. Where do we have shared goals, and how are we going to come together. And work together to address the needs in the
182community. And then, most importantly, how are we going to measure that? Because there's a lot of great work that goes on, but if we don't ever measure it. And we don't ever publicize that. Then that's an issue. And what I've found is that if we bring community in. Early on, educate them and get their input. They should be included in our goal setting. So, what I believe in is shared leadership, I believe in making sure that every individual. On the team. Has the equal opportunity to express what their concerns are. To develop these goals together, and then develop how we're going to. Implement whatever it is that we've developed together. Thank you, Trustee Cohen-Thompson? What is your understanding of the unique educational, social, and economic. Context of Solano County. And how would that knowledge. Inform
183your leadership. Approach. Well, one of the things that I believe is that. You have to be in space with. All of the different individuals, the community members, so that you can better understand what the true needs are. I know that I have my own lens, and I have my own experiences, but we need to make sure that. Leaders are in spaces where we're truly understanding what the root cause is of some of our challenges. And… what I see is. An opportunity here. A great opportunity. To go a little bit further. And to make sure that… We are all… working together. Can you repeat that question? Make sure I got it on. Alright, what is your understanding of the unique educational, social. And economic context. Of Solano County, and how would that knowledge. Inform your leadership
184approach. Okay. Given that knowledge, your leadership approach. So what I know is that we are one of the most diverse counties in the nation. Both racially, economically. And that each… individual community. Has, at its core, a desire to make sure that all children are educated. Am able to reach their fullest potential. And so how we approach that is by making sure that we have all of those community members at the table. And in meaningful positions to be able to contribute. I view my role as a convener. I have my own knowledge, I have my own experiences, I have my own children in public schools right now, but I can't speak for the entire community. I cannot speak for… such a diverse and vast. Group of unique individuals. We are a diverse community. We need to
185make sure that we are providing that education so that we can. Level the playing field for individuals so that. We are building our community strong with. Educated community members. That are ready to compete at the highest levels, that are ready to be innovative. Perhaps be the next entrepreneur. But we need to continue to build our communities up so that we don't have. Some of the outcomes that we have. I know, and you all see. That we have a problem with homelessness. We have a problem with the number of foster youth. And what those youth look like in the community. And so we need to come together. Continue to support one another in all of our organizations, because as I had stated. Solano County doesn't receive the same philanthropic giving that other counties receive. It doesn't
186receive the same resources that every county… other Bay Area county receives, and so we do need to work together to build that ecosystem of support. To address our diverse needs in the community. And in order to do that, I know the county superintendent needs to be in multiple spaces, whether it's with the Chamber of Commerce. To find out what's going on with the economic. Outlook in Solano County. Looking at our education data, and then bringing in all of our community partners. Thank you. Trustee LaBelle. Please share an example of a successful interagency collaboration you led or participated in. At the county level, what was your role, and what outcomes were achieved? So I would want to lift up a couple of different things. Number one is the inc… implementation of the 47 school-based wellness centers,
187because that was a collaborative between. Behavioral health, public health. Child welfare, educators, and also it provided an opportunity for us to get really creative with. How we approached grant writing. So that it's… The motto that I, um, ascribe to is that we're all coming to the table with. Um, putting our resources on the table and our hands behind our back. How are we going to work together? How are we going to utilize the resources that we currently have? To write for some of these really, um, impressive grants that can change our community. And so, with 47 wellness centers, we average about. 40,000 Wellness Center visits, last count. Per year. We support 4,000 to 5,000 students. Each year, who visit those wellness centers to receive different services. Also, one of the most important things that we
188were able to do as a collaborative. Is establish a mobile crisis program. We're the only ones in the state that have anything like that. What I was able to do is, through listening to the community. Listening to my partners at Behavioral Health, we determined we are overutilizing our school resource officers. To respond when young people are in a mental health crisis. And we didn't have a really great system to. Even identify what the… true number of calls were, and what the true need was. And so we were able to work with the police department. We got really familiar with the police chiefs and their processes. And they expressed the desire that they are not equipped, and they do not want to be in the role. Of responding to a young person who is homicidal or
189suicidal. And so we got to work with writing a grant, and I know that one of my colleagues came and. And spoke about that, but we were… She talked about the 7, 8 o'clock in the evening calls. When you are writing for competitive grants, you already have to have those relationships built, because. Those grants come, and you have 45 days to respond and get all your stuff turned in. And so, because… be at the Solano County Office of Education have developed these strong relationships. We were able to go in right for that grant that was highly competitive. 5 in the state received that funding. And we were able to launch our mobile crisis. We wrote that grant based on the knowledge. That we had at that time, that we would have 45 to 60 calls
190per year. And that first year, we had 252. At this point, we have served over a thousand students in that particular program. Diverting them, 75% of those young people are diverted from the hospital system. So one of the things that I'm really interested in now is looking at what does that mean economically for our county? Because if those children are not… if they're able to be safety… created a safety plan for them, and they're able to remain at home, they're not going to the emergency room. They're not going to a hospital setting. Um, they're in school, they're able to be provided the wraparound support so that that next day, they can flow into a wellness center. And get services and supports, and be maintained and supported in the community and in their home. So, once
191again. Over a thousand students being served in the past four years. Um, and the other collaborative. Um, that I have been a part of for years is interagency. So we meet weekly. A Tuesday? Child welfare, behavioral health. Education, probation. And we look at what the needs of. Are most vulnerable. At Promise students are, and we create. Plans. To support those individual students. Thank you. Trustee Sharp? Uh, what is your approach to working with the County Board of Education, and how would you foster a collaborative and transparent relationship with board members? Relationships. That's first and foremost. One of the best things that I did… was… become… the Fairfield Sassoon Trustee. For Area 7, because it taught me a whole different… way of… operating between the superintendent and. The board. And although I know it's not the
192same. Right? An elected position versus… Appointed by the board. But one of the things that I would love to see is weekly or monthly. Trainings, special board meetings, just opportunities to get to know one another. That's one of the things that I appreciate, being a part of that. The board, um, for Fairfield Sassoon is that we do regularly meet with the. Superintendent. Um, also… attending events together. Attending conferences together, learning together. When I look across this board, we have an attorney. Business owner, another business owner. Librarian, retired probation. A current teacher? Mom, supporter. And an individual who works very closely with Solano County. And all of the experiences that you have, that collective wisdom. I would want to harness that. And make sure that you have voices in what's happening as well. So, things like
193ensuring that you know who's being hired. And, um, being introduced to individuals who are doing specific work. Lifting up what's happening in the community. I would love to see. Some of these wonderful community, um, non… profits that we've been working with also come to the board and present on some of the great work that we're doing. So that you're aware, and that we can also get your feedback. Thank you. Trustee Cheek? Please describe your experience managing complex budgets. Including local control formula, LCFF. And grants. What steps have you taken to ensure sound fiscal practices? Well, first, I want to lift up the fact that we have a phenomenal. Business department. That come to these meetings and present really complex. Um… very complex budgets. In ways that we can all understand. And so I would want
194to continue to support. Relationship, and… work in partnership with them. One of the things that I had experienced doing is writing that local control accountability plan and getting very. Comfortable with the LCFF, as comfortable as one can be. Um, especially in those early years, and I know Trustee Dean had talked about all of the changes that occurred. So I was able to weather that first round of. Every year, there was something new. Um, and also, over the past… several years, I brought in, um, with my team and with the collaboration I've led. To bringing in over $30 million in… grants, and… That provides an opportunity to have a lens around. Looking at what the requirements of the grant are, what our needs are, and aligning them with the budget. And ensuring that we stay within
195that budget, because… you have to stay within your budget. But I would be prioritizing in all the work that I do, the educators, the teachers. We have to make sure that at the core, we are protecting all of the educators, paraprofessionals. That are providing the direct service to students. And that might require. Taking an inventory of what's working and what's not working. What are our actual outcomes? What's the data showing? And so that's part of that process of the relationship building with the board as well, is making sure that you all see the data, the good, the bad, and. In between, and have an opportunity to ask good questions that help to lead. To solutions, because you are all our partners in this work. Thank you. Uh, Trustee Dean. Thank you. What efforts have you
196led? To improve curriculum, instruction, and compliance with California standards. How have you supported underserved populations such as foster youth. English learners and students in alternative or special education programs. I'll start with the second part of that question. That has been a large part of my entire, um. Experience has been working with our students in foster care. Our students that are unhoused and developing programs that support them. First and foremost, also training educators on strategies. How do you keep those students engaged? How are we going to make sure that their basic needs are met so that they can sit and get the information that they need? And be able to make progress. Um, and also with students who. Just have… different needs. Maybe they have an IEP, maybe they have a 504 plan, maybe they don't
197have any of that. But maybe they just need some different. Ways and strategies for teachers to teach. So the one thing that I am very excited about is all the brain research that's out there now about how students learn, how. Do students learn to read? That's information that I didn't have as a teacher when I was in the classroom, and it's readily at our hands right now, and so I want to make sure that we are. Able to continue to lift that up. So, things like developing a… I led the writing of a. Csec, commercially sexually exploited Children. Plan for Solano County. How are we going to identify young people who are being trafficked? How do we educate them? And so, we get out to schools every year, and we train and coach teachers on
