A special message from Dr. Troy Brown, San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools.
Schools across the county are back in session. Here’s a look at the first days back!
The SJCOE hosts 2nd annual National Night Out at Banner Island Ballpark.
Students from SJCOE one.Program experience college life at University of the Pacific Summer Institute.
First awards ceremony held to recognize county students receiving State Seal of Civic Engagement.
Transforming everyday support into magical experiences.
Meet the 2025 awardees and finalists recognized as outstanding teachers and classified employees. Plus, meet the School Counselor of the Year.
Discover the many opportunities for outdoor education experiences for students to learn science, art, and more.
Connect with the SJCOE on social media, and get a glimpse at what you missed this summer.
LOOKING
Learn more about upcoming events, meetings, trainings, and workshops for students, families, and educators on the San Joaquin County Office of Education calendar at www.sjcoe.org/calendar
TROY A. BROWN, Ed.D. San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools
TERRELL MARTINEZ
Deputy Superintendent Business Services
JANINE KAESLIN
Deputy Superintendent Student Programs and Services
JANE CHAMBERLAIN
Deputy Superintendent Professional Learning and Support
ANNIE CUNIAL
Assistant Superintendent Educational Services
CONNOR SLOAN
Assistant Superintendent County Operated Schools and Programs
PETER FOGGIATO
Assistant Superintendent Business Services
ANTHONY CHAPMAN Chief Human Resources Officer
The San Joaquin County Office of Education is a regional agency that provides educational leadership, resources, and customized services to assist school districts. The SJCOE promotes student achievement and accountability, serves San Joaquin County’s most vulnerable students, and strives to create an environment in which every student, regardless of circumstances, has an opportunity for a quality education.
IT’S BACK TO SCHOOL TIME!
Returning to the friendly faces and fun activities missed over the summer break is part of what makes this an exciting time of year for students and educators alike.
But the first day of school is also the start of new experiences and introductions. It’s the next step on students’ educational pathway to their futures, where they meet new people all along the way.
Many students will make strong connections that will help them find their way and overcome any challenges that may arise.
Meaningful relationships are so important to their success. So, I am starting out this new school year thinking about the strength of these connections by reflecting on the commencement ceremonies I attended last school year. Besides the opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the students, I also get to learn about the strong connections between educator and student that make the celebrations possible.
I would like to share one example that stands out. In May, I attended the Special Education Programs Commencement Ceremony for San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) and Tracy Unified School District students. When students reach the age of 22, they graduate from our special education
STRONGER CONNECTIONS. Brighter futures.
A back-to-school message from San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Troy Brown
programs to continue their journeys elsewhere. But they make such an impression while they are here.
At this ceremony, the teachers take turns at the microphone to share individual stories about their students, who sit in rows facing the audience. It is easy to tell which student the teacher is talking about. Their smiling faces light up the room the whole time their teachers are recounting stories or highlighting their accomplishments. The love these teachers have for their students is inspiring. When it was teacher Megan Berg’s turn to speak, it was clear how much this meant to them. Each student was nodding and smiling in appreciation. They were engaged with their teacher, and they were so proud of the comments Ms. Berg made about each of them. It was truly heartwarming.
This is what a strong connection to a student looks like. It’s what all school staff work to build from the first day of school onward.
There are also connections important to education that do not necessarily take place in the classroom. In school and district offices, teams support one another in a shared mission to serve students. At the SJCOE, we also provide training, networking opportunities, and direct support to schools and districts in San Joaquin County where educators learn alongside and from one another. We will strive to continue to
implement our Building to Serve strategic plan while moving forward with initiatives focused on early literacy, leadership, career readiness and outreach, and outdoor learning and the arts.
The more we work together, the better it is for all students. We can help students overcome barriers, reach new milestones, and move forward toward their future success. And as the educational landscape changes and creates new challenges, our connections make us more resilient and help us keep our focus on educating and serving our students.
So, welcome back, students, families, and educators of San Joaquin County. Make it a great year, for yourselves and others.
Sincerely,
Troy A. Brown, Ed.D. County Superintendent of Schools
THE MORE WE WORK TOGETHER, THE BETTER IT IS FOR ALL STUDENTS. WE CAN HELP STUDENTS OVERCOME BARRIERS, REACH NEW MILESTONES, AND MOVE FORWARD TOWARD THEIR FUTURE SUCCESS.
