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As I prepare to officially step into the role of Executive Director of the Small School Districts’ Association on July 1st, I want to begin by simply saying thank you.
Thank you for the work you do each and every day on behalf of students, families, staff, and communities across California. Small school districts are the heartbeat of this state. We know our students by name. We celebrate their victories personally. We feel the weight of their struggles deeply. And every day, often with limited resources, we continue showing up because we believe our students deserve extraordinary opportunities regardless of zip code.
That belief will guide my leadership.
As we move forward together, I see four priorities shaping the future of SSDA:
Students First
Every conversation, partnership, advocacy effort, and professional learning opportunity must ultimately answer one question: How does this improve outcomes and opportunities for students? Students will remain at the center of our work.
Advocacy with Purpose
Small districts face unique realities that are often overlooked in statewide conversations. SSDA must continue to be a strong, credible voice that not only reacts to legislation, but helps shape it. Our role is not simply to represent small districts; it is to ensure small district perspectives are heard, understood, and valued.
Amplifying Innovation
Some of the most creative, impactful work happening in education is taking place in small and rural districts. We need to do a better job of telling those stories, sharing promising practices, and creating opportunities for leaders to learn from one another. Innovation should not be reserved for large systems with large budgets.
Stronger Together
One of the greatest strengths of SSDA is the relationships within this organization. My hope is that SSDA continues to grow not only as an association, but as a connected community of leaders who support, challenge, and inspire one another.
I also believe deeply that this next chapter for SSDA is filled with possibility. Together, we have an opportunity to reimagine professional learning, strengthen partnerships, elevate student voice, expand leadership development, and create systems that better serve small school districts across California.
I am incredibly honored by the opportunity to serve this organization and its members. I look forward to listening, learning, and building alongside all of you in the months and years ahead.
The future of small schools is bright...because of the people leading them.
With gratitude and excitement,
Scott Borba
Incoming Executive Director
Small School Districts’ Association
| | Recognizing Service at SSDA | | |
As SSDA continues to grow and evolve, we want to take a moment to recognize several staff transitions and thank these individuals for the important role they played in supporting our members and mission. While change is a natural part of any organization, the work of SSDA continues strong because of the foundation they helped build.
Amy Roehl, Director of Programs
Amy Roehl has accepted an appointment as Superintendent/Executive Director with Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning in Nevada City. Her last day with SSDA is June 11, 2026. Amy brought energy, leadership, and a deep commitment to our members and programs, and we are excited to see her take this next step in her career.
Barbara Mitchell, Fiscal Manager
After years of service to SSDA, Barbara Mitchell has retired. Barbara’s care, professionalism, and steady support meant a great deal to the organization over the years, and we thank her for all she contributed.
Karen Mix, Co-Director, CS4NorCal
Following the successful completion of the CS4NorCal grant initiative in 2025, Karen Mix will be leaving SSDA on June 30, 2026. In addition to supporting the implementation of the multi-county grant program, Karen played an important role in member engagement, statewide partnerships, and SSDA membership growth. We thank her for her contributions and wish her continued success in her next chapter.
Dr. George S. Sziraki, Interim Executive Director
We are also thankful to Dr. George S.Sziraki for stepping in as Interim Executive Director during a period of transition. His leadership and guidance helped provide stability and continuity for SSDA, and we appreciate his willingness to serve the organization once again before returning to retirement.
Continuing the Work Together
Scott Borba, SSDA Incoming Executive Director - Effective July 1, 2026
Many of you will be getting to know Scott Borba as he steps into the role of Executive Director. Scott brings a collaborative leadership style and a strong commitment to supporting SSDA’s members and educational communities, and we are excited for the work ahead.
Gwen Bell, Senior Communications Specialist
Gwen Bell drives SSDA’s communications, outreach, and member engagement efforts, helping keep members informed, connected, and engaged in the work of the organization. Her work plays an important role in strengthening relationships across our membership and broader community.
Laissa Caraveo, Executive Assistant
Laissa Caraveo manages critical operational, leadership, and member service functions that keep SSDA running smoothly each day. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and dedication make her an essential part of the team as SSDA moves into this next chapter.
As we welcome new leadership and recognize important contributions from past and present team members, SSDA remains focused on what matters most: supporting our members and continuing the work that brings our educational communities together.
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2026 Small School Administrators Summit
July 25-27, 2026 | Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
LESS THAN 2 MONTHS AWAY!
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We are less than two months away from the 2026 Small School Administrators Summit!
We encourage you to register your entire team for this impactful conference. Attendees will gain valuable insights, practical resources, and innovative ideas to bring back to support and strengthen your small school district, charter school, or County Office moving forward.
Learn more about the program by watching the video here, and click here to view the agenda at a glance.