198strategies to best support those young people. And identify them and prevent them from going into. Um, that world. And to protect all of our students and the community. Um, I've also supported. The co-location. We actually have staff members that are co-located at Child Welfare. We have… going back to we have to be in those spaces. And so, continuing to lead and lift that up in those relationships, making sure that we keep. Our, um, desk at Child Welfare, and that we keep those lines of communication open. So that we can best serve those students. Um, and then the first part of the question, could you repeat that? Certainly. What efforts have you led to improve curriculum, instruction, and compliance with California standards? Okay, so as a teacher. Familiar with the California standards. Very familiar with instructional…
199standards and expectations. What I want to see more of is us. Having a uniform system of looking at our… the way that we're delivering differentiated assistance. Because, as I stated, when I look at those. Reports, the data dashboard, and I see that we are not moving the needle for students. In those specific categories, I know that we need to make some changes and do things differently. And so that's what I would be… promoting is, let's bring in the latest research. Let's come together, and let's lift up the work that is. Going really well in this county. We have some instructors that are doing some phenomenal work. I want to make sure that I leave space and encourage those individuals. To teach our own community members. Um, and harness the… power that we have already in
200our county. Thank you. Yeah, and the last question comes from me. What distinguishes you. From the other candidates. And why do you believe you're the best fit to lead Solano County Office of Education at this time? As an individual who served in a. Director role in the county. I know the importance. That a county office of education can have. So one quick story, um, when I was in Vacaville. During the recession, the Great Recession. And everything was being cut, and programs were cut. I was… ask to reach out to the County Office of Education to give back our after-school education and safety grant, because we just couldn't manage it. And when I outreached. I was able to get an individual to come out to my office. Who was an expert. A thought partner, but an
201expert, and guided us through the process of, no, you don't need to get rid of them, you don't need to close this program. And this… and give this money back. Here's some tangible things that you can do. And I followed those instructions. And we were able to maintain that program. And it's in existence today. At four elementary schools serving 1,000 students each year. So making sure that those young people are not going home to. An empty home, but they're actually being served. In their community, in their school. Being provided a warm meal and enrichment, and homework help. And so that, for me. In 2014, when there was a position that was open here. That's why I left a director position took a huge pay cut. To come and work here, and. Work with Lisette, because
202I saw the power. Of the County Office of Education that is well-run, that has individuals. Who are experts in the area that they are tasked. To lead. And that's what I want to do, is to continue to tap the talent that we have here in this county. To make sure that individuals who are sent out on our behalf, as the County Office of Education. Are able to make. The type of connections and build that type of rapport where we are changing the lives of children. So I want to see results. And so that was one of… that was the main reason why I made the decision to. To come to the county office 11 years ago. And to pursue this… role and expand this role so that we can be the individual organization. That provides
203the districts the resources that they need. So that they can continue to do the hard work that they do. And that we can be a partner in solving some of the most challenging problems in our. Our community. I know that we can do it together. And in terms of experience and what sets me apart, is my commitment. To leading with. Heart, leading with humility. And integrity. And being vulnerable, stepping into spaces where, you know, I didn't know a whole lot about behavioral health. I'm not a clinician. But having the background, the knowledge, the education to be able to step into any of these spaces. And to partner. To lift up large-scale and highly successful. Programs in our county. And the last follow-up question, if elected to this… if selected for this appointment. Do you intend
204to run for the county superintendent position in the June 2026 election? If yes, are you familiar with the election requirements and process for Canada? I am very familiar, because I just ran a campaign a year ago. Um, yes, I do plan. I have already opened my committee. I have already started the process of endorsements. And fundraising, and all of the things that are a part of. Campaigning, and I actually enjoy it, so I look forward to it. Do you have a closing statement? Yes. Minute and 28 seconds. Okay. I have great respect for all of our dedicated staff. Whether in the classroom, within SCO departments, or support services, and I'm committed. It's a continuing to honor and collaborate with our community partners who have been integral. To the work that we do. I'm inspired by
205the progress that has already been made in the Solano County Office of Ed. And deeply excited about the opportunity to work alongside this exceptional team. Should I be selected? I will lead with humility, courage, and a deep sense of service to the Solano County students. Families and staff and community members. Once again, thank you for your time. Your thoughtful questions and unwavering commitment. To this process. I appreciate each one of you. And look forward to becoming the next. County superintendent of Schools. Thank you. Thank you. We're halfway. Sorry. Next up, Manolo Garcia. You have, you know, 10 minutes till you do your opening and closing together, so… Perfect. That's your time. And then we have 8 questions for you. Right, thank you very much. Um… Good evening, President Coleman. Vice President Sharp, distinguished members of
206the board. Colleagues and members of the public. My name is Manila Garcia. Um, proud son of the late Diego Garcia, whose memory lives. With me each and every day. Um… Maria Garcia, um, who… breast cancer survivor. And a pillar of strength in my life. I am the husband, uh, to the most remarkable, um. Human being that I have ever met. My wife, Shelly, uh, we are… we have four, uh, amazing children. Jesse Diego, Stella… Lorenzo and Sophie. To understand who Manila Garcia is, the candidate for county superintendent of Schools. Um… I feel I need to tell you what my origin story is. Because it has shaped who I am, uh, both personally and professionally. I am a lifelong Solano County resident. Um… And… son of immigrants. Who came to this country with my older brother,
207um… In search of a better life, the quintessential. Immigrant story. Um, my parents, uh, did respectable work. Uh, they were, um. Agricultural workers. They did custodial work. Work that they could perform through sweat and perseverance. Despite their lack of education. Uh, despite their… despite their lack of training. And, um… In spite of their inability to speak English. Um… They would come to this country in search of opportunities that they themselves didn't have. Uh, and fundamental to those was an education. Um, I… they came with my brother, I wouldn't be born till, um, many years later. Um, an expected addition to the family, if you will. Um, and it was, um… Through watching their hard work. Um, the challenges that they encountered. Um, that I learned some life lessons, um… Unbeknownst to them, they taught me
208what. Part of work, looks like. And they instilled in me the importance of an education. My elementary years were not easy. Um, I started, um, kindergarten. Not speaking English, so I had the challenge of learning language and content simultaneously. As well as, um, had the challenge during that critical, uh, kindergarten year of losing my hearing. And, um, it was a neighbor calling my name over the fence. Countless times, and my lack of responding. Um, that led them to talk to my parents and make them aware that something wasn't right. And so, that's how my parents discovered my hearing loss, and. Unfortunately, it wasn't until I'd. Kind of made my way through. A significant amount of my kindergarten year. Uh, but thankfully, it was corrected. Um… my education, my elementary years in school. Um, we're… Um,
209we're challenging. I would be, um, one of just a few. English learners at the time in my school at that. Period of time, uh, that would be pulled out and, um… go to a classroom where the bilingual teacher would give us, um, English language. Instruction, and so she helped to develop our English skills. Um, that was the level of support at the time for students like myself. Uh, a far cry from the number of English learners we now have in the state of California. Approximately a million and 20% of the student population. Designated as English learners. Uh, but we were a small group. I am thankful. And grateful for Ms. Luna. My bilingual teacher. She provided, uh, students like myself with a classroom environment. Uh, that we felt safe, supported. Um, whereas we didn't feel
210a part of. The rest of the, um… school population. Uh, we felt safe there, like we belonged. We didn't need to be ashamed of the language we spoke. Where we came from, or asking the questions that. We needed to answer it. Um, so… I know what it's like to… to struggle. I know what it's like to be confronted with hurdles out of the gate. Um. And… for sake of time, I'm going to skip forward. To more uplifting chapters, um. In my life, I promise there are those as well. Upon graduating from Vacaville High School, I attended UC Davis, where I earned a Bachelor of. Of Science and Bachelor of Arts degree in neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, and Spanish Literature. It was during my freshman year, um… at UC Davis that I applied for a student-run
211clinic. Um, Clinic at the fati. At the Pathy means healer in the Nawada language of the Aztecs. And it was, um, on Saturday mornings. That a small but determined group of us undergraduates, medical students, and physicians. We call it preceptors, would go from travel from Davis to the Alkali Flats, um. Neighborhood of downtown Sacramento. And provide free, um… medical services to. Um, the uninsured. And sometimes unhoused population of the area. Uc Davis gave me a world-class education, but it was clinica. Um, that first showed me my why. Um, in the patients that we served. I saw my parents, I saw my grandparents. I saw, um, my family. Reflected in them. Individuals that needed support. Like, the support I provided my… parents, when I would accompany them on, um, to doctor's appointments to translate for them.
212So, when I… graduated, um, from UC Davis, I had a decision to make. Do I, um, pursue something in a health-related field. Do I, um… pursue something in a science-related field, or do something completely different. Um, obviously, I didn't, uh, pursue a healthcare-related field or science-related field. Instead, my journey led me to a first and second grade. Combination, uh, structured English Immersion Classroom. I fell in love with teaching. I fell in love with, um… the students that were in front of me. I… in that. Place in the classroom, I found, where. My why, the intersection of my why. Um, which was to be of service to others. And what my parents had instilled is important to me. Which was an education. And so, that's where my education journey began. Um. My resume gives you a
213brief description of the positions I've held, it gives you a chronology of. Um, of those positions as well. English Learner Coordinator. Assistant principal, and then principal of Wagner Elementary School for 4 years in the winter training. School district. Then I was, um… went back home, uh, to Vacaville, and was principal of Markham Elementary. Uh, for 9 years. It was after, uh, being principal at Markham. Uh, that I wrote the charter petition for the Uranus Kimmy Charter Academy. And, uh, in its inaugural year, I was, uh, its principal. Before then, um, becoming director of human resources in the Vacaville Unified School District for. 6 years, been assistant superintendent in Vacaville. And then, before finally joining the Solano County Office of Education. Where I'm in my current position as Associate Superintendent of Human Resources. And educator effectiveness.