Find these photos and more in the Back-to-School album on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/thesjcoe.
SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY’S 14 SCHOOL DISTRICTS
Banta Unified
Escalon Unified
Jefferson Elementary
Lammersville Unified
Lincoln Unified
Linden Unified
Lodi Unified
Manteca Unified
New Hope Elementary
New Jerusalem Elementary
Oak View Union Elementary
Ripon Unified
Stockton Unified Tracy Unified
AN OUT OF THE PARK EVENING
The SJCOE hosts 2nd annual National Night Out at Banner Island Ballpark
The San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE), in partnership with Downtown Stockton Alliance, Main Street Youth & Family Services, and the Stockton Ports, co-hosted the Annual Downtown Stockton National Night Out block party on Aug. 5 at the Stockton Ports’ stadium– Banner Island Ballpark.
National Night Out (NNO) is a nationwide community-building campaign to foster positive relationships with neighbors, law enforcement, and military members. The SJCOE and partners identified an opportunity to provide a free, family-friendly event where community members get to rediscover their neighborhood. This is the fifth year the SJCOE has sponsored the community engagement event.
On Aug. 5, 42 vendors lined the concourse around Banner Island Ballpark. From Behavioral Health Services, San Joaquin County Office of Emergency Services, and the Mexican Heritage Center to the United States Army, Stockton Police Department, and San Joaquin County Probation, attendees visited each booth to learn about resources available to them right here in their community. Over 750 community members were able to attend and cheer on the Stockton Ports against the Modesto Nuts.
County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Troy A. Brown was joined by Girl Scout and Stagg High School student — Makayla — to throw the first pitch.
SJCOE programs — from Teachers College of San Joaquin, Go San Joaquin, STEM department, YouthBuild San Joaquin, Student Engagement & the Arts, and more — were also in attendance representing the myriad of departments and support the organization offers students, families, and the community.
The SJCOE Human Resources and recruitment booth was also present, highlighting current job openings. “We want the community to know there are wonderful job opportunities at the SJCOE, and we’re committed to connecting with and supporting our community as we grow our team,” said Katie Turner, recruitment coordinator for the SJCOE.
Between visiting resource booths, enjoying the NNO hot dog meal deal, and watching an all-American baseball game, the evening was a home run!
To learn more about National Night Out, visit natw.org.
To view current job openings at the SJCOE, visit sjcoe.org/careers
one . PACIFIC
one.Program students experience college life at University of the Pacific Summer Institute
The sounds of high school students singing spilled out into one of the courtyards bordered by ivy-covered brick walls at the University of the Pacific campus in Stockton.
Inside the rehearsal hall, the students were putting the final touches on a number they had been learning for the past two weeks. Their instructors had them thinking about the lyrics, the music, the choreography, and their characters while tapping into their own life experiences to bring their performances to life.
It was intense, and it sounded beautiful as it all came together.
It was just one class of many at the Pacific Summer High School Institute, a two-week residential pre-college summer program designed for curious high school students to live, learn and grow. Students become immersed in cutting-edge topics and issues through learning environments focused on real-world, hands-on experiences in our labs, studios, fields and makerspaces.
For the first time last summer, students from the SJCOE one.Program attended the Summer Institute. Two of the nine students from the one.Program were in the choir class. Alexa, a senior, had sung at church before – but this took her to the next level. Genesis,
a sophomore, hadn’t really sung before, but this gave her confidence — and not just when it comes to singing.
“It makes me feel more independent,” she said, describing all the activities and options she could choose to partake in while living the college life on the Pacific campus. “I’m making my own priorities.”
Both students have college in their sights — but the Summer Institute will keep them focused on the goal of getting there. “This is motivating me to keep my grades up,” Alexa said.
Going to the summer institute doesn’t just show students what college is like— it gives them a chance to really understand it is an option for them, even if they are the first in their family to go to college, said one.Program’s Michael Wright.
"It might not be something they are thinking about right now. Maybe it will get some students to think: I can go to college,’” he said. "They can see themselves going to the college.”
