Meet Debbie

I am dedicated to our schools and committed to amplifying the voices of all students and families. My experience and community engagement demonstrate my capability to serve effectively.

With twelve years as a trustee, including ten years with a local elementary district, and as a parent of graduates from the West Sonoma County Union High School District, I understand our schools' needs deeply. My training with the California School Boards Association and the Sonoma County Office of Education has equipped me with expertise in school budgeting, education codes, goal setting, mandates, and the Brown Act open meeting laws.

During my tenure on the West Sonoma County Union High School District board, I have advocated for transparency and represented all stakeholders. My focus remains on fiscal responsibility, transparency, and meaningful engagement with students, families, and the community.

My dedication extends beyond governance; I have supported students and teachers through volunteer work and as a classroom and special education instructional assistant. My nine years on the Sebastopol Union School District board, including terms as board President, taught me invaluable lessons in district governance and collaboration.

Before becoming a parent, I worked in the tourism and hospitality industry, connecting travel and meeting planners with destination resources. Currently, I work as a Field Representative for 5th District Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, supporting constituents and facilitating community engagement activities, including a Youth Voice initiative.

I have also been involved in community initiatives, such as co-founding The ShareExchange and the Made Local Marketplace in Santa Rosa. I am a 2012 Fellow of the Leadership Institute for Ecology and the Economy* and co-founded the Sebastopol Area Time Bank, a mutual aid support network.

A Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator, I have raised two boys in Sebastopol. I am passionate about improving school climate and equity, enhancing student and stakeholder engagement, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. I seek to guide discussions around these issues to ensure that we are able to continue providing high-quality education for all West County high school students.

Endorsements

In our communities, neighbors' opinions are highly valued and foster genuine conversations. Personal endorsements offer nuanced insights that organizations often cannot. By prioritizing individual endorsements, I aim to keep my campaign grounded and responsive to the needs and concerns of the people I serve. As such, I have chosen not to seek organizational endorsements.

*now called the Leadership Institute for Just and Resilient Communities

Click here to read about my priorities, qualifications & strategies