214The point of, um, telling you. The chronology of my career is this. It's a steady chronology. It's… it's consistent. Um, I have. Incrementally increased, um, the responsibility. And leadership, um, in the… in the roles that I've subsequently held. And, most importantly. Those in leadership roles. That had, um, the ability. To promote me or not. Um… We're very intimately aware of my abilities. Um, my leadership abilities, my skills. And they chose to promote me. And I think that, um… That speaks volumes to who I am professionally. My skill set, my leadership. And, uh, what I would bring to the position of. Solano County Superintendent of Schools. Thank you for allowing me to give you some insight. Into, um, my story. That concludes my introduction. Thank you. Uh, we're gonna ask each one of us will ask
215you a question. I'm going first. Why are you interested in serving as a Solano County Superintendent of Schools? Please describe your most recent leadership role and how it has prepared you for this position. The reason that, um… I want to be Solano County Superintendent of Schools. Is that I have a deep passion for equity. And serving underserved. Youth. That is… foundational to the work that we do here at the Solano County Office of Ed. From our community school. To Evergreen Academy at the Juvenile Detention Facility. To our special ed population. I know what it's like to struggle. My… my story, my background has uniquely. Prepared me, uh, to be of service to others. Um, my leadership style is that. It's service leadership. Um, and it's not just because I'm… I'm a Libra, and fairness is…
216ingrained in me. Um, it's essential to everything I do. Um, my most recent position is… Um, the one I just… spoke about Associate Superintendent of Human Resources and Educator Effectiveness. And in this role, um, I have the privilege of working with the superintendent. And, um… my fellow cabinet members. To make decisions that directly impact. Our mission and vision. To ensure that students learn, grow, and thrive. And achieve lifelong success. I also, um… lead our, uh, labor law consortium. Which is a group of… regional, um… human resources professionals. Um, from Sonoma County. Napa County, all of our school districts within Solano County and Yolo County. We focus on… I co-facilitate it with our legal counsel, Namita Brown. We focus on relevant issues that are impacting students. Um, as a result of labor negotiations. Um, proposed legislation.
217Um, approved legislation. Um, and, um… friends in labor negotiations. We're a collaborative group, and I'm honored to be able to facilitate that. Um, to help promote the success of our students in our county. Um, I'm also, um, the facilitator of our cross-organizational. Team that works with, um. Our student services, ed services. Um, our special education. Our information services and technology team. Um, and… and our fiscal team. To ensure that SCO's resources. Are dedicated to promoting. Um, the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative. And the fee schedule billing. Um, ensuring that all of our resources, um. Are devoted to, uh, ensuring that we're building the capacity of our school district. To serve their students, um. Their students' mental health needs. Um, so that is a… group that meets weekly, and we talk about what's new. What's changed,
218because often things. Are changing, uh, since this is a. Relatively new, uh, initiative, and. We are part of the Cohort 1 implementation. Um, I also, um… have been a team member. On the district and school's district and school support team. Um, to collaborate with Vallejo City Unified School District's administrative team. And the, um, California Center for, um. Educational excellence, to continue the work of continuous improvement. To support the achievement of Vallejo students. Um, so those are in some of the ways in which. My current role as a supported student achievement, and. Thank you. Trustee Dunn? Describe your experience working within or in partnership with a County Office of Education or Regional Service Provider. How did you contribute to organizational goals or initiatives? So… I have, um… worked in my capacity, um, as. Principle of Markham
219Elementary School. With various, um… providers and agencies. Um, I have worked with First Five Solano. Um, you know, school like Markham Elementary with so many underserved students. Um, we, um, received a grant. Um, to provide. School readiness services for our students. We staffed it. We worked in collaboration with our office. Um, to, um, support families, um. With children that were either. Um… well, families that were soon to be. Markham Timberwolf families, or students, um, families that would become Markham Timberwolves. Families. Um… I have, um… I have also worked with the Solano Transportation Authority, another agency. Um, with, um, Safe Routes to Schools. I've worked with, um… One of the… one of the, I think, most critical. Partners that I work with here at the Solano County Office of Education. Are our labor partners. Um, without
220their support. Um, we could not, uh, operate the programs that we have. And so, um, my role in that is I'm the chief negotiator. So I work, uh, day in and day out. To ensure that our collective bargaining agreement language. Is consistent, um… with, um… our goals as an organization. I've also, um… recently worked with our special education. Administration. Um… We received Prop 28 funds, arts, music, and Instructional Block Grant funds. And we had a challenge with those, uh, in terms of. Um, the funds were, um… Not very plentiful, so they were limited. Our special education students have very specialized needs, so it's not as easy as just hiring an art teacher to provide that instruction. Um, and we have some geographic challenges. So, um, we partnered together, worked together, um, to create. A system
221of delivery that was going to provide art education that was appropriate for our special education students. Steve Cohen-Thompson? What is your understanding of the unique educational, social, and economic context of Solano County? And how would that knowledge inform. Your leadership approach. Well, Solano County is, um… One of the most diverse counties, um. In the nation. Um… economically, um, we have quite a bit of diversity. Uh, from east to west in our various cities. And so, I think when we look at… when we talk about. The economics of our county, we need to. Um, we need to recognize that they are diverse. They're diverse with, and… our different districts. In cities, and therefore, um. You know, in terms of an… from an equity lens. We need to ensure that, um. Our work with our districts is
222not going to be the same. Um, the needs are going to be different as a result. Um, certain communities are going to have. More underserved, uh, student populations. We need to be concerned with, um, and we need to… Um, look closely. At how we can best meet their needs. Trustee LaBelle? Thank you. Please share an example of a successful interagency collaboration you led or participated in at the county level. What was your role, and what outcomes were achieved? Um… So, in my role as, um… Associate Superintendent of Human Resources. Um, one interagency. Goal, or, um, that I can… I'd like to share with you. Um… was during this past negotiation cycle. Um. We were negotiating with one of our labor partners, and they had made a proposal that, uh. On the surface seemed, um… Like,
223it wasn't very complex, not very multifaceted. But as we started to have a discussion. We realized that it was certainly more faceted than originally thought. Um, this was a labor partner that we hadn't engaged in interest-based bargaining with. So we had basically done positional bargaining with this group. So, um… I had… I took a little risk. Uh, and I, um, proposed that. I can lead this team. Through the IVB process, the interest-based process. Um, and… The problem with that, or the risk was that. Um, if it failed, um, this team might never. Consider the interest-based bargaining approach, um, ever again. If I was successful. Um, then… There might be hope for that in the future. And we were, um… it could end. Our negotiations around this, um. Collective bargaining agreement language. Um, the regional rep
224was not a big fan of IBB. Um, so she said, um, I'll defer to the team. And, um, so they took a caucus. And when they return, they… agreed to, um, entertain my idea of, uh. Pursuing, um, negotiating language around, through the IBV process. Um, and I think what that speaks to is… relationships and trust. And that's what, um, I think that. That highlights. Um… Another interagency, uh, example. Is… I, um, as in my role, I was, uh, I worked with the. California Department of Healthcare Access and Information. Uh, to develop, um, sample job descriptions for school districts and county offices. Throughout the state of California, uh, to use. To augment, um, their mental health. Um, personnel. Um, these are non-clinical positions. Um, that focus more on wellness and. Promotion and education, crisis referral. But
225nonetheless, they add to. The ecosystem of mental health services that we provide in our school districts. And, uh, I was one of just a handful of human resources professionals. I got to collaborate with, uh. Hki, as well as, um. Um, another county office. Trustee Sharp. What is your approach to working with the County Board of Education? And how would you foster a collaborative and transparent relationship with board members? Um, great question. Um, throughout my career, um, relationships have been critical. It's… it's, uh, we can't get any work done, uh, without relationships, and. As I think, uh, one of the trustees had pointed out. School district, and even… county office, budgets are 80% to 85%. Personnel. So… We have to get things done through people. And it's no different working with the board. Um, my goal,
226uh, would be to. Um, I don't have the standing history that the current superintendent has in terms of. Her relationships with all of you. Um, where she has fostered those throughout the years. So. I would be starting from, um… a different place. But that would be my goal. I'd like to know what, um, your goals are. They have to be very similar to those that the county superintendent would have. So, I'd like to kind of understand what those are, and then I'd like to work collaboratively with, um. The board to ensure that. Um, you know, we're working together. Um, we're gonna get more done collaboratively. Um, than we are, um… not working together. And that just… we need to start, um, in a place of understanding. And, um, I'd like to get there with this
227board. And with each of you, and collectively. Uh, to support. Your goals. Trustee Cheek? Please describe your experience managing complex budgets, including local. Control funding formula, LCFF. And grants. What steps have you taken to ensure sound fiscal practices? Well, I've had quite a bit of, uh, experience with, um. Budgets, uh, both at the district level and, um. Um, at the county level. Um, in the school districts that I worked in. Well, first of all, LCFF, the local control funding formula. Um, when it, uh, initially was signed into law by Governor Brown. Um, applauded it. I have a lot of experience in. Uh, working in Title I schools. With large categorical budgets. Um, I understand the complexity, the, um… diversity in reporting and. And, um, the burden that that places on educational systems. Um, so when
228Governor Brown enacted the law in LCFF. Great, I applauded it. We were going to eliminate the Marriott. Of, uh, categorical programs and consolidate it into one reporting system, the. Lcap. Um… So, in terms of budgets, um, again, I led for 9 years, um. I was principal of two at one schools, the largest being Markham Elementary, 900 students. 70%, um, qualified for free and reduced price meals. 50% almost were English learners, so… very familiar with a multi-million dollar, uh, budget, uh, to staff a school like that. And… Um, categorical budgets of… Approximately half a million. Predominantly Title I, Title III, because those are the students, uh. Populations that generated the funds. But other state categoricals as well. At Bernie's Kimmy Charter Academy. That was about the time that… of the inception of the LCFF. And, um,
229so I… develop the LCAP, um, in Ernest Kimmy's inaugural year. Um, and, um, that was… a great process. I was already somewhat familiar with developing, um. School plans for, um, SIPSAs. Um, so, um, I was already familiar with reporting. Categorical funding, uh, and its purpose, um. Conducting needs assessments, um. The LCAP was great, because now we… We had, um, to quantify whether or not, uh, we were being successful. With how we were directing funds. And to what programs, what services we were providing. So, it wasn't a big leap. Um, and… you know, that's my experience. I wrote the… LCAP, along with, um, you know, the shareholder, along with shareholder input. Um, at Ernest Kimmy, and… From writing the charter petition to. Um, you know, writing its first LCAP. There were changes we made. Uh, due
230to data that we collected from our students. Um, due to shareholder input that was shared. Uh, to support the diversity of learners that we have. Uh, we had, of course, English learners. Students from Losios SES. Homes. We had justice-involved youth. Students that were credit deficient. So, a lot of different needs that we had to address in that LCAP. Thank you, Trustee Dean? Thank you. What efforts have you led? To improve curriculum, instruction, and compliance with California standards. How have you supported underserved populations, such as foster youth, English learners. And students in alternative or special education programs. Um, great question. 13 minutes. Um… So, at all the Title I schools that I, um. That I served at, as well as Ernest Kimme. Um, I have… I have been the instructional leader of the school. That is
