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Shasta County School Board Q&A Final Part 2: Cascade Union Elementary School District, Enterprise Elementary School District, Happy Valley Union School District and Junction School District

The present Cascade Union Elementary School District board of trustees.

Welcome to Part 2 of A News Café’s coverage of every open school board seat in Shasta County. In this article, we’ve made every effort to contact and question the candidates from Cascade Union Elementary School District, Enterprise Elementary School District, Happy Valley Union School District and Junction School District.

We asked them what’s wrong and right about their districts. We asked them about their opinions on the controversial Moms for Liberty organization, which seeks to out trans students against their will and ban books with any sexual content. We asked them whether they support diversity, equity and inclusion programs for staff and students and social emotion learning programs for students.

Not every candidate responded to ANC’s questionnaire. Some candidates submitted an official candidate statement to the Shasta County Elections office, some candidates didn’t. Nevertheless, with two exceptions, we were able to get at least some information on all of the candidates in Part 2.

Click here to read Part 1.

The districts are listed alphabetically, as are the candidates within their districts. We’ve provided a map of each district and links to each district. If you don’t know what district you’re in, this article should help you find out. So without further ado, let’s begin.

Cascade Union Elementary School District

No matter where you live in the Cascade Union Elementary School District, you’re on the right side of the tracks. According the district’s website, if you live on the east side of the railroad track that runs through Anderson, your elementary-aged child will attend Meadow Lane Elementary School. If you live on the west side of the railroad track, your elementary-aged child will attend Anderson Heights Elementary School. North State Aspire Academy is adjacent to the Anderson Heights Elementary School campus, and serves those students in grades TK-5 who are assigned to this school. No matter where you live, if your child is in grades 6-8, s/he will attend Anderson Middle School.

Red dotted line demarks Cascade Union Elementary School District.

According to the California Department of Education, CUESD’s four schools serve 1453 students. It’s one of Shasta County’s most diverse school districts, with a student body that’s 50 percent white, 31 percent Hispanic of Latino, 4 percent American Indian or Alaska Native, 4 percent Asian. Nearly 8 percent of the students are mixed race. The district strives to serve all students from across the community.

Two candidates are contesting for one open seat on the CUESD board of trustees.

Incumbent and CUESD board candidate Jason Foster.

Jason Foster

Incumbent Jason Foster is a CUESD parent who was appointed to the board of trustees in 2023. His term expires in December. Foster did not file a campaign statement and A News Café was unable to contact him.

CUESD board of trustees candidate Ty Burgess

Tye Burgess

CUESD board of trustees candidate Tye Burgess replied to A News Café’s questionnaire.

A News Cafe: Please tell voters a little bit about yourself.

Ty Burgess: I am currently in my 16th year in teaching having taught in Alaska, Hawaii and now California. I moved to Anderson with my kids and am proud to be a part of the Anderson Community. I had the opportunity to work as a teacher and administrator in the CUESD district for 7 years and made many wonderful connections to students and parents. I’m excited for the potential opportunity to once again find a way to provide positive growth and accountability to the community of Anderson.

ANC: What do you believe CUESD is doing right? You can name more than one thing.

TB: I believe CUESD is doing its best to put amazing quality teachers and staff to better support and guide the students of the Anderson Community.

ANC: Where could CUESD use improvement?

TB: CUESD leadership and current board members need to remember that teachers and support staff are the individuals in the trenches working hard for the students. These amazing teachers help guide and foster a love for education and deserve better support than what is currently being done in the district. We need to make sure we are retaining these quality teachers and appreciating them for their time and commitment to the Anderson Community.

ANC: Do you support “parental rights” groups such as Moms for Liberty, that call for the outing of transgender students against their will and banning books with any sexual content?

TB: I do not support “Moms of Liberty” or any organization that makes life harder for any student to be who they want to be in this world.

ANC: Do you support diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) for staff and students in the CUESD?

TB: I 100 percent support diversity, equity and inclusion in our community. I hope that ALL students will feel that CUESD offers a safe environment for them to grow and help discover their path through life.

ANC: Do you support social emotional learning (SEL) programs for students?

TB: SEL is another layer of growth for students as they face an ever changing world. SEL steps outside the foundational academic foundation and addresses the WHOLE student as they move forward.

