The Ceres Unified School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees was recently honored by the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) as the “Region 7 School Board of the Year.” Criteria for the award requires that nominees demonstrate exemplary service, contribute to a positive culture, and promote the success of all students. The CUSD board consists of President Faye Lane, Clerk Jim Kinard, and trustees Mike Welsh, Betty Davis, Valli Wigt, Lourdes Perez and Teresa Guerrero.

In nominating the Board for this recognition, Supt. Scott Siegel highlighted trustees’ commitment to student safety and the well-being of the whole child, their role as advocates for public education, and commitment to prioritizing the interests of students in every action and decision.

“Each trustee views him- or herself as part of a cohesive governance team, effectively setting direction for the district and working to ensure that structure, accountability and leadership are in place,” said Siegel. “The trustees stand as staunch advocates for a free and appropriate education for all students … and have worked to establish a constructive presence within their community.”

Under the leadership of the current Board, the district rolled out its 1:World initiative which delivered Internet-enabled devices into the hands of every Ceres student, provided professional development to ensure teachers could effectively use technology to supplement instruction, and offered no- or low-cost Internet solutions so every student could access this resource.

The Board has also been a voice for the expansion of mental health services and interventions for student success. As a result of their leadership in this area, Ceres Unified was invited to present on its mental health program at the California School Boards Association’s 2017 Annual Education Conference.

The ACSA serves as an advocate for public school students and adult learners. Region 7 encompasses Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Tuolumne, Calaveras and Amador counties.