231what the principalship is. Um, when I arrived at, um, well. At Wagner Elementary, um, the first Title I school that I worked at for. Um, we didn't have a systematic. Um, responds to intervention program. So, at the time, um… there was an Excel Institute, uh, out of the Hesperia Unified School District. And, um, at the time, it was recognized by the California Department of Education as a model. Response to Intervention Program. I work with consultants from Hespera Unified. To implement that model at Wagner Elementary. When I moved to Markham Elementary School. Um, again, we needed to simultaneously. Implement a systematic. Response to intervention program, because we were hemorrhaging students. This is what I mean by that. Um… Our first, uh, our great initial first teaching are what we called. Or give, right? Cute acronym. This
232was the core instruction. This was the… the… Our first attempt at teaching content standards to students. You only have one opportunity to learn second grade standards. That's in second grade. So we need to make sure, and you only have one opportunity to learn third grade standards, in third grade. So we had to make sure. That our first good, um, our great initial first teaching. Was solid. Because there's not a response to intervention program in the world. Um, if you're hemorrhaging students and they're not learning, that core instruction, those core standards. There's not enough resources in the world at Tier 2 and Tier 3. To support those students. So we had to focus on. Great initial first teaching. So, we did that. By implementing professional learning communities. And, um, this was early on in those efforts,
233um. To implement professional learning communities at a school, or that umbrella. So, basically what that means is we were trying to implement effective teams. Right? Teams that were data-driven. Teams that were looking at assessments, and. Who was… who was not learning? Those are the questions that we were asking. And then, how are we going to help them to achieve grade-level standards? Um, you know, what could we do with our core instruction? But then, what services, then, can we provide at Tier 2 and Tier 3 to support them? So we had to change our master schedule. We had to make sure that, um. The personnel that we had. Uh, that we funded with those, um. Those categorical funds. Um, could be deployed. To support grade levels. And so, we had distinct. Response to intervention times in
234our master schedule built in. Also, for special education students. Uh, special education students have the right not only to the services spelled out in their IEP. But they have the right to services, um. That the school provides to its general education program. So, we ensure it and we align systems to that. Um, we did learning walks. Because when we agreed upon goals and what we were going to implement. And we need a way to verify. That we were getting traction. And so, we would… we would go into classrooms. We'd, um… we'd identify what we're looking for. And then we'd go to collect data on it. And to see if… are we seeing it? Are our efforts, all our resources, um, coming to fruition? Um… Lesson studied. Lesson study was a critical part of our highly
235effective teams. What is lesson study? Lesson study is… something, and it has its origins in, um… Japanese educational system. But it's… it's where a group of educators. Plan, a common lesson. And then they go out and teach it. Um, they discuss it prior, they go out and teach it. They come back, they debrief it, and then another member of that team goes out and teaches it. Um, this is hard work. Okay? It is very hard work. It's hard to change systems. And education is one of the most difficult systems to change. Why? Because everyone's gone to school. Everyone is an expert. In education, right? By default. Um, and that's not to diminish the fact that we need to engage all of our stakeholders and all of our shareholders in these discussions. We need to educate
236them about the programs that we have. What we're doing that's working with students. And then we need to be transparent with what's not working for students. I'm not sure if I answered all the questions. Uh, this is the last question, and then a follow-up question. What distinguishes you from the other candidates, and why do you believe. You are the best fit to lead Solano County Office of Education. At this time. I believe I am the best candidate. Because of… what I've told you tonight, um… I humbly come to you, um. I may not be the most educated. Uh, of the group. Um… But I can tell you, um. If, um, we go out and… fight over the students in Solano County. I may not win the fight, but you'll know I was there. I have
237a deep commitment. Ensuring that all of our students succeed. And you said our special education students, our foster, um. Unhoused students are English learners. Every single student population that we serve. I'm committed to ensuring that they succeed. I have had lots of experience. Working intimately. With staff to do the hard work. To do the heavy lifting. And I've done it, and I've modeled it. And it hasn't been necessarily perfect. But I ensured that my staff knew, hey. I'm in this fight with you, okay? We're gonna do this together. This is hard work, um, and again. Um, I am committed to working with the board. I… I have no ego. Um… Because if I put my ego, um, or let it… rear its ugly head. Uh, it's at the cost of students. And, um, their performance,
238their achievement. I would never do that. Because I know, uh, I've been in their shoes. I know what it's like to struggle. I know what it's like to… not have parents that… sit down with me and do my homework. Um, I… I know what it's like. Because my father worked the graveyard shift. And, uh, during tomato season. He, uh, worked very long hours. 7 days a week, um… months out of the year. So, I know about the struggle. And, um, you better believe that I'd work, um. My ass off students of Solano County. So, thank you for the opportunity, and good luck in your decision. We have one follow-up question. If selected for this appointment, do you intend to run for the county superintendent position in the June 2026 election? If yes, are you familiar
239with the election requirements and process for Canada? Yes, and uh… if… if the board. Uh, were so gracious as to. Um, select me. I most definitely would. Um… as you see from my professional background. Um, I have stick-with-it-ness. It's not about, um, promotions. It's about making a meaningful impact. Yes. Thank you. You'll want your 29 seconds? No, I have to. I'm more… Is there anybody still counted? Feels good. You're fast! On our way in. Well, this one faster than I thought. It's hard to talk for 3 minutes. Well, I have some. They just keep passing them down. Somebody, um, Teresa went to the mouth. Um, yeah, I just was gonna… I'll give them to you at the end. Well, we're gonna do our first place votes first. And depending on where you want. Not hopefully.
240No, I don't. Yeah, we're good. Alright, up now, Stella Kemp. We'll have, uh, 10 minutes total to do your opening and closing. Okay. And then we have 8 questions. So, I would suggest, uh, dividing that time. That you have left, the 30 minutes by 8. I ate. Yeah. Oh, 3 minutes. Thereabouts. Okay, thank you. So, good evening, trustees, uh, Superintendent Lizette. It's wonderful to see you in person. And community, thank you for coming out and sticking with us. Uh, to this late hour, so I'm Dr. Stella Kemp. I am a resident here in Solano County since 2022. And my husband and I relocated here from, um, the Bay Area. Into our forever home. So we are, uh, here to stay. I am an educator who has a breadth of experience, as you've seen from my
241resume. I have. I grew up in Texas. And, um, and then move… yes, I'm a Longhorn. Are you? Yes. Oh my god, okay. We'll have to talk later. Um… I'm an outsider. I am the candidate who is an outsider to the community, and I come with fresh eyes. I have my experience, though, has been in San Mateo County. In Santa Clara County. In San Bernardino County and in Riverside County here in California. And, um, I… taught in Austin ISD. That was my first teaching position. And we were under desegregation at that time. Um, so that set the foundation for me as an educator and as a leader. That our work is on behalf of the students. To provide the best. For those who need the most. And for those who don't need the most. They
242all will thrive anyway. So that concept of equity has been the heart of my work as an educator. Uh, and as a teacher. For me, my core values really foster around integrity and humility. Because at the end of the day, you have to go home and you have to look at yourself in the mirror. You have to know that you've done the best that you could have possibly done. For the people that you serve in this role. I also believe that resilience is important, and as anybody knows, an educator with over 30 years of experience. Sometimes it's been a rocky road. And there are, you know, individuals out there who might not, you know, approve what… of what you've done, or how you've led the work. But at the end, you have to be able
243to go. And we continue to move forward. Compassion has been a big part of my work, and that kind of goes with that equity… equity piece. As a superintendent, I have been identified as a change agent. I'm going to say that. I am a transformational leader. Now, change for this change's sake is not what I do. I am kind of a leader who believes in creating a vision with a community. And the work is evident in Vision 2035, which was developed in Santa Clara County. Santa Clara Unified when I was superintendent there, and I'll talk about that a little bit more later. But what's important about systems transformation is that you're utilizing data to make decisions. So I often see. Things come forward, and I wonder, well. What were they hoping to do, and how
244did they get there? They know what they were doing, and how did they know what change they need to make? The other thing that's important of my leadership is that I. And my background, in my doctoral work was in adult learning. And I believe in stretching and growing individuals. So, I'm a professional developer at heart, a teacher at heart, and that was one of the positions I held on the pathway to You Tonight. And the last piece about me is my work in community development. While I am new to Solano County, I am not new to community development. My work in the… in the Coachella Valley. My work in San Jose area. It was all about bringing individuals together on behalf of students and programs to support our most needy students. So, as a leader,
245I want to let you know that I am here because Opportunity awaits. I just happened upon the opening, and I think that was a sign that. You know, throw your name in the hat, right? Opportunity awaits. Our county is on the precipice of some big changes. And we need to be prepared for those changes. We need to be ready. And to do that, we need to start now. And I believe that I'm the individual who has experience in building. Community platforms and collaborating with businesses, government agencies, all on behalf of the students. And the school districts. That's my opening statement. Thank you. Um, why are you interested in serving as a Solano County Superintendent of Schools? And please describe your most recent leadership role and how it has prepared you for this position. As I
246mentioned earlier, this county is on the precipice of a lot of change, and as a leader in the Bay Area, an educational leader. I have witnessed firsthand when. The community is not prepared for. The industrial changes that are happening. In San Jose, in my work as an assistant superintendent of Ed Services, there were children that were leaving our school district that had no opportunity to engage in the Workforce of Silicon Valley. The schools… the schools were not… were not preparing them. And I think that as the county superintendent, there's an opportunity now. To begin to lay the groundwork, which is currently exists with the workforce development work that's in place. But to really take a look at what are those skills. What are the number of jobs? What are the… what are the teaching positions
247that we need to have in place? What are the, um, supports that we need to have? And when do we start this? We start this now. And… Vision 2035, which was kind of the hallmark work that I did as superintendent in Santa Clara Unified. That's exactly that question. The board hired me and asked me to create a world-class school district. And yet, at the same time, there were so many different initiatives going on, we couldn't… we couldn't do it all. How do you become world-class? We have to look at what you're doing and decide what you're going to stop doing. What you're going to continue to do, and what you're going to start doing. And that's what we did, to create Vision 2035, we started with students at the center. What are the graduate dispositions
248that we wanted for our children when they were leaving our school district? And then we mapped out what are the adult. Dispositions, and then what are the systems changes? And those system changes were critical to make those other two items happen. So that was a hallmark of the work, and I believe that that is exactly the plan that needs to happen here in this county. And I would like to work with the superintendents here in the county and with the boards. And our community to realize that. Trustee Dunn? Describe your experience working within or in partnership with a County Office of Education or regional service provider. How did you contribute to organizational goals or initiatives? So, um, Santa Clara County is well known for their work that they have done in the early childhood realm.
