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SCCSBA President's Message by Chris Norwood

Welcome Back!

Welcome back! I hope you had an opportunity this summer to recharge, spend time with family and friends, and reflect on the incredible responsibility we share in serving the nearly 250,000 students across Santa Clara County.

This year, SCCSBA has an exciting lineup of opportunities designed to strengthen governance, build relationships, and keep us informed on the issues shaping public education. We'll kick off the year with our Welcome Back Reception, featuring a special conversation with California School Boards Association CEO & Executive Director Vernon M. Billy. Throughout the year, we'll explore topics including educational advocacy, crisis management, artificial intelligence, school finance, data-driven decision-making, public relations, legislative priorities, and much more through our Lunch & Learn series, evening meetings, networking events, AI Convening, Legislative Brunch, and Hoffmann Awards Dinner.

Our goal this year is to have at least two trustees from 80% of our school districts actively participating in SCCSBA events, gathering their feedback and growing stronger on behalf of the Santa Clara County students we serve. When multiple board members learn together, conversations continue in the boardroom, stronger governance practices emerge, and our collective voice becomes more influential throughout the county and in Sacramento.

Whether you're a newly elected trustee, running for re-election, a veteran board member, or a superintendent, your experience and perspective are valuable. I encourage you to attend the SCCSBA events, invite a fellow trustee, ask questions, volunteer to serve on a committee, and help us build an even stronger community of educational leaders.

Together, we can strengthen public education, support one another through today's challenges, and ensure every student has the opportunity to reach their unlimited potential to thrive.

Warm regards,

Chris Norwood

President, 2026–2027

Santa Clara County School Boards Association

One County. Every Student. Unlimited Potential to Thrive.

How can SCCSBA better serve you?

As the 2026 - 2027 SCCSBA President, I welcome your ideas, district success stories, legislative priorities, and suggestions to improve public education in Santa Clara County. If you'd like to volunteer, serve on a committee, present a promising practice, or help strengthen our countywide coalition, I'd love to hear from you.

Please visit our website at sccsba.org for all of our upcoming events.

September 12 SCCSBA Reception with Special Guest

CSBA CEO & Executive Director Vernon Billy

As a new school year begins, you're invited to SCCSBA's Welcome Back Reception on Saturday, Sept 12, 2026 from 1:30-4:00 PM, hosted by SCCSBA Immediate Past President Shali Sirkay.

Connect with colleagues, learn about SCCSBA activities for 2026-2027 school year, and participate in a meet and greet Q&A session with special guest California School Boards Association CEO & Executive Director Vernon M. Billy. Please send questions for Mr. Billy to president@sccsba.org no later than Sept 1, 2026. Together, we'll begin a year of collaboration and leadership. 

One County. Every Student. Unlimited Potential to Thrive. 

September 18 SCCSBA Zoom Meeting

Topic: Advancing Educational Advocacy

Come and join us for our first Lunch and Learn meeting of the new school year on Friday, September 18 from 12-1 PM on zoom. The topic will be Advancing Educational Advocacy, and our featured guest speaker will be Pamela Ferran, our California School Boards Association PACER (public affairs and community engagement representative). All trustees are invited to attend. There will be plenty of time for questions, as we look at how boards and boardmembers can effectively advocate at the regional, state and federal levels. Look for the zoom link in your email inbox.

September 23 SCCSBA Zoom Meeting

Topic: Crisis Management for School Districts

We invite all trustees to our first evening meeting of the new school year on Wednesday, September 23 from 7-8:30 PM on zoom. Our topic will be Crisis Management for School Districts, and our featured guest speaker will be Jennifer Gravem, Director of Public Affairs at SCCOE. She will be discussing the best practices and resources available for Crisis Management for school districts. There will also be plenty of time for questions, as this has become an increasingly important topic for school districts and school boards in recent years. Look for the zoom link in your email inbox.

Invitation to October 14 SCCSBA Annual Fall Dinner

AI – The Great Debate: Preparing Students for an AI-Powered Future

Click here to register: https://sccsba.ticketspice.com/2026-annual-fall-dinner

One of the highlights of the SCCSBA year is our Annual Fall Dinner. It is an evening that brings together school board trustees, superintendents, and a few select leaders from across Santa Clara County to connect, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. This year's event promises to be one of our most engaging and thought-provoking gatherings yet.