It’s about more than just the experience, he said. Students also learn about the resources and support that can get them there and make it more affordable.
GRADUATES RECOGNIZED FOR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
First awards ceremony held to recognize county students receiving State Seal of Civic Engagement
In May 2024, the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) held the county's first awards ceremony to celebrate graduating seniors receiving the State Seal of Civic Engagement.
Students who graduate with a State Seal of Civic Engagement are recognized for demonstrating excellence in civics education and having an understanding of the U.S. Constitution, California Constitution, and the democratic system of government. They must do more than demonstrate knowledge — they need to show that they have taken action, too.
"Earning the State Seal of Civic Engagement prepares students to be active, informed citizens. It encourages participation, critical thinking, and leadership — skills that extend far beyond graduation," said San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Troy Brown. "They are better equipped to use their voice and their power to make a positive impact in the world, for themselves and for their community."
Also present at the ceremony was Susan Talamantes Eggman, who has served the San Joaquin community for many years on the Stockton City Council, in the State
Assembly, and in the State Senate. While in the California Legislature, she authored the bill creating the State Seal of Civic Engagement.
Districts from across San Joaquin County are part of a growing number in the state offering this honor to graduates. In all, 86 graduates in the county received the golden seal on their diplomas. Those recognized came from Linden Unified School District, Stockton Unified School District, Venture Academy Family of Schools, and the SJCOE's one.Program.
Madalyn, a graduate from the one.Program who spoke at the event, talked about an assignment in her government class that called on students to identify issues in the community that had an impact on them and the people they know. The group chose to focus on violence, and they helped push for an upcoming antiviolence conference to educate students about the issue and the choices they can make.
"For those of us in the group who are graduating, we knew our work would have a long-time impact on students in Stockton," she said. "This project taught me that a small idea can lead to something bigger."
THE CENTER OF VENTURE
Venture Academy invests in wellness of students on campus
Venture Academy Family of Schools has expanded and relocated its wellness center to the school’s main campus building, creating a centralized space designed to better serve students’ social-emotional needs. The goal of the move was to make the wellness center more accessible, visible, and connected to other vital student services.
Previously located in a separate area of campus, the center is now adjacent to the counseling center and the mental health clinician’s office. This joint space allows for a stronger collaboration between counselors, clinicians, and other student-support staff, ensuring wraparound services are available in one convenient location.
The expansion also means that more students will benefit from the services. In addition to supporting high school students, the center will now serve middle school students, providing age-appropriate ways for younger students to access the space.
“We believe being more centrally located will help even more students access the center,” shared Jeremy Sinclair, who serves as a counselor at Venture Academy.
He also oversaw the implementation of the original wellness center — from securing grant funding to decorating and curating welcoming spaces to determining activities, services, and resources for students — and is thrilled with the expansion.
Students will notice both familiar and new features in the refreshed space. The calming water feature, a favorite element from the original center, has been carried over, and the open design still emphasizes inviting conversation and reflection. The new layout also includes direct access to counseling offices, allowing students seamless entry into additional supports when needed. “The new space keeps the same concept of openness and welcoming, but also having our clinician offices here will provide even better access to services,” said Sinclair.
The central location places the center near other key resources, including the health office, school psychologists, and administrative offices, fostering greater collaboration.
Younger students are also being supported through Ventureland, Venture Academy’s elementary academy, which now has its own wellness center. Accessible by teacher or counselor referral, the space includes a calming corner and wellness activities to help students reflect, refresh, and recenter.
Together, these expansions reflect Venture Academy’s commitment to building a supportive, student-centered environment across all grade levels.
BE OUR
Transforming everyday support into magical experiences
Classified employees experienced a touch of Disney customer service this summer at The Magic of Service summits, half-day trainings coordinated by the Exemplary Support and Service steering committee.
Exemplary Support and Service is one of the five pillars of Building to Serve, the San Joaquin County Office of Education’s (SJCOE) fiveyear strategic plan. As part of their work, the committee developed S.E.R.V.I.C.E. standards that were adopted organization-wide. The S.E.R.V.I.C.E. acronym reflects the SJCOE’s commitment to deliver highquality customer service that supports, engages, responds, envisions, includes, collaborates, and excels.