ANC: What’s your strategy for balancing local control with state education mandates?

TB: Collaboration, transparency and accountability will be my focus to find a balance that benefits all students and staff. I want to hear from the teachers and community members and be a positive voice for them.

 

Enterprise Elementary School District, At Large Short Seat

Enterprise Elementary School District, At Large Short Seat

If you were looking for the beat heart of Redding’s future, a good place to start would be the Enterprise Elementary School District. It has no less than nine schools, including seven elementary schools: Alta Mesa Elementary, Boulder Creek Elementary School, Lassen View Elementary School, Mistletoe Elementary School, PACE Academy, Parsons Junior High School, Redding Collegiate Academy (K-12), Rother Elementary School, Shasta Meadows Elementary School.

Today, more than 3,700 students attend those nine schools.

Two candidates are running for one “at large short” position, which means it’s a 2-year post in one of EESD’s five districts.

Robin Littau is running for the Enterprise Elementary School District at large trustee seat.

Robin Littau

South Dakota native Robin Littau came to California via the U.S. Coast Guard and put down roots in Redding eight years ago. She responded to A News Café’s questionnaire.

ANC: Please tell voters a little bit about yourself.

Robin Littau: I was born and raised in South Dakota to a family of farmers and ranchers, so I’m a cowgirl at heart. I joined the United States Coast Guard when I was 18 years old. I was stationed in California on a Coast Guard Cutter and a Small Boat Search and Rescue Station, serving 4 years with an honorable discharge.

After that, I lived in Sacramento for 15 years, then moved to this beautiful City of Redding 8 years ago with my four children, to plant roots and make this our home. I started my first business as a sole proprietor and have successfully maintained it for 7 years.

I’m passionate to “be the change” increasing safety in my neighborhood by hosting community activities. I mentor struggling teens weekly, I help connect single mom’s to local resources, I am a writer in our local magazine Joyful Living.

I’ve recently been attending the Shasta County Search and Rescue Volunteer team meetings and I am passionate to teach basic self-defense skills to the most vulnerable. I’m living my best life every day, My favorite role on earth is being a mom and I strive for excellence in all I do.

ANC: What do you believe EESD is doing right? You can name more than one thing.

RL: My family of five has experienced the EESD for the past 8 years, Alta Mesa, Parson’s Junior High and Redding Collegiate Academy. As a parent I have greatly appreciated the engaged school staff and wonderful teachers who have surrounded my kids and I with prompt support throughout their educational experiences. The school staff clearly invests their hearts into helping each child succeed.

ANC: Where could EESD use improvement?

RL: I have been so grateful for our district’s engaged staff! Through observation and discussions with various kids, parents and teachers, I believe it would be helpful to increase communication between the parents, school staff, and school board, to improve the educational success of each child in our district through more individualized strategies, to continue increasing parental access to city resources, and to address student safety in regards to the drug crisis in our county. It would be an honor to join the EESD school board team and help contribute fresh ideas and solutions toward improving our district’s educational success for every student we are entrusted to care for.

ANC: Do you support “parental rights” groups such as Moms for Liberty, which call for the outing of transgender students against their will and banning books with any sexual content?

RL: To my understanding, the role of a school board member is to make beneficial decisions toward every student’s educational success, based on the perspective of the parents and the citizens who are funding their education. In that pursuit, I support all the constituents and do not support specific groups.

ANC: Do you support diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) for staff and students in the EESD?

RL: I support the academic success and opportunity for every student to flourish and am not beheld to any ideologies.

ANC: Do you support social emotional learning (SEL) programs for students?

RL: I support each student’s academic growth, success, and progress toward having the best educational opportunity our schools can provide.

ANC: What’s your strategy for balancing local control with state education mandates?

RL: I am eager to be proactively engaged as a local parent and citizen to improve our district schools for every family and hard-working teacher. I commit to diligently research and understand the laws, limitations, and procedures that are currently in place so I can make informed decisions between local control and state mandates that arise. I will do my best to support local control where it most benefits our citizens and families.

Enterprise Elementary School District incumbent and candidate Renee Menefee.

Renee Menefee

Renee Menefee is the executive director of Early Childhood Services for the Shasta County Office of Education. She’s also an appointed trustee for the Enterprise Elementary School District and a candidate for the at large short seat. Menefee did not file a candidate statement and A News Café was unable to contact her.

