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SCCSBA President's Message by Shali Sirkay
As I conclude my term as President of the Santa Clara County School Boards Association, I find myself reflecting on the theme that has guided my work throughout the year: Leadership in Changing Times.
Public education continues to face extraordinary challenges. School boards have navigated difficult conversations, evolving expectations, and increasing demands, all while remaining steadfast in our commitment to student success. As an organization, we worked together to ensure that those closest to our schools have a voice in shaping the decisions that affect them.
One of my priorities this year was to raise the visibility of the Santa Clara County School Boards Association and to create new partnerships with county and regional agencies, as well as with community organizations. I firmly believe that decisions that impact schools must include school board trustees at the table- we are uniquely positioned to bring the perspectives of students, families, educators, and communities into conversations that extend beyond district boundaries.
Through collaboration, we have strengthened relationships and expanded opportunities to address issues that no single organization can solve alone. Whether the topic is student well-being, attendance, school safety, housing insecurity, workforce development, or mental health, our students benefit when educational leaders work in partnership with county agencies and community stakeholders.
These partnerships have reinforced an important truth: leadership is not about standing alone. It is about bringing people together around a common purpose. It is about creating connections that ensure that public education remains central to the conversations that shape our communities.
I am deeply grateful to the trustees, district leaders, county partners, and SCCSBA colleagues who have shared in this work. Your dedication to students and your willingness to collaborate have made our association stronger.
As I pass the gavel to new leadership, I do so with optimism. The challenges facing public education are real, but so is the collective strength, wisdom, and commitment of those who serve. School board trustees are more than governors of their districts—we are advocates, community leaders, and champions for all students.
Thank you for the privilege of serving as your President. It has been an honor to lead alongside you. I am confident that by continuing to work together and ensuring that trustee voices are heard, we will continue to meet the challenges before us and create brighter futures for the students and communities we serve.
Yours in solidarity,
Shali
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