Region 7 is proud to announce the winners of its Administrator of the Year awards, whose outstanding leadership and dedication to education have made a significant impact in the community. This year’s honorees include school administrators, school board trustees, and a community partner, all of whom have demonstrated unwavering commitment to enhancing the educational experience for students and supporting the growth of their schools. The following winners were recognized for their achievements on May 1 at Region 7’s Annual Spring Conference in South Lake Tahoe.

Superintendent: Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, Stockton USD. Secondary Principal: Karen Sells, Sonora Union High SD. Middle Grades Principal: Kristi Cody, Stanislaus Union SD. Elementary Principal: Kristin Lilly-Porter, Ceres USD. Central Office Administrator: Michael Rich, Modesto City Schools. Secondary Co-Administrator: Wendi Cook, Turlock USD. Middle Grades Co-Administrator: Lucia Hernandez, Ceres USD. Elementary Co-Administrator: Marielena Zuniga, Modesto City Schools. Classified Leader: Angelica Cazares, Ceres USD. Confidential Employee: Randon Jones, Ceres USD. Personnel/Human Resources: Aggie Christensen, San Joaquin COE. Adult Education: Carly Sexton, San Joaquin COE. Career Technical Education Administrator: Rachelle Barkus, Modesto City Schools. Special Education Administrator: Angela Durossette, Ceres USD. Superintendent/Principal: Carmel Portillo, Belleview School District. Business Services Administrator: Dr. Kristi Britton, Ceres USD. Student Services Administrator: Kristina Smith, Calaveras COE. Curriculum & Instruction: Heidi Nunes, Modesto City Schools. Continuation/Educational Options Administrator: Doug Silva, San Joaquin COE. Professor of Education: Lisa Reece, San Joaquin COE. Technology Administrator: Mark Fabela, Sylvan Union SD. Valuing Diversity: John Acha, Turlock USD. Partners In Educational Excellence: Tuolumne JPA.

The following Region 7 Special Awards were also presented.

Bob Price Distinguished Service Award: Dr. Sheri Coburn, retired administrator – San Joaquin COE. Bill Ullom Award: Deborah Rowe, assistant superintendent, Human Resources, Sylvan Union SD. Board of Trustees: Empire Union School Board, Loretta Stein, Board President; Carole Dovichi, Board Clerk; Doug Bentley, Trustee; Bob McDonough, Trustee; Gina Smith, Trustee.