249So, EduCare of California in Silicon Valley. Was one of the projects that I worked on as an assistant superintendent of Education Services. And that work actually was… was multi… was really involved a lot of different partners. We had. The high school district, we had our county office. We had foundations, so we had a gate foundations, we had Buffett Foundation. We had first 5 of Santa Clara County. And we had, um… ethic charities. And Catholic Charities was the largest provider of support services to families in the area. And so, through this partnership, we were able to fund… A fundraise and get the money to build. The Educare of Silicon Valley. In addition, my team was responsible for the programming. So, for bringing in our city of San Jose. And the training partners for our families, as
250we were supporting families in one of the nine high-risk zones in. The City of San Jose to create a program that allowed us to have a learning center for teachers. And provide high-quality, inclusive early childhood experiences. The children from the most neediest part of the city. So this program is up and running, it continues to be funded, it's… now there's now a foundation supporting it. And all of that was because of this partnership that occurred with all the players at the table, from. The foundations, to our partner high school district. Accounting office, Catholic Charities. And so on. So it was an exciting project to be on, and it actually morphed into. Uh, the, um, Inclusion Collaborative. At the county office, which was a collaborative for special education students to ensure that they were. Put in
251the least restrictive environment. For their educational programming in our district became one of the first districts to create a TK inclusion program. For high-functioning autism students. And with the goal that the students would be completely mainstreamed by third grade. Uh, Trustee Cohen-Thompson? My question for you… What is your understanding of the unique educational, social, and economic context. Of Solano County. And how would that knowledge inform your leadership. So, Solano County is… it's sort of rural, but it's not really rural, but different parts of our county are suburban. We have a large Air Force base here that has many families that, uh, that, you know, could be transient. We have, um… And then we have, um, you know, families that try… that drive into Sacramento for work, so… or into the East Bay for work. So,
252you know, thinking about a suburban. School district, they're going to be significant needs for families, whether they work locally or they are, uh. You know, having to drive an hour to work. And so, when you think about the services to students. How do we serve students in that way, and how do we support school districts to have the ability to be able to provide that? Um, economically, our community, uh, again, is, you know, we have a large Air Force base here, and that's an economic hub, and. When I was working in Apple Valley, you know, they had just closed the Air Force Base there, and the ramifications of the closure of that base was. Really significant to our community. I've seen firsthand what happens when. Uh, when a program like that leaves your community. But
253again, you know, also in Benetra with Vallejo leaving, I think there's a lot of opportunity for us to really think how we can support the school district and the community there. Uh, because that is a significant, um. Revenue for the school district and, uh, for the community, and how do we make sure that. That community is not left behind when that change happens. So that's why that California Forever project. And the potential, um, shipbuilding. And, um, all of the light industry that's going to be coming in, the engineering. My husband's an engineer, so I'm a little fond of engineering. Um, and, um… and all of those… those… those programs that are going to come forward, and the need, then, for development. Because as they grow there, we will need to have individuals that are prepared.
254To, uh, enter into the workforce. So it's, you know, micro just had a, um, a podcast about. The need for jobs here in the United States, and we have not been focusing on. Um, on the… career pathways. For students through our CTE programs. We had this laser-like focus for more than 25 years on college, college, college. Not every child goes to college, and there are some amazing jobs out there. And we know in the building industry, they can't build houses fast enough because we don't have plumbers, we don't have carpenters. We don't have people that can jump into those jobs, and so an opportunity would be for. Accounting office to really look at how can we leverage. Travis Air Force Base, you know, they must have individuals there on the Air Force Base who could
255become adjunct teachers or whatnot when they leave. Their, uh, their time with the Air Force. What can we do to recruit individuals to help. Make sure that our school districts have high-quality programs and students are ready. To enter into the workforce. When I was in Coachella Valley, one of my responsibilities down there was to work with Desert Sands. And with Palm Springs Unified to create a, um… a CTE pathway, um. Comprehensive pathway, because we knew that we had limited resources in the community, we had to figure out. Well, how are we going to do green energy if we… can only find one green energy teacher for the whole valley. How do we collaborate together as school districts? And so, we went and looked at Nashville. Nashville Public Schools and looked at their system that they
256had in place with their transportation to get the students to these programs. And there are a variety of programs out there that. Have been built in communities to be able to create. Opportunities for students to have the internships. And to have access to, um. To the problems that they desire. Thank you. Trustee LaVelle? Thank you. Please share an example of a successful interagency collaboration you led or participated in at the county level. What was your role, and what outcomes were achieved? Oh gosh, okay, so I… well, I talked a little bit about the EduCare Silicon Valley. I think that is probably one of the largest programs that, um, that I've been a part of. Early childhood has been, um, even though I was a high school chemistry teacher, somehow I ended up. Doing a lot
257of work in early childhood. And, um, in that. You know, when we're talking about. I'm East San Jose, and trying to level the playing field. You know, you have to bring all of the players to the table. And so, that was one example that I can give you. Let me think… I think the other one that I would like to talk about is the Charter Compact work that we did. So, as you know, Eastside San Jose is, um, sort of the foundation of where the charter movement began here in California. And, um, this… my school district and the superintendent. Believed in educational competition. You're going to improve the outcomes for students by. You know, having some competition is going to force, uh, force improvement. And in very radical about that. I was the one that
258was responsible for implementing it, though. And, um, and so… What happened was that, um. The county and the school board were. I'm very interested in making sure that the charter's petitions that we received. Were at a level that would benefit the community. We weren't just getting a fly-by-night charters, that we wanted to make sure that the. Charter was really purposeful. Wasn't a duplication of a program that currently existed. So, we, um, got together with, uh, Gates Foundation and created a district charter compact that outlined. Our commitments to each other as organizations and how we would. Ensure that we were serving all of the students in the district. And that there weren't… it wasn't an uneven playing field, so we had agreements in place, and then. When a new petition came forward, they had to read
259the compact and agree to, are we going to agree to adhere to this compact? And that allowed us to create a really robust, high-performing educational system. Across the district and across all of the partners, from KIPP and Rocket Ship. And Cornerstone… And, um, in the school district. A C-sharp? What is your approach to working with the County Board of Education? And how would you foster a collaborative and transparent relationship with board members? Well, you guys are great. I mean, you have a longhorn on your board, so, you know, that would be easy. Um, so I think that the… Building the superintendent's role on the board is as a partner. Um, the school board is… you were elected, and. You know, if the decision is, um. For me, as your next super… or the interim superintendent.