The summits transported participants into a whole new world of learning and fun. From the moment they walked in, attendees were reminded that creating memorable experiences for guests and colleagues is at the heart of service.
Each room highlighted one of the seven service standards, offering interactive activities and opportunities for reflection. Participants strengthened teamwork skills and discovered the value of partnerships in the “You’ve Got a Team in Me” session, reminding everyone that success shines brighter when you’re part of a team. They learned how to “Activate Your Inner Incredible” by setting personal and professional goals worthy of a superhero, and let it
go in “Do You Want to Build Connection?” — fostering empathetic communication and encouraging involvement.
To wrap up the day, everyone came together for a final celebration, complete with popcorn and recognition. Attendees wrote thank-you notes to colleagues, honoring the everyday acts of exemplary support and service.
The Magic of Service summits not only deepened the understanding of the SERVICE standards, but also celebrated the extraordinary contributions of classified employees — proving that when service is exemplary, the results are nothing short of magical.
FOR EDUCATORS, BY EDUCATORS
Teachers College of San Joaquin hosts annual conference
Teachers College of San Joaquin (TCSJ) proudly hosted EduGrowth 2025, its annual conference for educators by educators designed to empower teachers, leaders, and administrators through professional development, collaboration, and innovative educational insights.
This year’s event focused on TCSJ’s four foundational values — Rigor, Relationships, Relevance, and Reflection — with dynamic sessions that inspired and challenged participants. Educators explored best practices, strengthened instructional strategies, and connected with like-minded professionals from across the region.
Whether in the classroom, leading a school, or supporting instruction at the district level, attendees found meaningful opportunities tailored to every stage of their educational journey. With workshops, panels, and handson sessions, the conference built a strong network of resources and reignited a passion for continuous learning.
Adding to the significance of the event, TCSJ had recently completed a rigorous reaccreditation process and was granted an eight-year accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). This major milestone affirmed the college’s
unwavering commitment to excellence in educator preparation and ongoing professional growth.
EduGrowth 2025 was more than a conference—it was a celebration of the work educators do every day and a powerful platform for exploring what’s next in teaching and learning.
For more information, visit teacherscollegesj.edu
CRAIG ALLEN
System Specialist, Information Technology
Craig Allen joined the San Joaquin County Office of Education’s (SJCOE) IT department in 2019. When asked how he ended up at the SJCOE, Allen said, “I never planned for this career path, but I am thankful for it– being here now is an answered prayer.”
For the first decade of his career, Allen worked in publishing as a copyeditor and digital proofreader for companies specializing in sports-licensed paper goods. He served as a licensing liaison, partnering with major sports leagues like the NFL, MLB, NHL, and Division I colleges to ensure every product — from calendars to brochures — was picture-perfect and on brand.
“I really enjoyed writing,” Allen shared. “I graduated from Stanislaus State with a degree in English. And if it hadn’t been for a tough job market in 2018, who knows where I’d be today.”
That year, Allen’s company shut down unexpectedly. With a young family to support, he knew it was time for a new direction. As the family “tech enthusiast,” Allen was encouraged to consider a role in the tech world. He began working at Banta Elementary as a Library/ Tech Aide, a role that brought him into regular contact with the SJCOE IT team. Through weekly training sessions and support, Allen not only grew in skill but also found a strong sense of connection with the SJCOE community.
By the end of that school year, he was offered a role as a tech support specialist with SJCOE.
Allen describes the SJCOE IT department as “the gold standard of IT departments.” In his current role as a system specialist, he feels fortunate to do work that truly makes a difference. “In IT, we’re helping people with critical, timesensitive, and meaningful tasks. Supporting our schools — who directly support our communities — really matters to me. Every day feels like an opportunity to be someone’s hero.”
Allen’s dedication and commitment have not gone unnoticed. In fact, Ed Babakhan, SJCOE’s IT division director, recently nominated him for the 2025 Classified School Employee of the Year award.
“Craig’s genuine kindness and thoughtfulness consistently elevates the level of service we provide,” Babakhan shared.
