Newsletter | Friday, August 15, 2025 | | MCOE Welcomes Back Transportation Staff and a New Full-Size Electric Transit Bus | The Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) is proud to announce the addition of another full-size electric transit bus to its fleet. This latest upgrade replaces a 1998 diesel-powered school bus with a brand-new 2024 battery-electric model, furthering MCOE’s commitment to sustainable and student-centered transportation. | |
This eco-friendly advancement was made possible through a grant from the Monterey Bay Air Resources District (MBARD) and funding from the AB 617 Community Air Protection (CAPP) Program. CAPP is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that channels Cap-and-Trade dollars into projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance public health, and improve environmental outcomes, particularly in disadvantaged communities.
The new electric bus will support safe and reliable home-to-school transportation for students across Monterey County. As the need for enhanced wheelchair-accessible transportation continues to grow, this vehicle ensures that MCOE can meet the evolving accessibility needs of both its student population.
These recent efforts to introduce electric buses into MCOE's fleet were led by Transportation Manager Jarrett Garife and former Transportation Manager Patrick DeBerdt. Their forward-thinking leadership has laid the foundation for MCOE’s ongoing transition toward an all-electric fleet. MCOE is proud to continue investing in clean transportation solutions that support student success, community health, and a more sustainable future.
| | | Community Rallies to Support Students at Soledad Backpack Giveaway | |
On Sunday, August 10, Monterey County Board of Education Member Jaime Fernandez joined community members in Soledad for a heartwarming back-to-school event aimed at supporting families in need. The backpack giveaway, sponsored by Board Member Jaime Fernandez's son, Jeremiah Fernandez (pictured 4th from the left), and his business partner Alexis Mata (pictured 2nd from the left), who are owners of It’s Happy Hour Monterey Bay, brought together residents, businesses, and volunteers for a day of generosity and celebration.
The event had an impressive turnout, with 350 backpacks filled with essential school supplies distributed to local students. To help children start the year feeling confident, 172 free haircuts were provided. Several vendors donated their time, services, and delicious offerings, including Soledad Hair Company, Lolitas Ice Cream, Naranjo Drippin Eats, Bingo Market, Dutch Bros of Soledad, Genuine Transportation, Soledad Mission District Pool, and American Revolution.
As the new school year begins, this gathering served as both a celebration and a reminder of the importance of preparing students for academic success, not just with supplies, but with a sense of care and support from the entire community.
| “Everyone Belongs” Mural Finds Permanent Home at MCOE | |
A vibrant new piece of public art, titled “Everyone Belongs,” has found its permanent home at the Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE). The mural celebrates queer youth and the strength of community, sending a powerful message of belonging to all who enter the space.
Created by local artists Paul Richmond and Briden Schueren in collaboration with the You Will Rise Project team, the mural was shaped by the voices and creativity of young people from across Monterey County. The design began in elementary and middle schools during Monterey County Behavioral Health’s Rainbow Connections expressive arts workshops, then came to life during a week of collaborative painting at The Epicenter.
The mural made its public debut at the Pink Shirt Day event at Northridge Mall, then a temporary display at the Board of Supervisors during the month of June, before being permanently installed at MCOE on August 5. Featuring bold, interconnected imagery, “Everyone Belongs” symbolizes unity, courage, and self-expression.
| Now on display in a central and meaningful location, the mural serves as an enduring reminder of MCOE’s commitment to fostering safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces for all students, staff, and community members. | | Local Education Leaders Join U.S. Representative Panetta to Address Federal Funding Delays | |
Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) hosted a press conference on Monday, July 28, at Seaside High School in the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD). Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss joined Congressman Panetta and other regional education leaders to raise concerns over billions of dollars in federal education grants that had been frozen by the Trump Administration.
Just one week before the press conference, the U.S. Department of Education announced it would reverse the freeze. While the decision was welcomed, school leaders emphasized that it remained unclear how much funding districts would ultimately receive, or when. Normally, these funds are distributed by July 1, leaving educators frustrated with the delay.
Speakers included MPUSD Superintendent Dr. PK Diffenbaugh, Santa Cruz County Board of Education President Abel Sanchez, Alisal Union School District Superintendent Monica Anzo, and Pajaro Valley Unified School District Education Specialist Minc Robinson Brooker.
| Last year, Monterey County used more than $25 million in federal grants to support critical programs for English learners, migrant education, afterschool activities, teacher training, and more. Leaders stressed that timely and reliable funding is essential to ensuring these programs continue without disruption. | YWCA Monterey County Hosts Back-to-School Drive and Mixer | |
Young Women’s Christian Association Monterey County (YWCA) was excited to host its Back-to-School Drive and Mixer on Friday, July 25. The event was dedicated to ensuring children who have experienced the challenges of domestic abuse started the school year with the tools they needed to succeed.
Donations of new backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and other essential school supplies were collected and distributed to children receiving services through our shelter, housing, and therapy programs. Every contribution helped empower young learners and eased the transition into a new academic year.