We are honored to welcome Ahmad Thomas, CEO of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, as our keynote speaker. As one of California's leading voices on innovation, workforce development, and responsible artificial intelligence, Ahmad will share insights into how AI in Silicon Valley is transforming education, the workforce, and communities around the world. 

Featured Speaker

Ahmad Thomas

CEO, Silicon Valley Leadership Group

Learn more:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmad-thomas-5a2748/
• https://www.svlg.org/responsible-ai/

The Great AI Debate

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how students learn, how educators teach, and how school districts operate. But what do students think? Following the keynote, attendees will experience The Great AI Debate, featuring a panel of Santa Clara County high school students from Milpitas who will debate the opportunities, challenges, and ethical questions surrounding artificial intelligence in education and society. Hear firsthand how the next generation views AI's impact on learning, creativity, careers, and the future of public education. This unique student-led discussion will provide trustees and superintendents with valuable insights into the perspectives of the students we serve and spark meaningful conversations that can inform local governance and policy.

Why Attend?

• Hear from one of Silicon Valley's leading voices on responsible AI.
• Gain practical insights into the future of AI and its implications for public education.
• Listen directly to students discussing how AI is shaping their learning and future aspirations.
• Connect with trustees, superintendents, and educational leaders from across Santa Clara County.
• Strengthen relationships, share ideas, and build partnerships that benefit all students.

Whether you are a new trustee or an experienced educational leader, this signature event offers an exceptional opportunity to learn, network, and engage in conversations that will shape the future of education.

Event Details

Wednesday, October 14, 2026

6:00–9:00 p.m.

Maggiano's Little Italy Restaurant, 3055 Olin Ave Ste 1000, San Jose, CA 95128 

We encourage every district to send multiple trustees and district leaders as we continue working together under this year's theme:



One County. Every Student. Unlimited Potential To Thrive.

See you on October 14!

SCCSBA Legislative Action Committee Update

Over the summer, the Santa Clara County School Boards Association (SCCSBA) Legislative Action Committee (LAC) continued its work to stay informed, connected, and responsive to the legislative issues affecting our schools and communities. In June, we gathered for our annual LAC retreat, graciously hosted by Trustee John Horner, providing an opportunity to reflect on our advocacy work, strengthen our collaboration, and prepare for the months ahead. Throughout the summer, we have also continued monitoring several key bills and legislative developments that may impact public education.

As we begin the new school year, the LAC has turned its attention to reviewing and updating SCCSBA’s annual legislative priorities. We held our first meeting in August and have begun the process of evaluating our priorities in light of the current legislative landscape and the needs of our students, districts, and communities. We look forward to sharing our updated countywide priorities in September and continuing our work to ensure that the voice of Santa Clara County school boards is represented clearly and effectively in Sacramento and beyond.

We are also excited to collaborate with SCCSBA leadership on a presentation at the UNITY Conference, taking place in San José from August 27–30. We invite all SCCSBA members to join us and learn more about our legislative advocacy work, priorities, and how school board members can strengthen their collective voice in shaping education policy. We look forward to seeing you there!

We want to welcome and thank our Legislative Action Committee team for 2026-27:

LAC Chair Isabel Jubes-Flamerich (Sunnyvale School District))

LAC Vice Chair Tuyen Fiack (Gilroy Unified School District)

LAC Co-Scheduler Bridget Watson (Sunnyvale School District)

LAC Co-Scheduler Carol Presunka (Cambrian School District)

LAC Secretary John Horner (Morgan Hill Unified School District)

Jason Baker (Campbell Union High School District)

Theresa Bond (Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District)

Jennifer Petroff (Union School District)

Patti Andrade (Evergreen School District)

Virginia Varela-Campos (Orchard School District)

Jesus Salazar (Luther Burbank School District)

Jose Magana (San Jose Unified School District)

Pat Carpio-Aguilar (Fremont Union High School District)

Frances Herbert (Oak Grove School District)

Hong Ha Hoang (Franklin-McKinley School District)

Shali Sirkay (Los Altos School District)

Jessica Speiser (Santa Clara County Board of Education)

Chris Norwood, SCCSBA President

Devon Conley, CSBA Region 20 Director



Want to learn more about our legislative advocacy work? Contact SCCSBA LAC Chair Isabel Jubes at lac@sccsba.org.