For Allen, the opportunity to work at SJCOE feels like more than just a career move—it’s a blessing. “I have a tremendous amount of gratitude. SJCOE represents a second chance for me,” he said. “I’m proud to be part of an organization that believed in me.”
Allen has been married for 16 years and is a proud dad to two young boys. When he’s not troubleshooting tech issues, he enjoys camping with his family, watching cult classic movies — like Back to the Future and Star Wars — and discovering new “foodie favorite” spots with his wife.
For Allen, finding his place at SJCOE wasn’t part of the original plan — but it turned out to be exactly where he was meant to be.
WE ARE SJCOE
We Are SJCOE is a regular feature in the Outlook to celebrate members of the San Joaquin County Office of Education community. If there is someone you would like featured, email sjcoepio@sjcoe.net
Brian Neugebauer
Linden Unified School District teacher makes science instruction meaningful, accessible, and fun
With 20 years of experience as an educator, Brian Neugebauer teaches biotechnology, chemistry and other science classes at Linden High School (Linden Unified School District).
Neugebauer knows his students well. He sets high expectations and has the gift of engaging all students in the classroom. Students don’t just connect — they are excited to learn what he is teaching.
"Brian Neugebauer exemplifies what it means to be an engaging, compassionate, and effective teacher," Linden High Principal Todd Dunaway said. He believes every student is capable of success and is committed to promoting critical thinking by challenging students to explore multiple perspectives, Dunaway said. "He encourages students to question, analyze, and think deeply about concepts taught in class."
Using a mix of direct instruction, cooperative learning, online resources, and hands-on labs – Neugebauer ensures that his classroom accommodates different learning styles. His commitment to reaching all students extends to his collaboration with his school’s special education team.
One way Neugebauer said he makes connection to students’ own experiences to connect them to the subject matter is to talk about food in chemistry class.
“That’s the best part about teaching, actually seeing that lightbulb,” he said. “It’s kind of a cliché … but that’s what I strive for.”
Students say that “Mr. N.’s” humor, patience, and excitement push them to learn.
Students might not like chemistry or think it’s too hard — but not in Neugebauer’s class, said Logan, a Linden High student.
“Mr. N makes it fun. It makes people want to actually go and learn about chemistry,” he said. “It allows kids to be more invested in their learning, and they take it a little bit more seriously.”
Brian Neugebauer was named teacher of the year at the 2025 San Joaquin County Classified Employees, School Counselor, and Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration Dinner, held at the SJCOE on Thursday, April 10. The annual awards honor the best of the best in the education profession and celebrate all the talented, caring, and committed educators and school personnel who make a difference in the lives of their students and the community. Self-Help Federal Credit Union, event co-sponsor, provided $500 to each classified employee of the year winner, each teacher of the year finalist, and the school counselor of the year. The teacher of the year received $1,000.
FINALISTS FOR TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Of all the nominees submitted every year, a handful of extraordinary educators are selected to be San Joaquin County Teacher of the Year finalists. In 2025, they are:
Kristin Miller Lathrop High School
Manteca Unified School District
“Mrs. Miller transforms her classroom into a hub of academic curiosity and growth, where every student feels valued and challenged,” said Denna Crowe, Lathrop High School assistant principal. “Her methods, such as facilitated debates and scaffolded writing exercises, cultivate critical thinkers and confident communicators.”
ISAIAH STOWERS
Delta Sierra Middle School
Lodi Unified School District
“Mr. Stowers is an exemplary teacher in terms of supporting all students, both in and out of the classroom,” wrote Delta Sierra Principal Brad Watson in his nomination. “His passion for teaching is evident in his innovative lesson plans, dynamic classroom environment, and the genuine connections he fosters with students.”
SARAH SILVINSON
Tracy High School
Tracy Unified School District
“Dr. Silvinson promotes social development and responsibility within a caring community,” said Jon Waggle, Tracy High School principal. “She roots the students’ understanding of the fire service around the concept of service and the understanding that the essence of firefighting is to serve one’s community.”
Teresa Whiteside
Sierra Middle School
Lincoln Unified School District
“Teresa Whiteside’s contributions to Sierra Middle School and her community demonstrate her unwavering commitment to excellence in education,” said Lori Green, Lincoln Unified’s associate superintendent of Education Services. “Teresa’s work leaves an indelible mark on her students.”