260I will consider running for office. And I think what's important is to understand is that this is a partnership, we operate together. And decisions are made together, but each one of you brings different skills and different knowledge. And different assets to this board, and this wonderful kaleidoscope. Of experiences. Makes a strong board. So my role is to get to know each one of you. I don't know why you're on the board. What drives you to be on the board? And then think about opportunities for you as a board member, as individual board member, to contribute into our community. So, sometimes things would come my way, and I could be like, oh, well, Trustee Sharp would be really great at this, and I'm going to send this down her way, and. See if she's interested. So,
261it's… it's a… it's a relationship that's a give and take, it's a partnership. And we work together on behalf of the students of Solano County. Cheek. Please describe your experience managing complex budgets, including local control formula. Lcff and grants. What steps have you taken to ensure sound fiscal practices? A very good question. Um, so my last role that I had after I left the superintendency was a chief business officer, and, um, I was in a school district that was at deficit spending when I came in. And, um, I… my… my saying to, uh. To my superintendent was. You can pay for anything you want, but not everything you want. And so, um… So my role there was really to, um, help. To help… help to manage expectations. As a, um… As an assistant super of
262Ed Services, I was right at the very front of the LCAP. And I had an amazing CBO. Who showed me the way of how you develop and how you grade your funding in order to sustain your programs. So, um, I… as a… as a… then that later, as a CBO, for me, it was always taking a look at what are the funding sources that we have. For the different programs that we have in place. What are the allowable expenditures to those funds? And making sure that we're spending the dollars as allowed by, um, by statute or by the grant. And, uh, and also thinking about. When the dollars run out, what's the plan? I, um, I think it's really important for, uh, for the county office and for the. Um, for the… for the support
263that we give to our school districts, is to. Make sure that we're looking at their budgets, identify, okay, where are the expenditures coming? From these one-time dollars, and what is their… way to step off of those dollars, what are they going to do? Many school districts in California right now are struggling because they put money into. Uh, they put people into one-time dollars and didn't have. An off-ramp to, to, uh, to… you know, move and shift funding around. And so on. So, that is, um… challenging right now across the state, especially now with our federal dollars. And, um, and in my experience. You know, once you, um. Get at the end of the year, and you're closing out your budget, you have to take a look at where can you put money around. In order
264to be able to make sure you're not. Deficit spending, or have additional cuts that have to come up in the subsequent years. Trustee Dean? Thank you. What efforts have you led to improve curriculum, instruction, and compliance with California standards? How have you supported underserved populations such as foster youth, English learners. And students in alternative or special education programs. You just… those are my… those are my favorite questions so far. I'm with my background as a… as a teacher and as a principal. Um, first I want to start off by saying that, um. You guys all know the professional learning communities and Rick DeFore, and. All that work that was started in the late 90s. I was early in on that. And, um, and so I've… I've always operated as an instructional leader. Who believes that
265we have to be clear about what the outcomes are that we want for our students, and then we build the support systems for staff. For students, and we gather data, and. Make sure that we're monitoring to see if we're on track. So, um, I've done quite a bit of work with, um. With Improvement Science, and um… And Partners in School Innovation was one of my partners that I… that I was blessed to have. Grant dollars to help fund the programs in, uh, in… East San Jose, where we were able to build high-functioning. Professional learning communities for staff. For principals to look at data and to identify where we needed to add more resources, or where we were on track. And, um, and so, when you think about special education students, you think that's one of
266those areas you have to always look at. What are the support systems you have in place? Uh, do you have enough staff? You know, we knew. Special education staffing has been an issue for a number of years, and so. You know, what are the creative ways that we can grow our own staff? Uh, and bring people in, and there are grants out there right now for school districts who. Would like to, um… I'd like to grow their own special education staff, so taking an instructional aid and help them become a classroom teacher, and so on. So, um, those opportunities are there. And when you think about when LCAP first came out, you know, one of the things we toyed with in our district was IEP for all. So each student would have an individual education
267plan. Um, so our fostering homeless students. Who have, you know. Have had educational interruptions through the course of their schooling would have an opportunity for us. To look at where their gaps were, and then build a plan for them to move forward. That was something that we had hoped that would get some legs, but it just didn't at the time. We had so many other things going on. So, um, my experience really around instructional, uh. Curriculum instruction implementation. Is, um, you know, I was in Ed Services for many years, and. Also as the Director of Professional Development. Uh, you know, back in the day when we had to do was the F… SB288 or AB288 training. I worked with, um. With our county at the time to make sure all of our teachers were trained
268in the curriculum. And had done their portfolios, and I think curriculum implementation is really great. When you do the training, but then you follow up and you train your administrators to know what to do when they walk into classrooms. And so part of the work that I've led has been in structural grounds, and that was one of the findings in my doctoral work, was. How do you improve systems? Well, if you don't inspect what you expect, you're always going to get what you always got. And so we wanted to, non-threatening way. Create instructional rounds for our, um, for our leaders and for school leaders, and then for teachers. To go in and see what they are… what their colleagues are doing. And what does that data say about the instruction that's happening on a campus?
269One example, uh, in, uh. In Ontario-Montclair, in our instructional round of work, we had a middle school that was very skeptical of the instructional rounds. And so we focused only on student engagement. We thought that that was one of the qualities that. Would be really important to show that we were actually utilizing instructional time in a way. That would, um, you know, high-quality instructional time would benefit student outcomes. And so, after a semester of gathering the data. The, uh, the data sets were presented to the teachers in a staff meeting. Make dataset A and dataset B. Dataset A had, um. High engagement, and it had… it just high levels of engagement. And data set B had low levels of engagement. And so, at the staff meeting, they just said. So, what does the data tell
270you? And the maths department turned and looked at the language arts department and said, what data set needs you. And they said, nope, it's not department. And then they said, well, it's 7th grade. It's dangerous that we… no, it's not 7th grade. Turned out that data sent. A was Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. In dataset B, low engagement, was Monday-Friday. And so, when they realized that they had. 40% of the instructional time. Was… was lost because of Monday-Friday activities, or whatever was happening, and there was lesson planning. They, um, they changed, and that school became one of our model schools. The following year. So, this is the last question, and then, uh, a follow-up, but you kind of already answered it. Uh, what distinguishes you from the other candidates, and why do you believe you're the best
271fit to lead Solano County Office of Education at this time? Well, that is a… that is a loaded question, really. Uh, because I… I'm humble, and I don't like to, you know, so I'm gonna try to show off a little bit about my experience. I have over 30 years of experience, I've been a superintendent in two large… well, two school districts. And a CBO in a large school district. I have a background as an educational leader who has, um, proven track record for. Um, improving outcomes for students, whether they're English learners, whether they are a foster and homeless. Students, or whether they're a special education students. You know, one of the things that I did when I came from Texas, I was. Kind of surprised a little bit about the state of special education in
272California, because Texas has led the way in inclusion, and I thought, oh, I'm gonna walk into inclusion. There was no inclusion going on, and I said, well, that's not right for the students. They need to be in with their peers, they need to be, um… they need to have access to high-quality. Grade-level instruction, and we'll just modify, you know. What we need to do. And so, over the course of a two-year period, we implemented a model inclusion program at the school where I was leading. And, um, the first year was really rocky. It was really rocky, and most of the issues were really… Um, the relationship between the push-in teacher. Co-teacher. It was a co-teaching model. And the content area teacher, and we really worked on building relationships. That was most of the work. The
273students thrived. By the second year, and then at the end of the first year, we asked people, if you want to step off, if you want to step off, it's okay. And we had two teachers that stepped off. The first week into the second year, those two teachers came and said. Wait a minute, we actually want to do it. We missed that, you know, they didn't realize what they… But they didn't have what they had until they didn't have it anymore. So my work has really been around. Supporting and growing organizations, and making sure that. Um, that… When the opportunity exists for, um. Improvement that we take a look at it, and we develop a plan for that. So, as a newcomer to Solano County, I come with fresh eyes. I am… am… excited about
274the opportunity to build relationships throughout the community. I've done it before. I've actually been on two rotaries. In fact, I was elected to the board twice. And, um, and have engaged in my community wherever I've served as a superintendent. So I look forward to the opportunity to doing that here in Solano County. Just a follow-up question. If selected for this appointment. Do you intend to run for the county superintendent position in the June 2026 election? If yes, are you familiar with the election requirements and process for candidacy? Uh, yes, I would consider it, absolutely. I think that it's important that whoever fills this position. Stays for the… for a longer period, and 18 months isn't long enough to. For me as a leader to be able to affect the kind of work that I would
275hope we could do together as a board and as a community. And do I understand the requirements? I'm gonna go read them if I'm selected as your, um, as the interim superintendent. Thank you. That's the end of our call. I believe you still have a few minutes for ending statements. I do have a few things, yes. But first, let me just say that, um. What a wonderful place to live. This is, um… I came here to… Northern California in 1978 with my parents, and I told my. My mom and dad, I said, I'm coming back. This is a wonderful place to live, and um… I feel connected and at home here. And I've been working for the last, you know, last couple years down in Contra Costa County, and so. Um, you know, it's a
276long haul, long commute, and um… And so I'm excited about the opportunity to be able to be here in the community and serving the community where I live. Oh, a little bit about me. You know, I am a daughter of a German immigrant. My mother was a war bride, my father was stationed in Germany during the Reconstruction, after the Second World War. Um, my husband is, um. Is a native Californian, he's not a native California, but he grew up here in California. And when he and I had an opportunity to come back, we moved back, and we were in Southern California for a number of years, where our daughters went to high school and to college. I'm… my oldest daughter's actually getting married tomorrow. So, um, so it's a… Um, it's a quiet ceremony. We're
277gonna have the big reception in October in Santa Barbara. Um, so as leader, I think that, um, I am, um, somebody who. Operates one of my favorite books that I've read in the last two years is a book called Radical Candor. And it kind of sets the stage of really who I am as a leader, because. Um, I… because of my… my sense of integrity. I, um… confront. Sometimes, I confront a lot more than I'm used to. Those things that aren't in the best service of students or the community. And I do it in a way sometimes that people don't often like to hear. I mean, when you have to give someone an evaluation and they've only gotten positive evaluations for 10 years, but you know that they're not meeting the standard. We're not doing