Dotted-red line demarks Happy Valley Union School District

 

Happy Valley Union School District

The Happy Valley Union School District is comprised of the Happy Valley Primary (TK-3) Happy Valley Elementary (TK-8) and Happy Valley Community Day School (K-8). According the California Department of Education, it serves 731 students who are approximate 50 percent white, 18 percent Hispanic or Latino, 7 percent American Indian or Alaska Native and 7 percent Asian.

Six candidates are running for two open seats on the HVUSD board of trustees.

Jennifer Bross

A News Café was unable to contact HVUSD board of trustees candidate and homemaker Jennifer Bross. Bross was the only candidate to submit an official statement to the elections office:

“My name is Jennifer (Jennie) Bross and I am running for a position on the Happy Valley Elementary School District Board of Trustees. I am a devoted mother to two children, both enrolled in the Happy Valley School District. I am a homemaker and run a small business on our family homestead.

“I am committed to seeing all children thrive in our small community. I am determined to make choices with the students’ success being a priority so that they may have the opportunity for a greater education in a student-driven district. I am dedicated to advocating for programs that foster student education and overall well-being.

“My campaign is rooted in my experience as a mother and community member, and I seek your support in this endeavor.”

HVUSD board of trustees candidate Jacque Brosseau.

Jacque Brosseau

A News Café was unable to contact HVUSD board of trustees candidate and ER nurse Jacque Brosseau. She made the following candidate statement on her Facebook page:

“I am an involved parent, nurse in the Emergency Room for our community and a proud wife to a Coast Guard Veteran. With our experiences raising kids all over the United States, I hope to bring a helpful hand to the local community we have grown to love. I am announcing my candidacy for the Happy Valley School Board. I hope for your supporting vote as I am excited to help create a positive educational experience for children, parents, teachers, and all staff, by enhancing the balance of hard work, dedication, and health physically and mentally for our children and community.”

HVUSD board of trustees candidate Erin Ciapponi.

Erin Ciapponi

A News Café was unable to contact Erin Ciapponi. She made the following campaign statement on her Facebook page:

“I am a devoted mother, active community volunteer and a Happy Valley Alumni. I am running for a board member seat for the Happy Valley Union School District. My goal is to ensure every child receives a high-quality education while working to support teachers, parents and staff alike. I hope you will support me in this endeavor with your vote!”

AUHSD board of trustee candidate Josh Hancock posted this on Facebook.

Josh Hancock

A News Café was unable to contact Josh Hancock. He didn’t file an official candidate statement but he did post the following conspiratorial campaign video on his Facebook page. The video is comprised of generic family and school footage with a narrator, presumably Hancock’s, ominously predicting retribution against administrators, teachers and staff should he be elected:

“As parents we trust our schools to be a safe place for everyone. But what happens when those who are supposed to uphold these standards start breaking them? In our district some school staff and administrators are disregarding district policies, creating their own rules and enforcing them on students and parents often with questionable legality these administers have openly expressed that they make the rules dismissing district policies as if they don’t matter. But they do matter. Especially when our children’s future is at stack. When legal information requests are made they are often ignored. Sometimes false and misleading documents are provided instead of the truth. This lack of transparency is unacceptable. And when law enforcement gets involved some staff have even lied about district policies to cover up their illegal activities. This isn’t just a breach of trust it’s a threat to our communities values. We can’t allow this to continue. Our schools must be a place where district policies are respected where transparency is respected and our children’s well-being is the priority. For a school board member who will hold administrators accountable and ensure our schools will be run with integrity vote Hancock for Happy Valley Union School Board.

“For too long our districts have been run by yes men, rubber stamping as they are told. This has lead to bad and often illegal policies, out of control staff, and a turn over rate among staff that is unrivaled.
We need a WATCH DOG.”

HVUSD board of trustees incumbent and candidate Billy Soksoda.

Billy Soksoda

Happy Valley Union School District incumbent and candidate Billy Soksoda responded to A News Café’s questionnaire.

ANC: Please tell voters a little bit about yourself.

