RIDER ALERT:
Tri Delta Transit will be running weekend/holiday service on Monday, February 19th, in observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday. Tri MyRide and paratransit services will be limited. Administrative offices will be closed. Have a safe holiday weekend.
For more information visit Tri Delta Transit.
7 members appointed, sworn in Tuesday night, presented during Wednesday ceremony; does not replace Police Crime Prevention Commission
“We’re creating an advisory, oversight board.” – Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe
“They did not need to form a new commission.” – former Police Crime Prevention Commission Chair Sandra White
Commissioners ran have criminal records
Former councilman says some commissioners biased toward police, shouldn’t be appointed
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, the Antioch City Council on 3-0 votes appointed seven members to the new Police Oversight Commission. Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson and District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica were absent. Because Antioch is a general-law city, the commission has limited authority and will only serve in an advisory role to the council. Each of the four councilmembers selected one commissioner from their respective districts. The other three were appointed by Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe, including one representing the faith community. One of the new commissioners, Harry Thurston had previously served as a member of the Police Crime Prevention Commission. (See 1:18:00 mark of meeting video)
Background
The mayor held a ceremonial oath of office re-enactment event the next morning which was attended by all seven commissioners and District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker. In his announcement about the event, Hernandez-Thorpe shared in February 2021, he announced several police reform measures, including establishing the commission and claims it was “once an opposed concept, now a reality to assist in building trust between community and police department.” In his post about the event on his official Facebook page, he offered a “a special THANK YOU to all his colleagues on the Antioch City Council for actively participating in the selection process that included community members and the East County Branch of the NAACP.”
According to the City staff report for the May 10, 2022, council meeting, “City staff researched (1) police oversight commissions and boards in general law and charter cities; (2) the differences between police oversight commissions in general law cities and charter cities; and (3) solutions that can be achieved under each type of government within state and local laws and policies.
City staff…prepared an ordinance forming the Antioch Police Oversight Commission with the aim of strengthening trust, transparency, accountability, and police-community relations in the City of Antioch by ensuring that the Antioch Police Department’s policies, practices, and customs meet or exceed national standards of constitutional policing.”
The new commission was approved on a 3-1 vote with Barbanica opposing formation of the commission, saying he believed they should give Interim Police Chief Ford more time in his position and get input from him prior to the formation of this Commission. Ogorchock was absent for that meeting. (See 1:19:16 mark of the meeting video)
Commissioners Must Be Antioch Residents, Can Have Criminal Records
As previously reported, the adopted resolution also included details on membership of the commission:
(A) The Police Commission shall consist of seven (7) voting members appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council.
(B) All voting members of the Police Commission shall be residents of the City of Antioch.
(C) The Mayor and the City Council shall strive to appoint and confirm at least:
(a) one (1) representative from each of the four (4) councilmember voting districts of the City;
(b) one (1) representative of the Antioch faith-based community;
(c) one (1) representative of the Antioch business community; and
(d) one (1) employee or student of the Antioch Unified School District.
(D) No one shall be excluded from the Police Commission because he or she has a criminal record.
(E) The following shall not be eligible to serve as a Police Commissioner:
(a) current sworn police officer or his/her spouse;
(b) current City employee or his/her spouse;
(c) former Police Department sworn employee or his/her spouse; or
(d) current or former employee, official, or representative of an employee association representing sworn police officers or his/her spouse.
(F) Commissioners shall not be issued and shall not display, wear, or carry badges that so resemble a peace officer’s badge that an ordinary reasonable person would believe that Commissioners have the authority of a peace officer.
On May 24, 2022, the Antioch City Council, under Consent Calendar Item F., voted 3-1 to create the Police Commission, with District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock opposing without explaining her vote and Barbanica absent.
Ogorchock Explains Votes for Appointments
Asked why she voted for the appointments when she opposed the formation of the commission, Ogorchock said, “Because it was going to happen no matter what. The division has to stop some place. So, I wanted to ensure my district was well represented by an individual with an appropriate background and Mahogany Spears fills that. She was very qualified.”
“Claryssa Wilson and Deer Valley High Senior Class President Corey Hawkins helped me choose Mahogany,” The District 3 councilwoman continued. “We interviewed three candidates. Mahogany is overqualified for this.”