278what's best for students. And so. I just want to let you know that, you know, I lead with grace. With integrity, and I call it what it is. That's what we do in Texas, is we call it what it is. In the nicest way, and give support to individuals so that they can thrive. And our students' intern can thrive and be successful. So, thank you for the opportunity. I know you have a big decision ahead of you. And I appreciate your time. All right. Do we need a break? Do we need a 5-minute… Okay, we're gonna take a 5-minute break, and then we'll reconvene. I'm not down. Look at all these tissues… Right there in the corner. All right, here we go! Where's Dana? Oh, I gambled too quick. There she is. Thank you all
279for coming, for staying. This has been a wonderful process. We got to know 5 wonderful candidates. That we didn't know before. Um, so we're gonna have some general comments from the trustees, and then we're gonna poll the trustees. One at a time to see who their number one person is. And any, uh, their why as to why that person's their number one choice. If we are able to get, uh… four number ones, then we can entertain a motion to appoint. Right now, we're gonna start it off. And any trustees that want to make comments before we do the polling? That's the chink. First, I want to thank all of the candidates for their service, their experience, and willingness to step up and lead as superintendent. Banel County. Um, your commitment to education matters deeply to
280our community. I want to say thank you to all of you guys. Anybody else? Trustee Dean? Um, I also would like to thank the candidates, um… I'll just mention one thing. It was… this is a remarkable experience. It's very hard. But it's a remarkable experience to sit here and hear from the community, and hear from dedicated education professionals. Um, I was sharing with my colleague that there was a moment that each of you. We knew what you were passionate about, because your tenor changed. Your mannerisms change, and you could. Feel. We could feel deeply how much you care about a particular… one particular thing or another. Sometimes a bunch, but we can see that all of you are. Truly dedicated, and that… that has great meaning. And I gotta thank you for what you went
281through to get here. We've… many of us have done it. Right? Many of us were originally appointed and went through this very same process. So, I respect that. I also, of course, want to thank the community that has come out. You wouldn't know it, but most of our meetings really don't have. This number of people. Attending, did you know that? Yeah, no. Um, but, uh, even though we have a very substantial presence in the county and a very substantial budget, and incredibly excellent people working here. It's rare that we get to see so many folks come out, and. I appreciate that you understand the importance of the decision we're making tonight. I want to thank my colleagues. Including this ghost death. But in particular, I want to thank the Ad Hoc Committee. What an enormous
282undertaking this was, and I appreciate it. And most especially. I want to thank our president. Or handling our business so well. Uh, thank you so much. This was… This was a challenge. I also want to speak to the process. Um, a couple people thanked us for our efforts tonight. Guess what? There's a lot more effort that goes into this than just what you see. This is the tip of the iceberg. Truly. We reviewed stacks and stacks of material. I read every single word. That came before us. But, I walked in here tonight not knowing the direction of my vote, and you know why? That's the process. The process that we chose, that I championed, in fact. To come here tonight and get public input, get… input from the community in writing, and all of those
283things lead us to this moment where, as elected decision makers. We make the decision after we hear from you, not before. Have I made that plain, we make the decision tonight. So I walked in here not knowing. Who's gonna be my number one choice. And I've got to tell you, it's hard. It's really hard, because you all presented so well. Um, anyway, thank you again so much. I'm… I'm… the last thing I'll say is I'm appreciative of the respectful tenor. For the most part, in the room, and from the commenters. I think we all know that the people in this room. Care very deeply about students and education in our… community, so thank you. Justice Cohen Thompson? I would like to ditto on that, and thank everybody that came out. Um, I think the candidates
284that came out, um. To add value to what's going on here in the County Office of Education. I thank all the supporters of all the candidates, um… It looks like we've got a person. In the room that has a real large fanfare. But that doesn't say anything about the others, because her people are local, really local. I appreciate everybody, and as, um… being said, I've read everything, I circled words, I'm a wordsmith. So I circle words to… look at the various… um, intentions of those words that were used. Um, I look for words that weren't there. Because words that are missing tell a story. And you have to factor in that story, as well as the story you heard. And the words that you read and the story they told. Um, I, too, went over
285everything with a fine-tooth comb and did not come in here. With any, um… predetermined, uh. Selections, because, um. Have some personal things, and therefore. I didn't get real deep into… the instructions on how to… everybody had a score sheet. Criteria sheet. But I… I did it… I did the same thing this says. But I didn't do one for each one. I scored them separately. But it all turns out the same. So, this was difficult. This is not an easy thing. When you've got people that are experienced. And there are different levels of experience. Inexperience. I thank you, I thank my ad hoc committee. Um, I went through this before, when we selected, uh. Our current superintendent. And… I don't know if this was more difficult. Then that, when we did that. So, the process is
286a good process, um… I want to believe that everybody understands the transparency. There was nothing done. Uh, cloak and Dagger. We had reports, we have minutes to show. The, um… the, uh, responses, uh, or the progress this would… made by the ad hoc committee. So, everybody, here we go. Sure, I got a microphone. Um, I wanted to address the five of you, and thank you for your time. I know this is, um, this can be an uncomfortable. Uncomfortable, um, process. But I got a comment on the commonalities that I heard in many of your stories. And acknowledge that people at this level of educational leadership. Have a lot in common. Your talk of equity, of inclusion. Of servant leadership. Passion of, uh, looking to kids as the center of all that we're doing. It's, um,
287it's compelling, and it makes it really, really hard. To… choose. Um, but I congratulate you all on wonderful careers. The impacts that you have brought for our communities. It can't be measured, and I know we're all grateful for it. Um, before I let go of the microphone, though, I do want to turn the camera on our current superintendent and say thank you. Um, I know there's been a little bit of grief over the idea of retiring midterm. Unfortunately, life doesn't come in 4-year increments. And, um, so you need to do… what is right for you, for your family. I congratulate you on an incredible career. And I thank you for your stellar leadership of STO. And putting together this team that we all get the privilege of working with. Thank you. Trustee Dunn. Well, I
288certainly cannot follow that. That was much well deserved, and I… Completely agree, 100% with the sentiments of Trustee LaVelle for you, Lisette. An amazing, um, almost 6 years now. 7 for me, being here, and just… Serving with you, so I appreciate that. Um, and this being my first time going through this process. I'm just seeing what it's like, but I do appreciate you, and thank you for all of your. Compassion and dedication. The Solano County Schools students. Organization, us, everybody. Community partners. To the five of you, thank you for being here tonight and for enduring this process. I know it's a daunting process. Um, and I feel a kindred spirit to you. I'll be going into my 30th official year in education this coming up year. Um, 32 overall, if I include my first two
289years of full-time subbing. So, I have, uh… hindered spirit with you for… Subbing for being a teacher in the classroom for 23 years, 3 years as an administrator now, so… I understand, I've been before. Multiple-person panels and interviews, and it's very daunting, and the way you held yourself. And answer questions with just grace and clarity and confidence and experience that you shared with us. I greatly appreciate it. Um, and again, I agree with… the previous comments of what Stellar… candidates we have before us. Um, I did just have one question that I wanted to just make sure with… with legal counsel, just… I'm a detail person, my eyes find these things, and so… Um, just with, um… Dr. Paris, um… application that didn't represent an administrative credential. Um, I understand she explained it was from
290Virginia, I think I remember. Um, and so I just wanted, with the role of a California superintendent, is there… any problem with the… with a Virginia credential. Thank you. So, uh, yes, there's… there's two education code provisions. Um, one is 1206, and one is 1208, and let me make sure… at the two of them. The first one, 1206, says that a… An individual cannot be appointed or elected to the county superintendent. Unless they hold a valid credential, administrative credential specifically, issued. And that word is in the statute issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. And then similarly, 1208 says. The county superintendent shall hold a. Administrative credential held by the CT, or excuse me, issued by the CTC, so… In order for an individual to. Actively hold that role. They do need to hold
291an active administrative credential. I know that there was a comment regarding a potential temporary. County certificate, which essentially permits somebody who is in the process of getting their credential or renewing their credential. To continue getting paid. Um, but we need to also consider that there's a separate set of statutes that talks about the requirements for a county superintendent. And so, um, in the interim. Before somebody can actually assume that position, they would need to have the credential. I know here we're talking about a September 1st date. Okay, appreciate that, thank you. Christy Sharp? When I got elected in 2016, I remember being kind of… Eh, because I didn't get to help pick the superintendent, and I'm realizing now, man, did I dodge a bullet. A couple months ago, this looked a lot easier. Um, I
292have flipped and flopped all over the place, uh. Your binder and binders of… gone all over the place. I thought Dana really hit it, but… There was a moment in every single one of your interviews. That I was ready to vote for you right then. Um, but then there'd be another person and another really great reason. And, uh. I like making arguments, is if you… if you came here every month, you know, then I don't mind arguing. Um, and I could definitely make an argument for each of you being a great superintendent. Um… and what I'd really… I don't consider myself much of a softie, but what I'd really like to do is just find a place for all of you, so we don't have to send anybody home. Especially on the eve of their
293daughter's wedding, so… I want to thank you, too, um, for coming out here, interviewing in public can't be fun. I want to thank the public for. Sticking it out this late, and for coming and voicing your opinion. For those who wrote letters with your names on them, thank you. Um… I'm just saying, if you can't put your name on it. I just… this is a tough process, um… I definitely didn't come in with a candidate in mind, for sure. Flipped and flopped all over, like I said. And, uh. We'll see when we tell our number one, I guess, so thank you. All right, well… We're here. This is the time. I will say this has been… a very different process. Uh, and the fact that we completely left the superintendent's office out of this. For
294a reason. Um. We wanted complete transparency. We wanted you to know that this is completely within the board's jurisdiction, and only the Board's jurisdiction. So the superintendent's office had no influence. Nothing. They did nothing to influence this board one way or the other. So, however these votes turn out. They turn out because this is what this board decided to do. So, this was a long process. It was a very arduous process. But it's a good process. Because we are… confident that this was transparent. And fair. Um… And this is just the beginning. Whoever is appointed to this, um. Will need to run again. And be out there even more. But, like we said before, we go on to the next superintendent, I do want to thank. Uh, superintendent Estrella Henderson. She brought this office out
295of the Dark Ages. She graduated students. That were thrown away. For years. And probation. That I worked in. I can't thank her enough. As she took up that mantle. And gave those kids a graduation. That they never would have seen, going back to a school that got rid of them. We care for our kids! We're on the porch with Dr. Garrett every morning, welcoming those. Students in. And that's through the leadership of Lisette. So, whatever… however difficult this process has been. No. I highly respect this woman. Highly respect her. And this has been the most difficult process. But I am sure in the fact that this was an independent process. That we did this independently of the superintendent's office. So anybody who would. Talk about we colluded, we hid stuff, anything like that. Those are