CLASSIFIED SCHOOL EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR
Maria Franco
Clerical and Administrative Services
McKinley Elementary School
Franco has served the students at McKinley Elementary School (Stockton Unified School District) as a student support technician for more than five years. “We can always count on Mrs. Franco to support our school community,” Principal Brandy De Alba said. “She understands the family dynamics in our community and relationships that impact our school.”
Tiffanie Heben
Technical Services
Jefferson Middle School
As a library aide, Tiffanie has enriched Jefferson Middle School (Jefferson Elementary School District) for more than five years. “She possesses a remarkable ability to connect with students, creating an inviting and nurturing atmosphere in the library,” Principal Jason Strickland said. “Her innovative STEAM activities have positioned her as a leader in promoting hands-on learning, fostering an environment where students feel encouraged to explore their creativity.”
David Halla
Transportation Services
Manteca Unified School District
Part of Manteca Unified School District Nutrition Education, Halla has been a warehouseman for more than 11 years. “David understands the significant impact he has on the students receiving their meals,” said Justin Muschott, inventory supervisor. “David takes the time to engage with special needs students at his delivery locations, showing great compassion and understanding in every interaction.”
Stephanie Libhart
Security Services
Lincoln Unified School District
Libhart has been Lincoln Unified School District public safety officer for more than 12 years.
“Officer Stephanie Libhart stands out for her unwavering commitment to safety, consistently demonstrating outstanding performance across all aspects of her role,” said Lori Green, associate superintendent of Education Services.
“Her proactive approach to identifying potential risks allows her to address safety concerns before they escalate.”
Griselda Martinez
Paraprofessional
Lincoln Unified School District
As bilingual interpreter, Martinez is a valuable ambassador to the district’s Spanish-speaking community. “Griselda is a cornerstone of bilingual communication,” said Lori Green, district associate superintendent of Education Services. “Her compassionate and thoughtful approach ensures that everyone feels heard and supported.”
Marino Rillamas
Custodial and Maintenance Services
Linden Unified School District
For more than 21 years, Rillamas has been the night custodian at Linden High School (Linden Unified School District). “Marino’s leadership fosters a collaborative environment where teamwork thrives, making him an indispensable asset to both the custodial team and the school community,” Principal Todd Dunaway said. “His commitment and proactive approach inspire others, solidifying his reputation as a trusted and respected employee at Linden High School.”
Michael “Mickey” Ortega
Food and Nutrition Services
Linden Unified School District
Over six years as a warehouse distribution driver for the district, Ortega has also been the head wrestling coach at Linden High School. “He leads by example in never asking anyone to do something he wouldn’t,” said John Shallberger, director of Child Welfare and Attendance. “He is very well liked and respected by students and staff.”
Adam Showers
Health and Student Services
one.Charter Main
As a campus connection technician with seven years’ experience with the San Joaquin County Office of Education, Showers is an integral part of the one.Charter Main community. “His presence is a constant source of reassurance and support, not only for the students but also for his colleagues and the families of the school,” said Coordinator Yvette Menchaca. “Adam’s character is best seen in the way he greets everyone with a smile.”
SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY SCHOOL
COUNSELOR OF THE YEAR
MERCEDES MORALES-VILLA
Williams Middle School
Tracy Unified School District
School counselors make up an integral component of our educational system. Preparing our students for success requires a focus on the whole student — not just academics. Counselors show the way, helping students manage their emotions, cope with trauma and crisis, overcome obstacles to learning, make decisions, and more.
“Mercedes is a passionate advocate for her students, and her commitment to making a difference shines through in everything she does. She excels in her counseling work, particularly with students who face behavioral challenges or struggle to connect with adults, helping them build the tools and confidence to advocate for themselves both in and out of school.”
- Jenny Hoffman, Willams Middle School Principal
SUPERINTENDENT HONOREE
DR. ZIGGY ROBESON
Ripon Unified School District
The annual San Joaquin County Classified Employees, School Counselor, and Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration honors public education in the county by highlighting extraordinary individuals. Including leaders like Dr. Ziggy Robeson, who retired after 11 years as superintendent of Ripon Unified School District. She was recognized at the 2025 awards ceremony for her educational career, which touched on all levels of the educational system — from transitional kindergarten through the university level.