We hope to see you there!
| | SSDA's New Website & Membership Platform | | |
A couple of weeks ago, SSDA officially launched our new website and member portal experience, and we are excited to continue welcoming members as they explore the platform.
If you have not already done so, we encourage you to activate your account and review your information:
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Click the “Login” button
- Use your current email address to create your password
- Review and update your profile information as needed
We are also currently working with County Superintendents regarding membership commitments for the upcoming year. We encourage members to connect with their County Superintendent to express their interest in continued support and engagement with SSDA.
If you need assistance accessing your account or navigating the new website, please contact us at staff@ssda.org or 916-750-0722.
Thank you for your continued commitment to California’s small and rural schools!
| | Any updates or additions from our previous Compliance Corner in the last newsletter are highlighted in green. | | |
Eligible SSDA districts can now access Leader in Me at a significantly reduced rate ($11.50 per student) through SSDA’s partnership with FranklinCovey Education.
For our member districts, this new pricing helps make implementation more achievable.
Please review the flyer below for details. If you would like to explore the opportunity further, please fill out this form, and a FranklinCovey team member will reach out.
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During our final Superintendent Roundtable of the school year, Dr. Julie Boesch, Administrator at Kern County Superintendent of Schools, shared several outstanding resources and upcoming events focused on school facilities. So, here is your facilities fix:
School Facility Program (SFP) Application Process
Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- This web-shop will provide a roadmap to understanding how the School Facility Program (SFP) can support your district’s facility needs. Learn why participating in the program early is a critical step toward maximizing state funding opportunities to stretch your local dollars further. The Panel will walk you step-by-step through the application process—from eligibility and project identification to funding timelines and submission strategies.
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School Facility Program (SFP) Preparing for Audits and Closeouts
Thursday, July 16, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Successfully navigating the School Facility Program (SFP) doesn’t end with an approved application—understanding audits and closeouts is essential to protecting your funding and ensuring long-term compliance. The panel will address best practices for preparing for your SFP audit, walk through the logistics and timing of audits, outline effective document retention strategies, and highlight common pitfalls districts face.
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Happy Valley Community BBQ Revives Tradition and Raises $50,000 for the School and its Students
After a seven-year hiatus, the Happy Valley Elementary School District community gathered once again on May 3rd to celebrate the return of a cherished tradition, the Happy Valley Community BBQ.
What began as a hallmark event for the rural community in Santa Cruz County returned this spring with overwhelming support. The event drew hundreds of attendees, reconnected alumni, and raised an extraordinary $50,000 for students and programs at the small school district.
For Superintendent Michelle Stewart, the event represented more than a fundraiser. It was an opportunity to restore the community identity that has long defined Happy Valley.
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Mountain Empire Unified School District Creates a Full Circle Rural Education Experience of Community Innovation and Educator Dedication
At Mountain Empire Unified School District, innovation is not defined by size or location. The district spans a vast rural region in eastern San Diego County. It continues to create impactful opportunities for students. This includes community connections, career-focused learning, leadership development, and a commitment to preparing students for life beyond graduation.
Serving students from preschool through 12th grade, Mountain Empire Unified School District has built a culture where relationships matter, and students are known, supported, and encouraged to discover their purpose.
“A lot of our students start in our preschools and stay with us all the way through 12th grade,” said Superintendent Dr. Patrick Keeley. “Some of these kids are in the same classrooms and with the same friends for 12, 13, or 14 years.”
That sense of continuity and belonging is one of the district’s greatest strengths. Each year, graduating seniors return to their elementary school campuses in caps and gowns. Before heading to the district’s senior awards assembly, they visit their old schools. This year’s graduating class has around 75 students, and this tradition allows them to reconnect with former teachers and younger students while reflecting on their journey.
| | Senior Project Presentations | Annual Senior Walk from 2025 | | | |
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Shared Services Tuolumne County Transportation Marks 15 Months
With Zero Cancelled Routes
By Ed Pelfrey, Superintendent, Sonora Union High School District
Four districts partnered to strengthen reliability amid a nationwide driver shortage
Sonora Union High School District (SUHSD), in collaboration with Curtis Creek Elementary School District, Jamestown Elementary School District, and Sonora Elementary School District, is celebrating a significant milestone in the first 15 months of Shared Services Tuolumne County Transportation: zero cancelled home-to-school routes in 2025.
The idea for Shared Services was initiated in 2022, with a two-year collaborative study and planning process beginning that year. The shared transportation model was first implemented in the 2024–2025 school year, with the official launch occurring in early January 2025.
“In a rural county like ours, reliable school transportation isn’t a convenience. It’s access, stability, and peace of mind for families, every single school day,” said Ed Pelfrey, Superintendent of Sonora Union High School District. “Shared Services was built to restore consistency, strengthen staffing, and keep students connected to school. Completing more than a year with zero cancelled routes is a credit to our transportation team and our partner districts’ shared commitment to students.”