Had Ogorchock voted against the appointments, the agenda item and appointees would have had to return at a future council meeting when Wilson, who supported the commission’s formation was in attendance.
Purpose of Commission
According to the City staff report for the item on Tuesday’s council meeting agenda, the purpose of the Police Oversight Commission is as follows:
Public Speaker Says Some Commissioners Biased Against Police
During public comments on the appointment votes, former Antioch Councilman Ralph Hernandez, who is also a former Pittsburg Police Officer, said the commissioners, “could muddle the waters and cause problems for the community. Some of those you have proposed to appoint, have come up here many council times and criticized the police. They wanted them fired. They wanted them defunded. They already have a predisposition against the police. That is not what you want any commission to be. They have to be honest and open-minded not attack the police just because.” (See 1:26:00 mark of council meeting video)
Hernandez then spoke specifically against the appointment of Devin Williams. Ogorchock responded to those comments saying, “I just want to say one thing to all the individuals being appointed, tonight. I do not believe that you’re coming into this with a predisposed notion of making certain changes without hearing all the facts before you, each time it comes to you. I think you will have an open mind. You will listen to the public and you will do the public’s work, just as this council does. So, I hope and pray, and I believe in my heart that’s how this commission is going to act.”
She then moved approval of Williams’ appointment.
Limited Authority in General Law City
Unlike charter cities such as San Francisco, which has a Police Commission that oversees the San Francisco Police Department and the Department of Police Accountability, and “sets policy…conducts disciplinary hearings on charges of police misconduct…imposes discipline as needed and hears officer appeals from discipline imposed by the Chief of Police,” Antioch is a General Law city. Thus, the new commission has limited oversight power of the police department and does not have the authority to conduct matters such as the SF Police Commission can.
During the May 10, 2022, meeting in explaining the new commission’s role, Hernandez-Thorpe spoke of the police commissions in San Francisco as well as in Oakland, for which City Attorney Thomas L. Smith served as chair, “that actually have power. The Oakland oversight board had the power to fire the chief of police. And so that’s not what we’re creating, here today. We’re creating an advisory, oversight board.”
According to the meeting Minutes for the agenda item (#6), “any recommendations or policies would have to be codified by the City Council.”
Former Commission Chair Says New Commission Unnecessary
Asked if the Police Crime Prevention Commission could have handled the responsibilities of the new commission, former Chair Sandra White said, “Yes. If the mayor and the city council would have wanted. But they would have had to vote on that. They did not need to form a new commission. Our goal was to bring forth Neighborhood Watch meetings. But it was independent of whatever the police department was doing.”
UPDATE: Hernandez-Thorpe later shared, “The police oversight commission was not created to replace crime prevention commission. Crime prevention still exists and is under review in terms of purpose and scope of work.”
However, the commission has not held a meeting since Sept. 2021. A note on the Boards and Commissions page of the City’s website beneath the Police Crime Prevention Commission reads, “On April 11th, 2023, the Antioch City Council created an Ad Hoc Committee to define the purpose and structure of the PCPC. Please check back at a future date for more details.“
“It still exists,” the mayor reiterated. “We had a meeting about it a few months ago specifically working on its purpose. I put a pause on appointing new commissioners until the work group came back to council with their recommendations.”
Seven Appointees & Backgrounds
According to the City staff report: Because this is the initial appointment of commissioners, all seven members are vacant. The City Council shall strive to appoint the members as follows: One member representative from each of the four councilmember districts; one member representative of the Antioch faith-based community; one member representative of the Antioch business community; and one member representative that is an employee or student of the Antioch Unified School District.
Two commissioners will have one-year terms; two commissioners will have two-years terms; and three commissioners will have three-year terms.
Hernandez-Thorpe nominated, and the council approved the appointment of the following Antioch citizens to the Police Commission: (click on names for backgrounds)
One-year terms, expiring November 2024 – Alicia Dianne Lacey-Oha (Hernandez-Thorpe) and Devin Williams (Hernandez-Thorpe);
Two-year terms, expiring November 2025 – Porshe Taylor (faith-based community, chosen by Hernandez-Thorpe) and Leslie May (Torres-Walker); and for
Three-year terms, expiring November 2026 – Mahogany Spears (Ogorchock), Treva Hadden (Barbanica) and Harry Thurston (Wilson).