At Ripon Unified, Robeson was an innovator and leader. She led her district to be the first in the California to participate in a state-certified apprenticeship program for high school students. Her final year marked the opening of the new Career Technical Education Building at Ripon High School, which reflected her focus of investing in providing cutting-edge CTE programs to develop students into highly skilled employees able to pursue successful careers.
CHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE PAGE FOR FEATURE VIDEOS!
Couldn’t make it to the San Joaquin County Classified Employees, School Counselor, and Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration Dinner? Visit the San Joaquin County Office of Education YouTube page at youtube.com/@SJCOE to watch the honoree videos that were featured at the event.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Children learn and grow when they are outside.
Academically, students retain more of what they learn when they are outside, according to research. Being outside also improves social and emotional development. That is why the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) offers many opportunities for outdoor education experiences to learn science, art, and more. They are available throughout the school year, but the learning doesn’t stop during the summer break.
These experiences can be in the wide-open spaces at the SJCOE outdoor education centers at Durham Ferry and Sky Mountain – but they don’t have to be. They’re found in the treetops in school campuses, in rows of fruit trees on an urban farm, or in the waterways leading to city parks.
Color the Summer Art Camp
This summer, students across San Joaquin County discovered the power of creativity at the Color the Summer Art Camp, a twoweek program designed to spark curiosity and expression through the arts.
Split between two locations, the camp welcomed younger students to the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) main campus, while older students headed to the Sky Mountain Outdoor Education Center in Yuba Gap, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The unique setting of each camp encouraged students to immerse themselves in new experiences while exploring the many forms art can take. This year, the program expanded to embrace not only visual arts but also performing arts, giving students opportunities to discover new talents and interests. From crafting resin jewelry and practicing shading techniques to diving into theatre and improv workshops and creating music, campers were encouraged to express themselves in every medium imaginable.
For Erika Chapman, director of Student Engagement and the Arts, seeing the program grow has been especially meaningful. “This camp idea started in my garage for my kids’ friends,” Chapman said. “To see it evolve into what it is today, with the unwavering support from the SJCOE, has been incredible. I’m grateful that my team has been able to make this dream a reality so that many students across the county can have hands-on experiences with art.”
The Color the Summer Art Camp not only builds skills in art but also helps students gain confidence, collaborate, and carry their creativity far beyond the classroom.
Let’s Play Outside
While learning about seeds at the Let’s Play Outside! summer camp in an urban orchard in Stockton, students took every opportunity to snack on plums from the trees that surrounded them.
“The fresher the better,” said Zephyr, a student from Linden Unified School District who had never eaten a plum right off the tree before. They also bundled all sorts of seeds in “seed bursts,” then built paper “twirly birds” to mimic the “helicopter seeds” of other trees. “I want to come back to this camp next year.”
It was a week of firsts for many of the Linden Unified and Stockton Unified students at the camp in June. It was one of the several Let’s Play Outside! camps offered through SJCOE STEM Programs department.
This camp focused on giving outdoor activities to students who might not otherwise have access. It’s supported by the Youth Community Access Grant from the California Natural Resources Agency.
“It’s an opportunity to build life skills and become more connected with the environment and where they live,” said Katie Coelho, STEM program manager.
Over four days, students make art, hike, fish, and shoot bows and arrows at Durham Ferry Outdoor Education Center and float in kayaks at Lodi Lake. Wednesday’s plum orchard is part of the Edible Schoolyard in Stockton. Students rotated through stations throughout the day — making salsa, creating works of art, building “seed bursts” and playing lots of fun games.
At the end of the day, they left with a bag of fresh produce to take home with them.
A key piece of the grant-funded camps are the high school students and recent grads who guide the young students as they explore the outdoor world. The high schoolers prepare for multiple camps over several days of training from the STEM department team.
Let’s Play Outside! camps vary from week to week during the summer and are open to the public or through school summer programs. Variations of the camp include kayaking the Mokelumne River, archery lessons, and hiking or foraging at the Durham Ferry Outdoor Education Center.