Billy Soksoda: I have been in education for over fifteen years. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Masters of Science in Education specializing in mild to moderate disability, I feel that I bring extensive experience to the table. I am a father of three. My oldest just graduated from North Dakota State University, my bonus daughter is in the Air Force and my youngest goes to Happy Valley Elementary. As a father of three with children in different stages of education, I have a personal stake in understanding the needs and concerns of students and families.

ANC: What do you believe HVUSD is doing right? You can name more than one thing.

BS: HVUSD is doing a great job creating a safe learning environment for the students. HVUSD has created a supportive environment for students to achieve academically, athletically and now in the performing arts. I am excited for our new music program. HVUSD is striving to become leaders academically, collaboration with local high schools to ensure students are prepared for future challenges.

ANC: Where could HVUSD use improvement?

BS: HVUSD actively seeks feedback from parents, staff, and the community to continuously enhance their programs and practices.

ANC: Do you support “parental rights” groups such as Moms for Liberty, that call for the outing of transgender students against their will and banning books with any ****** content?

BS: We have to listen to parents’ concerns, we have to make sure that books are appropriate for our students and that the books will enrich our students academically and personally. While it’s important to consider parental concerns and ensure books are appropriate, any decisions should prioritize students’ safety and well-being without infringing on their rights or access to diverse perspectives.

ANC: Do you support diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) for staff and students in the HVUSD?

BS: I value diversity and am committed to ensuring all students and staff feel welcome and supported, recognizing the importance of a supportive environment for everyone’s well-being.

ANC: Do you support social emotional learning (SEL) programs for students?

BS: Supporting SEL programs is crucial as they contribute to students’ overall safety and ability to learn effectively by addressing both physical and emotional needs.

ANC: What’s your strategy for balancing local control with state education mandates?

BS: It’s important to align state mandates with the unique needs of the local community. This involves examining the goals of the mandates and finding solutions that best fit the community’s needs, through comprehensive evaluation and discussion.

HVUSD board of trustees candidate Bridget Soksoda.

Bridget Soksoda

Bridget Soksoda seeks to join her husband Billy on the HVUSD board of trustees should they both be elected. She coaches swimming, tennis and soccer. Soksoda posted a campaign statement on her Facebook page and responded to A News Café’s questionnaire. Here’s her campaign statement:

“Hello, my name is Bridget Soksoda, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Happy Valley Unified School District Board. My commitment to this role is driven by my passion for enhancing student support, empowering our teachers, and ensuring our community’s voices are heard.

“I am currently a teacher at West Valley High School. I have a son that is currently attending Happy Valley School and I attended Happy Valley School myself. As a parent, educator, and community member I feel that we can build a stronger, more responsive educational system for all.

“Thank you for your support, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve our community.”

Here are Soksoda’s responses to A News Café’s questionnaire.

ANC: Please tell voters a little bit about yourself.

Bridget Soksoda: I’m a proud mother of three who has lived and gone to the schools in this district. My experiences as a student here shaped who I am today, and now I’m dedicated to ensuring that my children—and all children—receive the best education possible. I’m actively involved in our schools and community, and I truly believe that together we can create a brighter future for our students.

ANC: What do you believe HVUSD is doing right?

BS: I believe HVUSD is doing a fantastic job of fostering a supportive community for both students and families. The emphasis on communication between parents and teachers, along with various programs that cater to different learning styles, really stands out. I also appreciate the focus on extracurricular activities that encourage creativity and teamwork.

ANC: Where could HVUSD use improvement?

BS: One area for improvement might be the accessibility of resources for students with special needs. I think increasing support services and training for staff can help ensure that every child receives the attention they need to thrive. Additionally, enhancing communication about curriculum changes could help parents feel more involved.

ANC: Do you support “parental rights” groups such as Moms for Liberty, that call for the outing of transgender students against their will and banning books with any ****** content?

BS: I believe in the importance of parental rights, but I also think it’s essential to protect the privacy and safety of all students. Open dialogues about these sensitive topics are crucial, and I think we need to find a balance that respects both parental involvement and the well-being of our kids.

ANC: Do you support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for staff and students in the HVUSD?

BS: Absolutely. DEI initiatives are vital in creating a welcoming environment for everyone. It’s important that all students see themselves represented and feel valued. Promoting understanding and respect among diverse backgrounds enriches our community.