Neighborhood Watch Not Part of New Commission’s Responsibilities
White was also asked if Thurston, as the only former member of the previous commission, ever suggested taking on any of the responsibilities of the new commission she said, “No. He always said, ‘police business is completely separate than the commission business’.”
When reached for comment Thurston was asked the same question. He said, “when I was there, that commission was solely based off of Neighborhood Watch. It was outside of that commission to talk about oversight. Our role was to work with the public on crime prevention. It was not there to monitor the police. The chief was very strict about.”
“That role is a very valid one that works directly with the public to help prevent crime from happening to them,” Thurston added.
Asked if the new commission will continue to work with Neighborhood Watch he said, “We’ll be involved with that to some extent, to collect citizen opinion, so we can include that in our oversight responsibility. But I don’t think we will be involved in the Neighborhood Watch program. We might be going to the August Night Outs.”
“So, we will interact with the community. We’ll probably hold town hall meetings,” Thurston continued. “We want people to attend meetings so the public will have a say in the policing of their city. We want to make sure we have citizen input for everything we do.”
Asked who will be the liaison for the police department, Thurston said, “The police chief will be involved with the commission. He will be a key partner with us. He will be interacting with the commission as far as I anticipate.”
Powers & Duties of Commission
The new commissioner then shared from the ordinance adopted by the city council forming the commission, in Section 4-3.110 Powers and Duties, subsection “(E) Require the Chief of Police to submit an annual report to the Police Commission regarding such matters as the Police Commission shall require” and from subsection “(F) Report at least once a year to the Mayor, the City Council, and to the public to the extent permissible by law, the information contained in the Chief’s report in addition to such other matters as are relevant to the functions and duties of the Police Commission.”
Thurston also shared under Section 4-3.110 Public Reports, subsection “(B) The Police Commission shall provide annual public reports to City Council, City Manager, and City Attorney on the Police Department’s progress on Police Commission recommendations and other updates relevant to the mission of the Police Commission.”
Organizing Meeting in March
Asked when the first commission meeting will be held, where and how often Thurston said, “The only word I have is we’re going to get together in March. We will have to identify a chair and vice chair, and the administrative details.”
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, the Antioch City Council approved the redevelopment of the PG&E Service Center on Hillcrest Avenue on a 3-0 vote with Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson and District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica absent. The project includes a new operations building, fleet maintenance, logistics shops and warehouse, warehouses, material storage and support structures. (See Agenda Item 3)
Located on 36.39 acres of the existing 56.15-acre parcel at 2111 Hillcrest Avenue just north of the Sunset Drive and Slatten Ranch Road intersection, as well as the Union Pacific Railroad railroad right-of-way and the Antioch BART station.
The proposed project involves the replacement and demolition of four existing buildings within the existing PG&E Service Center (Fleet Maintenance, Logistics Warehouse, Logistics Shops, and Operations buildings). Additionally, the proposed project would include the construction of new non-occupied support structures, a below grade parking area, circulation improvements, expansion of paved surfaces, and expansion of lighting infrastructure.
During the Planning Commission meeting on Jan. 17, 2024, Brett Badelle, Local Government Affairs Representative for PG&E stated the Antioch service center would improve service to customers, add beautification and have a positive impact on the economy. He also explained that the project would improve safety, reliability, resiliency and sustainability. On a 4-0 vote with two members absent and one vacancy, the commissioners recommended the council approve the project.
Official Ballots have been mailed for upcoming Presidential Primary Election
By Dawn Kruger, Civic Outreach/Engagement Specialist, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder-Elections Department
Ballots for the March 5th Presidential Primary Election have been mailed to Contra Costa voters. If you do not receive your ballot by February 20th, call 925-335-7800.
Here’s what you need to know about voting in the upcoming election:
To ensure you receive a ballot in the mail, confirm that you are registered to vote and that your address is correct at MyVotingInformation. After February 20th, registration must be in person at one of the County’s early voting sites, the Elections Division in Martinez, or at a polling place on Election Day.
No stamp is required to return your ballot! Great news! Your return envelope is postage paid. Just put your completed ballot in the envelope, seal it, sign it, and mail it to us. Voted ballots returned by mail must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received within seven (7) days after the election to be considered timely.