Exploring the Campus Ecosystem
Underneath the shade of one of the trees growing on the campus of Aspire Port City Academy in Stockton, a group of fourth and fifth graders scanned the canopy of another line of trees with binoculars pressed to their faces.
They were looking for the source of the various bird songs floating over their playground.
“Right there,” said Mymy, a fourth grader, pointing to the top of a palm tree just over the campus wall. Later, she said the binoculars made it feel like she was right there, next to the bird. “It felt cool.”
She had heard birdsong on campus before, but she’s going to look up and try to find the singing bird from now on.
The binoculars were brought by a team from SJCOE STEM Programs. The department offers outdoor
education experiences at the Durham Ferry and Sky Mountain outdoor education centers, but it also offers the Biodiverse Schoolyards program to show students how to explore the ecosystem found on their school campuses — even in the middle of a city.
“You can find nature everywhere,” said Katie Coelho, program manager. “It’s important to look for nature everywhere to feel connected to where you live.” It also allows for a field-trip experience that doesn’t require transportation.
During the on-campus field trip at this Aspire charter school, the students played games while learning about the insects and birds outside their classrooms. “We are exploring birds and bugs and the interconnected relationship of those two organisms,” Coelho said.
It was the first day of summer programming at the Aspire charter school. “It gives students a chance to have more hands-on experiences during the summer,” said Petra Sanchez, school director of expanded learning. Outdoor education is part of the expanded learning program year-round, she said, including gardening. “It’s important to have those experiences, especially with this generation. I feel students are inside a lot,” she said.
During the Biodiverse Schoolyards field trip, the Port City Academy students played games and explored their campus, recording their observations and sketches in a nature journal they got to keep at the end of the day.
For more information about SJCOE STEM Programs and Outdoor Education, scan the QR code or go to www.sjcoe.org/services-and-support/stem-and-outdoor-education
Kicking off the new school year! The SJCOE Special Education team came together for a back-to-school kickoff celebrating the theme “Leadership is a team sport, and every teammate makes a difference.”
Human Resources on the road! The SJCOE HR team split into five groups and surprised HR departments in all 14 school districts with “welcome back” baskets, cookies, and helpful resources!
Serving the Community Together
Leaders across the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) visited the Amelia Ann Adams Whole Life Center in Stockton to take a tour and learn how we can work together to benefit those we serve.
At Amelia Ann Adams Whole Life Center, their mission is rooted in service, compassion, and healing. Guided by four foundational pillars — health, education, social justice, and faith and healing — the center addresses community needs holistically. Together, these pillars form an interconnected framework that supports meaningful change, helping families move beyond simply surviving to truly thriving.
To learn more about the Amelia Ann Adams Whole Life Center, visit www.aaawlc.org/
LET’S
SOCIAL GET
Here’s a snapshot of what you’ve been missing if you’re not following the SJCOE on social media!
We make a great team! Team spirit was in full swing during the first Spirit Day of the 2025-26 school year as staff wore apparel from their favorite sports teams on Friday, August 15.
Scan to follow the SJCOE on Facebook!
Scan to follow the SJCOE on Instagram!
There’s no place like Venture! Venture Academy Family of Schools staff kicked off the new school year with a Wizard of Oz themed day focused on reuniting, training, and gearing up for students to return.
Outdoor Education
FUNDRAISER
Looking for fundraising opportunities to help your students participate in Outdoor Education?
The San Joaquin County Office of Education Educational Foundation invites your school to participate in the Outdoor Education Fundraiser. Your school will receive 100% return for their efforts towards the trip to Outdoor Education (formerly known as Science Camp) or other outdoor education activities.
It is simple! Students sell tickets for $5 each for a chance to win one of three prizes: $3,500, $1,000, or $500. The three lucky tickets will be drawn in April, but your students are the real winners because your school will receive 100% of the ticket sales to help send kids to Outdoor Education. This fundraiser is open to all schools in San Joaquin County.
Sales will be ongoing through Friday, March 27, 2026. Make all checks payable to SJCOEEF. Winners will be announced at www.sjcoe.org on Friday, April 24, 2026. Winners will be subject to pay all applicable Federal and State gambling taxes prior to taking possession of prize. Must be 18 years or older to play. No refunds.