Orchard School District



170 Years of Excellence at Orchard School District



This year, Orchard School District proudly celebrates 170 years of serving students and families. Founded in 1856, Orchard is one of the oldest school districts in Santa Clara County and has grown from a one-room schoolhouse into a thriving TK–8 district dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and community. Throughout generations of change, Orchard has remained committed to preparing students for success while honoring its rich history and traditions. As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our gratitude to the students, families, staff, alumni, and community members whose support has shaped our legacy. Here's to 170 years of learning, growth, and Bruin Pride!

Alum Rock Union School District

New Superintendent Dr. Marnie Hazelton



Dr. Marnie Hazelton is the new Superintendent of the Alum Rock Union School District and a nationally recognized education leader dedicated to innovative, equitable, and student-centered public education. With more than two decades of leadership experience, she has improved student achievement, expanded career and technical education, strengthened community partnerships, and championed technology, artificial intelligence, and experiential learning. Previously serving as superintendent in Englewood (NJ), Linden (NJ), and Roosevelt (NY), she has led transformational academic growth, secured millions in grant funding, and advanced opportunities for students and staff. Dr. Hazelton is the recipient of numerous national leadership awards and remains committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

Cupertino Union School District



New Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Hawn

Dr. Jennifer Hawn has served in California public education for over 25 years, dedicating her career to student success and academic excellence. Her extensive leadership roles include Classroom Teacher, Principal, Chief Academic Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, University Instructor, Deputy Superintendent, and Superintendent. In July 2026, Dr. Hawn was appointed CUSD Superintendent.

Beyond her district leadership, Dr. Hawn also contributes to the broader educational field by publishing in educational journals and presenting at state conferences, including speaking on the development of STEM pathways at the CDE STEM Conference.

Dr. Hawn holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Arizona State University, a Master of Arts in Teaching English from Loyola Marymount University, and a Doctorate in Education from the University of Southern California.

Los Gatos Union School District

New Superintendent Dan Deguara

Superintendent Dan Deguara has dedicated more than 25 years to public education, serving students and families in a variety of leadership roles in the Bay Area. Prior to his current role, he served as Superintendent of the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District. Earlier in his career, he was an Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services in Evergreen School District, as well as an elementary school principal and classroom teacher. Dan earned his bachelor's degree, teaching credential, master's degree, and administrative credential from Santa Clara University. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to fostering high-quality learning environments, supporting educators, and building strong partnerships with students, families, staff, and the community.

Palo Alto Unified School District

New Superintendent Dr. Jason E. Glass

Dr. Jason E. Glass is a nationally recognized education leader with over 25 years of experience leading complex PreK–12 systems, state education agencies, and higher education institutions. His career has focused on advancing equity, deeper learning, and student-centered innovation — while building strong, trusting relationships with communities, educators, and governing boards. He brings a proven record of improving outcomes for all students, leading through complex change, and developing inclusive, future-focused learning environments.

Dr. Glass most recently served as Superintendent of the Laguna Beach Unified School District, where he supported instructional initiatives producing a 19 percentage-point within-year Tier 1 reading gain and a restorative practices framework that reduced district suspension rates to 1%. Previously, Dr. Glass served as Commissioner of Education for the Commonwealth of Kentucky — leading 690,000 students, 1,400 schools, and a statewide workforce of 40,000 educators. He launched the United We Learn initiative, a comprehensive vision for deeper learning and equity, implemented statewide DEIB policy reform, and guided Kentucky's COVID-19 response and recovery.  

Union School District

Union School District Celebrates Completion of

Several Bond-Funded Projects Across the District

Thanks to the strong support of local voters through Bond Measure J (2014) and Measure R (2022), Union School District is highlighting over $57 million in capital projects completed or underway across the district in 2026.

Members of the Board of Trustees, district and school staff, and community members recently gathered to celebrate the opening of several major facilities, including the reimagined Dartmouth Middle School Library and Wellness Center (pictured below), new modular classrooms at Carlton Elementary, and brand-new, inclusive playgrounds at every elementary school in the district. Additional projects included HVAC replacements, reroofing at multiple schools, and upgraded technology devices and infrastructure.