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Gina Murphy Named ACSA’s 2026 Superintendent/Principal of the Year
Article in ACSA's EdCal
Gina Murphy of Happy Valley Union Elementary School District has been named ACSA’s 2026 Superintendent/Principal of the Year.
"ACSA’s 2026 Superintendent/Principal of the Year Gina Murphy has built a model of equity-driven leadership in the Happy Valley Union Elementary School District, ensuring every student has access to the support needed to succeed.
Guided by the belief that equity means meeting individual needs, Murphy has led targeted efforts to close early literacy gaps through grant funding, the addition of a reading specialist, and stronger MTSS/RTI systems. Her focus on access extends beyond academics, expanding enrichment opportunities through an expanded learning opportunities program that addresses barriers such as transportation, staffing and meals, while increasing support for English learners through bilingual hires.
Under her leadership, the district has achieved measurable gains, including a 10 percent increase in English language arts performance on CAASPP, the highest in the county. Murphy has embedded data-driven practices into instruction through the adoption of NWEA MAP assessments and a multiyear literacy plan aligned with systemwide improvement."
| | | | 2026 Small School Administrators Summit | | |
Our annual summer conference is less than two months away and has officially evolved into the 2026 Small School Administrators Summit - now open to all small school administrators!
Join us July 25–27, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach for an engaging and collaborative experience designed specifically for leaders in small school districts. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn alongside their teams, collaborate with colleagues from across the state, and return to their districts with an action plan ready to make an immediate impact for the new school year.
Registration is currently open exclusively to SSDA member districts, so be sure to secure your spot today!
| | SSDA Board Policy Program | | SSDA is proud to offer an upgraded, member-centered Board Policy Program designed specifically for small and rural California school districts. This service provides clear, compliant, and updated board policies aligned with current state and federal law. Learn more on our website here. | | |
PRICING:
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$800 one-time set-up fee
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$2,500 annual fee
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YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Essential board policies aligned to California law
- Compliance monitoring
- Policy updates issued four (4) times annually
- Organized, easy-to-navigate policy structure
- Secure digital hosting
| | Steam Resources for SSDA Members | | Over 60 North State Educators Attend First-Ever Regional AI Training in Redding | | |
REDDING, Calif. — More than 60 educators from six Northern California counties gathered Monday in Redding for what organizers described as the first regional artificial intelligence training of its kind for North State educators.
Hosted at the Shasta County Office of Education through a partnership between the Small School Districts’ Association (SSDA), the California Mathematics, Science, and Computer Science (Cal MSCS) Grant, the Shasta County Office of Education, and the Shasta Union High School District, the event focused on helping rural educators integrate artificial intelligence and computer science into everyday classroom instruction.
Throughout the day, teachers and administrators participated in hands-on workshops exploring AI instructional design, computer science integration, and “vibe coding”. Using natural language to create digital tools and classroom resources without traditional coding experience.
| | | May Revision Boosts School Funding, but Familiar Concerns Linger | | |
Sacramento Update | May 15, 2026
Gavin Newsom has released his final May Revision as Governor of California. In it, he recognizes nearly $20 billion in additional revenue compared to his January budget, and the new revenue flows through to higher Proposition 98 funding across the three-year budget window. For TK-12 schools, the revised plan represents a meaningful improvement over both the January proposal and the 2025 Budget Act, though several Administration policy choices will give district leaders reason to push back.
Top-Line Funding Picture
The Department of Finance estimates the Prop 98 Guarantee will rise about $6.4 billion above January figures, and roughly $28 billion higher than assumed in the 2025 Budget Act across the three-year budget window. The May Revision sets the 2024-25 Guarantee at $124.9 billion, 2025-26 at $125.1 billion, and 2026-27 at $127.1 billion.
With this improved revenue picture, the May Revision proposes a 4.31% “super-COLA” for the Local Control Funding Formula – although not without strings attached, which we discuss below. A 2.87% statutory COLA will also apply to other categorical programs including Special Education and Nutrition. Special education receives an additional $2.4 billion to raise the per-pupil base rate to $1,340, up from $999 in January. The Administration also proposes a $5 billion one-time discretionary block grant (up from $2.8 billion in January), which translates to more than $900 per student using 2025-26 statewide ADA. Finally, the Prop 98 Reserve would end the budget year at $10.3 billion, a significant cushion if growth slows.
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Are you looking for your next opportunity in education or trying to find the perfect candidate for your small school district?
The SSDA Job Board is your go-to hub for job postings across California’s small and rural school districts! Interested in posting on SSDA's job board? Please email gwen@ssda.org.
Explore job openings below or post a position here: https://www.ssda.org/page/jobs
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Thank you, Signature Partners!
Click each logo to learn more about our Signature Partners.
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