296lies. Those are blatant lies. From our attorney. We had everything completely separated. This was like the Chinese wall, if you know anything about legal. This is the Chinese wall. And I don't know that the superintendent's office had ever dealt with the Chinese wall, but I've dealt with the Chinese wall, so… and I'm sorry that… it had to get to some brass tacks at some times, but know that I highly respect you and your office. And I think you've done wonders in bringing SCO. To the place where it can go and flourish and really be a visionary for other county offices. Which we already are. Because we are the only. Counting office in the state. That is female-led and has a complete female board. And with that… Let's tally the votes. In your binder, you have
297a tally sheet, if you want to follow along. I'll give you a minute to find that. Where is it? Um, and D. The very first section? Um, in speaking to President Coleman, we will… ask in alphabetical order with President Coleman going last. Um, your number one selection? And your why. So, first up, Trustee Cheek. I'm Trustee Treek, uh… Especially for District 5 in Vallejo. One of the most complicated districts in Solomon. And, um. Do I tell the number that I gave them? Oh, you can tell who your number one selection is. Number one candidate today is… Dr. Nikki Parr, as Superintendent. For Solano County Office of Education. Um, my why is that Dr. Parr has been in-house for over 10 years and has direct experience in every aspect of the students' needs, from the fiscal
298oversight. Grant management to program development and compliance. She's bought millions in grant funding, managed complex budgets, and created real effective. Tangible programs. Um, the superintendent role at school is different from district superintendent. We need a superintendent who's ready on day one. Dr. Parr will hit the ground running. And is, uh… Dr. Parr is the leader school needs, and I proudly cast my vote for Dr. Parr. Thank you. Next up, Trustee Cohen Thompson. I need clarity. Um, on the question that, um. Dunn asked about certification. Could you restate that again, please? In order for an individual to be elected or appointed to the county superintendent position, they must hold an administrative credential issued. By the California Commission on Teaching Credential. So in order for somebody to hold that role effective September 1st, and for the board
299to appoint them, they must hold that credential. Can I ask a follow-up? Yes. So, those were two different moments. One, the appointment, and two, when they take the seat. So you're saying. This person has to be… Does… does that matter, right? We're in July, number… That's the first issue. And the second issue. Is, will every candidate. Who's before us tonight have the appropriate credential by December. September 1st. So the statute says appoint or elect, so in theory, the board could not even appoint somebody who does not currently hold it. There's an untested. The way in which you could do a conditional appointment of somebody, so if somebody who does not currently hold a credential. You know, was number one. There were four individuals who chose that individual as number one. In theory, you could do
300a conditional appointment by a date certain that they hold it, and then take… retake action. I'm gonna make up a scenario. August 12th? 13th. 13th is at the board meeting? Must hold the credential, um, and on that day, if an individual who was selected does hold that credential, then the board could basically take action to appoint it. It's like the non-conditional portion at that. If the individual does not, then the board could… would take no action and or appoint another individual who does. Have the credential. And I want to give the caveat that that conditional appointment. Um, is untested, so that's, you know, there's… I just want to make sure I make that clear. Doesn't mean you can't do it, but I do want to clarify that that is. A second option, um, that is
301untested. And then separate and apart from that, this person has the obligation. Hold the credential on September 1st. In order to… so the way there's, like, that temporary credential, or excuse me. Certificate, accounting certificate, that statute, it's 44932, I believe. Um, I can pull that up. It… it… basically allows… there's a… there's a provision that says certificated folks cannot be paid. Unless they hold the credential for their assignment, whatever that is, whether you're a teacher, or you're an administrator. And so what that statute allows you is if you're in the process of renewing your credential, and it's, you know, you've got your application in. It allows you to continue to get your pay warrant for the county, essentially, to issue the pay warrant for that person to continue getting paid. That is a separate issue
302from. Actually serving the role of that individual position. Okay. The ball is in my court, based on… Wait, wait, wait. C-sharp. So, bowling the five people… Do you have the credential now? Will you have it by August. 12th? 13th? Will you have it by September 1st? Is that… I mean, is that fair to ask? I mean. It seems like a pretty big… Question mark. Everybody, right? For everybody, we're not playing favorites. Now, August, September. How about Micah, now? Win-win, when do you expect to have it? Can I follow up. Oh, I'm sorry. Is that Brian? Thank you. Dr. Parr? So, the question was… You have the credential now, will you have it on August 13th, and will you have it on September? Understood. Understood. Now, now you, Peggy. Really difficult. Well, I had a tie.
303All right? So… Hold on, I had a tie with, uh… Enola Garcia and Micah Stroder. Based on their current experience. In every area of operations. While I appreciate… Well, I appreciate Dr. Park. I recall telling her prior to this that I… I would recommend her… nominate her to be. A candidate for the California State. Uh, superintendent of schools. So, that was just something I want everybody to know that I had talked to her about that prior. The disposition even coming up. There are some areas of operations. That is not… Um, in her… experience, and where we are right now in this nation with education. We really need someone with. Boots on the ground. Um… I just really hate you didn't have that baby. But, uh, anyway, my top two. He's your top one right now.
304How could I do a job? I don't know if mine, do whatever you have to do. Hell yeah. Oh my god. We already have to pick one. Well, we'll do that for transition. Hold on. Next up is Trustee Dean. Sometimes I'm third, sometimes I'm 4th. Okay. Um… This is very hard. It's very, very hard. Um, I… and my top two were very close. I did use all the charts and the numbers and everything. So, I have a numerical score, as well as… the sort of sense… from what came before us. Um, my top score goes to Dr. Park. And there are a number of reasons. The… the… She just shines out. As someone who has vision. Who has, um, energy. Who has passion. My view is she has a tremendous amount of boots on the
305ground experience. Not only in… our county office of education. Proven experience. Proven at bringing money into the. Into our coffers. Proven at advancing. The lives of the most vulnerable students in this county. There are others in the room who I feel the same way, in fact. About, who did not apply. That I know of. But, um… Truly, that's… I mean, this is nothing against the rest of you. Uh, particularly Mr. Garcia. You were my number 2. Inch. But, um… Um, that's why. And also, you know. This person represents. Everyone in this county. This person is the voice to the community, to the news, to the state. To the nation about what's going on in Solano County, and so it has to be a person. Who can stand in that role, who can take the hard
306questions. Who can move… a 21st century. Diverse population. Forward, and be someone that we are proud of. Please don't start crying out there. The big criteria. Please stop crying. So, for those reasons, my first vote goes to… Dr. Parr. Next up, Trustee Dunn. All right, um… It's been mentioned what an important decision this is for. Um, the county office. Um, for the county in general, for students, families, employees. Community partners. Um… And so I really think… um, experience, um, is a key… part of this, um, experience. Um… in a variety of areas. Um, and… one person kind of rose to the top. Um, and one of the areas is being. Experience with SCO, in particular. Um, and so in looking over everything and… listening to things tonight, and reading over the packets. Um, I really
307feel like… Um, that person for me is Manolo Garcia. Um, he has a wide range, going from classroom to site to district to county office. Levels. Um… He has the experience in multiple areas, um… county office areas, HR, personnel, labor relations, um… the charter school oversight law. Personnel law, Title IX implementation, preschool experience with a preschool program. Um, just a whole variety of things that I think are important. Aspects to have, um, because in the superintendent role, you're overseeing all of those various areas. Behavioral services, mental health, I mean, you know, Dr. Parr's done amazing work, as was attested to tonight, with all of the people speaking to that. Um, but I just feel like there needs to be… broader experience for the person who's going to lead the entire organization, and so I feel
308like. Um, for me, that is Manilo Garcia. Thank you. Next up is Trustee LaValle. My number one would be, uh, Manilo Garcia. And my why is, um, echoing much of what I have heard from my colleagues. But I also want to emphasize that. From the very beginning of my time on this board, I've heard such wonderful things about the culture of SCO. And how it is carefully nurtured and cultivated. And it's because our… of that culture that. Sco is recognized not only locally, but throughout. The state as a quality program. And I believe that the. The person who… Um, can continue that, has been involved with. Making sure that culture. Continues, and that is Manolo. And, um… It is through that support of staff. And our community that our teachers and our people on the
309ground are able to thrive in the way that they do. And that's how our kids thrive. So, that is my number one. Thank you so much. That's D-sharp. This is tough. Um, I had, uh… I liked all five. Um… And I very much appreciate what SCO is doing now. There are a lot of things that we're doing very right. Dr. Garrett's sitting over there as the cheerleader for the… most shiny example. Um, but there's also things at Scope that really could use some work. Um, I spent… gosh, the first 7 years. Being the 6'1 on a lot of votes. The powers that be here didn't want me here either. Um… And this is a tough decision, um… I actually can't believe how hard it is. Um… I cast my vote for Dr. Parr. Thank you,
310and last… Wasn't it Coleman? You know, after reading all the letters of recommendation, and there were a lot. And we read every single word. The one that keeps sticking… in my mind. Was the one from… a student. From Golden Hills. It has to do with the culture that has been created. Through these grants. Or PBIS. For mental health services. Or working with… children who are underserved. Which is what I did for 30 years in this county. Basically, this student said, Dr. Parr saved their life. I can't get over that. I can't… because I was here in the Dark Ages. I was here when they had packets. To do work. When we put anybody in a classroom to teach 20 kids because they were on probation and nobody cared about them. I cared. It made no
311sense to me that we kept sending kids back to schools that got rid of them. We didn't have… we know these kids have problems. They have mental health issues. They have abandonment issues. They have homes that nobody else in this room would want to live in. But she went. And this kid, and said, you mattered. You belong here. We will help you be successful. And that's what we all want. We want our kids to graduate. We want them to be successful. We want them to be contributing members of this community. And that's what we have at Golden Hills. And in juvenile homes. We have a community school because we have community partners. My vote's for Dr. Parker. Nobody puts boots on the ground like this woman does. We have 4 votes for Nicola Parr, and
3122, or 3 for Manolo. Garcia. I will entertain a motion. I would like to make a motion. I don't think… Let her make the motion! I would like to make a motion that we conditionally appoint Dr. Park to the position of Superintendent of Schools for Salon County. And the condition is that she, uh, appears before us on August 13th at our regular. I think it's a regular meeting, to, um… show proof of appropriate certifications. Now I will entertain a second. All right, we have a motion on the floor right now to appoint. Dr. Nicola Parr as… the next superintendent of schools for Solano County. Conditionally, that she bring her… administrative credential. Through the August 13th regular board meeting, so that we're sure she's allowed to be appointed. And then she would take office on September.
313First or second? First, when, uh, our superintendent retires. So it has been on the floor and made by. Trustee Dean, seconded by Trustee Cheek, and we'll take a roll call vote, please. Presti cheek? Yes. Trustee Cohen-Thompson? No. Trustee Dean? Yes. Trustee Dunn? No. Trustee Lavelle? Yes. Trustee Sharp? Yes. Trustee Coleman. Yes, congratulations, Dr. Park. Oh, yeah, I adjourn. Yeah, we're adjourned.