ANC: Do you support social emotional learning (SEL) programs for students?

BS: Yes, I wholeheartedly support SEL programs. They play a crucial role in helping students navigate their emotions and build healthy relationships. These skills are essential for success in school and beyond, and I’ve seen firsthand how they benefit my children.

ANC: What’s your strategy for balancing local control with state education mandates?

BS: I believe in maintaining open lines of communication between local stakeholders and state officials. It’s important to advocate for our community’s needs while adhering to necessary regulations.

Junction School District

Situated on the south side of Palo Cedro, Junction School District consists of Junction Elementary and Junction Middle School. According to the California Department of Education it has 372 students.

Three candidates are running for two open positions on the Junction School District board of trustees.

Junction School District board of trustees incumbent and candidate Kristen Knott.

Kristen Knott

A News Café was unable to contact Kristen Knott, incumbent and candidate for the Junction School District board of trustees. She did not file an official candidate statement or reply to A News Café’s email questionnaire.

Sarah A. McCoy

A News Café was unable to contact Junction School District candidate Sarah A. McCoy, who describes herself as a substitute teacher and a parent. McCoy filed an official candidate statement, which reads:

“I want to start by saying ‘Thank You’ to the teachers, aides and parents who have encouraged me to run for the open Junction School Board position. Having your support has gotten me here today. For those of you who may not know me, I am a parent, active volunteer, on the School Site Council and a Substitute Teacher at Junction Elementary School.

“Since January, I have gotten many friends and family involved by attending the School Board meetings and reaching out to the Superintendent, Principal, and School Board Members to advocate for our teachers, aides, but most importantly our children. Our teachers and aides are the staff who support our children’s growth and development. They provide the academic, social, and emotional support our children need so it is important for them to know they also have the support of the parents.

“Please vote for me so I can help be the change that Junction Elementary School needs to be great again.”

Brooke Worden

A News Café was unable to contact Junction School District board candidate Brooke Worden. She filed an official statement which reads:

“As a dedicated homemaker and active community member in Palo Cedro, I will bring a hands-on, responsive approach to the school board, grounded in my many years of volunteer work and school involvement.

“I aim to promote policies that encourage innovation, fairness, and excellence in our schools.

“By working collaboratively with educators, parents, and stakeholders, I am committed to building a strong educational framework that prepares our students for future success.

“I received a bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness and a master’s degree in Agriculture with an emphasis in Irrigation from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. I currently serve on the Palo Cedro Youth Soccer Organization Board and enjoy doing it. Our school-aged child attends Junction and our other two children will follow suit. We enjoy living in Palo Cedro where my husband is in a leadership position in public service in the local area.

“I was raised in a family who held many elected local government positions. I know the work and dedication needed to be a successful Board Member and I want to put in that work. I want this and I am fired up and ready.

“I humbly ask for your support and vote.”

Junction School District voters also have Measure H on the ballot, a $6.1 million bond issue. The text reads:

“To improve Junction Elementary School and Junction Middle School; replace old temporary portables with permanent classrooms; upgrade inadequate electrical systems; modernize/renovate/upgrade outdated classrooms, restrooms and school facilities; and make health, safety and handicapped accessibility improvements; shall Junction Elementary School District’s measure to issue $6,100,000 of bonds at legal interest rates be adopted, generating on average $339,000 annually while bonds are outstanding at rates of approximately $23.30 per $100,000 assessed value, with citizens oversight, annual audits, and all money staying local?”

If passed the measure will add $83 to the property tax on a median-priced $360,000 home.

If you appreciate R.V. Scheide’s investigative journalism and in-depth election coverage, please consider a contribution to A News Cafe to help us continue our reporting on local issues. Thank you!

R.V. Scheide

R.V. Scheide is an award winning journalist who has worked in Northern California for more than 30 years. Beginning as an intern at the Tenderloin Times in San Francisco in the late 1980s, R.V. served as a writer and an editor at the Sacramento News & Review, the Reno News & Review and the North Bay Bohemian. R.V. has written for A News Cafe for 10 years. His most recent awards include best columnist and best feature writer in the California Newspaper Publishers Association Better Newspaper Contest. R.V. welcomes your comments and story tips. Contact him at RVScheide@anewscafe.com

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