The mixer also provided a valuable opportunity to connect with our dedicated team, network with community leaders, and explore potential collaborations. Attendees collaborated as they worked together to create lasting, positive change in our community. By joining forces, the YWCA made a meaningful difference, one backpack, one notebook, and one child at a time.
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MCOE proudly congratulates Director of District Advisory Services, Dr. Biljana Tatomirovic, in the Finance and Business Division, on earning her Doctor of Business Administration degree with a specialization in International Business Leadership from the Swiss School of Business and Management, Geneva.
Her doctoral research, "The Impact of Higher Education on Leadership Styles in California Local Educational Agencies and How They Affect Turnover Rates and Job Satisfaction in Classified Employment," adds valuable insight to the field of educational leadership.
We celebrate this incredible achievement and commend her dedication, scholarship, and commitment to lifelong learning.
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MCOE proudly congratulates Manager of Transportation, Dr. Jarrett Garife, in the General Services Division, on earning his Doctor of Philosophy in Education, specializing in Education Law, from Liberty University.
His dissertation, "California's Home-to-School Transportation Program Funding and Rising Transportation Costs Impact on K-12 Public Education Pupil Transportation: A Multiple Case Study of California K-12 Public Education Chief Business Officials," explores the challenges posed by stagnant state funding and rising operational costs for pupil transportation, offering valuable insights for California’s school districts and county offices of education.
We commend Dr. Garife’s dedication, scholarship, and commitment to advancing the field of education.
| | | Join the next Inside Education Tour | | Salinas City Elementary School District Kicks Off New Year with Special Guests | | The Salinas City Elementary School District (SCESD) officially welcomed staff back for the 2025-26 school year during a spirited Welcome Back Kickoff event on Monday, August 4. Held for approximately 800 teachers, staff members, administrators, and board members, the gathering set a positive tone for the year ahead. The celebration featured a surprise visit from State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, who greeted educators with words of gratitude for their dedication to students. Superintendent Thurmond also pledged to continue advocating for California’s public schools, including standing firm against federal threats to public education. | | | The event drew an impressive roster of honored guests, including Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss, County Board of Education members, community partners, and local elected officials. A program highlight was the Student Voice Panel, where students from across the district shared what they enjoy about school, what they appreciate in their teachers, and their hopes for the year ahead. Their candid insights offered a valuable reminder of the direct impact educators have on students’ daily lives. The program included an inspiring keynote from Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle, leaving attendees energized and ready to embark on the new school year. | | |
| | August is Overdose Awareness Month | |
Montage Health Prescribe Safe’s new campaign video, Every Action Counts, highlights simple yet powerful ways each of us can make a difference. This year, we invite you to be the reason someone survives!
Together, we can: Reduce stigma around substance use, use language that puts the person before their condition, carry naloxone and know how to use it, show compassion, promote understanding, and save lives.
| | | | Bring the whole family on Sunday, September 7, from 12 to 4 p.m. at the Salinas Rodeo Grounds, 1034 N. Main Street, to explore over 50 amazing vehicles, watch the exciting Cal Star helicopter landing, enjoy delicious food trucks, arts & crafts, live entertainment, and more! Admission is just $5 per person (kids under 2 are free). All proceeds benefit Coastal Kids Home Care. For tickets, text TAT to 53-555 or visit coastalkidshomecare.org. | |
Auditions for the 2026 Monterey Jazz Regional All-Star Ensembles are now open. More details about the auditions are available on each ensemble page.
Monterey Jazz Regional All-Star
Monterey Jazz Regional All-Star Vocal Ensemble
Jazz Regional Middle School Combo
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MCOE is sponsoring a Community Blood Drive on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Register now, as spots are filling up fast. Identification is required.
Receive a free exclusive Red Cross x PEANUTS shirt while supplies last. If you have questions regarding your eligibility to donate blood, please call 1-866-236-3276.
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The August 2025 issue of Monterey Bay Parent celebrates back-to-school and end-of-summer fun. Plus, it’s time for their annual Back to School Bash!
See a list of August recommendations for “can’t miss” events in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties.
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The County of Monterey is holding a special one-day surplus donation event on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 11 am to Noon at 1488 Schilling Place in Salinas, offering used office furniture and equipment to local non-profit organizations and teachers at no cost.
For teachers: Required proof of current teaching status such as badge/business card from current employer or teaching certificate.
Items will not be released for free without the required documentation, which can be brought to the surplus event or can be mailed or faxed in advance to:
County of Monterey
Contracts/Purchasing Division
1488 Schilling Place
Salinas, CA 93901
Fax to: (831) 755-4969 Attn: Contracts/Purchasing Division, Surplus
If you have questions about the event, please contact the County of Monterey Contracts and Purchasing Department at 831-755-4990.
| | | | WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! | | |
Sharing information with the community is important to us. If you have information pertaining to education in Monterey County, such as events or scholarship opportunities that you would like to see featured in the MCOE newsletter, please email the information, including photos or flyers, to communications@montereycoe.org, and we will review your request. Thank you for your support!
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