"Our community's ongoing support of Measure J and Measure R is directly transforming student spaces," said Superintendent Dr. Carrie Andrews. "These modern spaces enhance daily learning and student well-being today, while ensuring Union School District remains strong and well-equipped for generations to come."

Milpitas Unified School District

Beyond The Hills: Calaveras Hills HS students share life experiences, challenges

“Beyond The Hills,” a compilation of short stories by the Calaveras Hills High School Class of 2026, including one of their teachers, paints vivid pictures of the trials and tribulations, crossroads moments, and inspirational comebacks for these young adults as they embark on their life-career paths to find their true selves.

“We as the student body have written [our] personal life stories in this book to show diversity among students and to give a brighter idea of a student’s life and experience,” wrote CHHS as part of the book’s dedication to teachers, staff and students. While the compilation is signed by each student author, the submissions are anonymous. It can now be purchased on Barnes & Noble.

The student authors of “Beyond the Hills” show vulnerability, acceptance, perseverance, and self-reflection with a purpose in mind. “We all have stories to tell, each of them unique and beautiful in their own way,” they wrote. “The Class of 2026 has created this book in hopes our stories resonate with and inspire others. Read more

Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District

The Culture We’re Building:

LGSUHSD Celebrates 94% Staff Culture Score

LGSUHSD welcomed staff back for the 2026–27 school year with a focus on “The Culture We’re Building.” Superintendent Heath Rocha shared an inspiring message centered on a simple but powerful belief: when we take care of our staff and each other, our staff are better able to take care of our students.

The message was reinforced by the 2026 CalSCHLS Staff Survey results, which gave LGSUHSD an overall culture score of 94%, with 93% of staff describing their schools as supportive and inviting places to work and 96% of staff reporting that their colleagues treat each other with respect. Just three to four years ago, several of these measures were in the 60% range, making this growth especially meaningful and worth celebrating. You can see a fun staff welcome back video here (Facebook, Instagram)

Saratoga Union School District

Saratoga Union School District Completes Major Summer Projects

Before New School Year

“While summer break meant the high-energy laughter and play paused at Saratoga Union School District, hard work was underway behind the scenes to prepare for the 2026-2027 school year that kicked off on August 13,” said Superintendent Dr. Ken Geisick. “Across the District, there were major campus refreshes and modernization projects that reflect the deep care, pride and attention we invest in our facilities every day.”

They include (pictured, top and bottom left to right):

●       Argonaut Elementary, Saratoga Elementary and Redwood Middle School: The District leveled out those pesky gopher holes to ensure a safer environment for students to play while giving the grass a fresh back-to-school look for the fall by completely resodding the fields at Argonaut and Saratoga elementary schools, and reseeding at Redwood Middle School.

●       Argonaut Elementary School: The interior classroom wings were repainted for all the interior areas and hallways in buildings one through three.

●       Foothill Elementary School: There were no major updates because they hosted the Jumpstart Enrichment Program, where 172 students participated in social-emotional learning, teambuilding, physical education and enrichment. The Saratoga News featured the program in the July 31 edition of their newspaper and online edition. Also on site, 105 students participated in Academic Summer School, ESY and SDC, learning and reinforcing skills. Despite having no facilities improvements over the summer, this past spring the Foothill library was repainted inside and in summer 2025 the school received roof replacements and multipurpose room repainting. All sites districtwide also received LED interior lighting replacement.

●       Saratoga Elementary School: A concrete accessibility pathway was created that leads to the school garden from the asphalt by the basketball courts.

●       Redwood Middle School: A brand-new key fob access system was installed for more than 130 doors. While this project happens largely behind the scenes, this complex work ensures our students and staff are secure from the moment they step onto campus. The orchestra room was also recarpeted and they removed the choir steps, allowing it to be flat in order to accommodate more students.

“Strong schools build a strong community, and investing in our campuses today ensures our students have vibrant, safe, and inspiring spaces to learn and grow tomorrow,” Superintendent Geisick said.

STAY CONNECTED

www.sccsba.org