Region News
April 29, 2024
R15: Olesniewicz receives Woman of Distinction honor
Assemblymember Chris Holden has recognized Julie Olesniewicz, Claremont Unified School District assistant superintendent of Educational Services and ACSA Board representative for Region 15, as a 2024 Woman of Distinction.
This honor, awarded as part of the 41st Assembly District’s Women’s History Month celebrations, highlights the remarkable achievements of women who have made significant contributions to their communities across California. Olesniewicz’s journey in education and leadership, from teaching to her current role in CUSD, and her active involvement in local and state educational boards, showcase her dedication to fostering excellence in education.
Olesniewicz is not just a leader in education; she is a pioneer for women’s leadership within the educational community. She founded the PAW – Powerful Awesome Women network, an initiative to mentor and support female administrators in the district. This program underscores her commitment to creating a collaborative and supportive environment for women in leadership roles.
The recognition of Olesniewicz is a testament to her impactful leadership, mentorship and community service. Her work extends beyond the confines of educational administration, touching the lives of many through her volunteering and leadership in various community organizations.
Claremont Unified School District is honored to have Olesniewicz as a leading figure who inspires change and promotes inclusivity and support for women in education. Her award is a well-deserved accolade that reflects her unwavering commitment to the community and the advancement of women in leadership positions.R2: Administrators of the Year celebrated for excellence
Region 2 held a sold-out celebration March 15 that recognized 31 outstanding administrators. These talented individuals have gone above and beyond in their roles and their dedication to education. ACSA is grateful for their hard work and commitment to excellence as they continue to serve students in Region 2.
The following Administrators of the Year were honored:
Adult Education: Randall Ittner, Placer Union HSD.
Business Services: Jenni Camera, Dry Creek Jt. Elementary SD.
Career Technical Education: Carol Keiser, Wheatland UHSD.
Central Office Administrator: Jay Trujillo, Marysville Jt. USD.
Classified Leader: Julianne Pereira, El Dorado UHSD.
Confidential Employee: Amanda Pfeil, Yuba City Unified.
Continuation/Alternative Education: Skott Hutton, Rocklin Unified.
Curriculum & Instruction: Celeste Boggs, Wheatland UHSD.
Elementary Co-Administrator: Stacey Clark, Dry Creek Jt. Elementary SD.
Elementary Principal: Karin Holmes, Lake Tahoe Unified.
Middle Grades Principal: Levi Cambridge, Rescue Union SD.
Personnel/Human Resources: Rob Hasty, Roseville Jt. Union HSD.
Secondary Co-Administrator: Justin Gatling, El Dorado UHSD.
Secondary Principal: Schandia Edwards, Wheatland UHSD.
Special Education Administrator: Sue Latham, Newcastle Union SD.
Student Services Administrator: Aleia Van Dyke, Wheatland UHSD.
Superintendent: Curtis Wilson, Mother Lode USD.
Superintendent/Principal: Keri Phillips, Gold Trail Union SD.
Technology Administrator: Rene Buenrostro, Rescue Union SD.
Retired Administrator: Louise Bennicoff Johnson.
In addition, the following special awards were given:
Outstanding Woman Leader of 2024: Mary Cox.
Sam LaCara Administrator of the Year: Nicole Newman.
The following Silver Star recipients were also honored:
Jennifer Horton, Western Placer USD — Career Technical Education.
Karen Goldberg, Lake Tahoe USD — Central Office Administrator.
Michelle Eklund, Placer COE — Classified Leader.
Trent Wilson, Placer Union HSD — Curriculum & Instruction Administrator.
Tracy Pomeroy, Marysville Jt. USD — Elementary Principal.
Gabe Simon, Marysville Jt. USD — Personnel/Human Resources.
Michael Pappas, Rocklin High School — Secondary Co-Administrator.
Bill MacDonald, Rocklin USD — Student Services Administrator.
Kerry Callahan, Western Placer USD — Superintendent.
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