You can drop your ballot at one of the County’s 40 Official Drop Boxes. Official drop boxes are ready to receive ballots. Dropping your ballot at an official drop box is just like dropping it at the Elections Office and saves taxpayer dollars by reducing the cost of return postage. Voters can find the most up to date list of convenient drop-box locations here. Ballots must be dropped off no later than 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.
Be sure your vote is included in the Election Night results– Vote early and mail or drop off your ballot so the Elections Office receives it before Election Day.
Five regional early voting sites will be open across the County on Friday, Saturday, and Monday leading up to Election Day. On Election Day, 147 polling locations will be open. Every voter will be assigned a polling place which will be listed on the back of their Voter Information Guide. For those who wish to vote in person, you can minimize the time spent waiting by reviewing your ballot options ahead of time and arriving ready to vote.
“Registered Voters in Contra Costa County should all have their Vote By Mail Ballots by now.” said Registrar of Voters, Kristin B. Connelly. “Our Election team is ready to receive and process ballots and there are many different ways to cast your ballot early.”
You can track your ballot! Ballot tracking is a Secretary of State service that will send you notices about your ballot, including when it’s mailed, received, and counted. Know where your ballot is every step of the way! Sign up at https://WheresMyBallot.sos.ca.gov.
More information and locations of each voting option can be found on the Contra Costa Elections website or call 925-335-7800.
The Antioch Department will be out Monday, February 19, 2024, from 6PM to 12AM looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence (DUI).
“Impaired driving is preventable,” said Sergeant Rob Green. “It’s a choice. If you’ve been drinking or taken drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you places.”
The Antioch Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Two laterals, two recent academy grads; brings force to 85 sworn officers
By Allen D. Payton
The Antioch Police Department increased by four sworn officers during an oath of office ceremony in the Police Facility’s Community Room on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. Acting Chief Joe Vigil administered the oath to Officers Shirley Lara, Marcos Molina, Travis Donaldson and Justin Talavera,
As previously reported, Donaldson and Talavera recently graduated from the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Regional Training Center. Lara said she is a lateral hire from BART and Molina said he transferred from the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department.
Vigil offered the following remarks about each of the four officers:
Shirley Lara- Lateral Police Officer
Shirley was born and raised in Richmond, CA and graduated from Leadership Public High school in 2010. Years later, she graduated from the Contra Costa County Police Academy in 2021 and moved to Antioch in 2014 and is currently still living here with her two children. On her down time, she loves to garden, exercise, and explore different restaurants around the Bay Area.
Fun fact: Shirley used to be in a Regional Mexican band.
Marcos Molina- Lateral Police Officer
Marcos was born and raised in Redwood City, CA. He enlisted in the Army in 2011 and spent 6 years as a combat engineer. He graduated from College of San Mateo with a degree in Administration of Justice. He then began his career in CDCR assigned to San Quentin State Prison. He then worked at the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and was assigned to the custody and courts division.
Fun fact: Marcos likes to spend time with his kids.
Travis Donaldson- Police Officer Trainee
Travis currently lives in Vacaville. He’s been married for 10 years but has been with his wife for 22 years. He has a 19-year-old son and a 9-year-old boxer. During his free time, he enjoys volunteering at the Performing Arts Theatre in Fairfield. Before joining Law Enforcement, he spent the last 23 years as a co- owner of a successful flooring business with his brother. Travis feels extremely honored and grateful for the opportunity to become part of APD!
Fun fact: Travis was delivered by his father at a home in Pleasant Hill.
Justin Talavera- Police Officer Trainee
Justin was born in Bronx, NY. He was raised in Antioch and attended Deer Valley High school where he played baseball. After graduating from Deer Valley, he attended San Francisco State where he received a bachelor’s in criminal justice. Prior to becoming a trainee, he worked as a barista and a server. During his free time, he enjoys working out, cooking, playing golf and trying new restaurants around the Bay Area. Justin feels blessed to work in the city he calls home for the past 20 years.
Fun fact: Justin knows a thing or two about cooking, bring him some fresh ingredients and he can cook up something tasty!
Mayor Congratulates New Officers
A Feb. 15, 2024, post on the mayor’s official Facebook page reads, “On Tuesday, Mayor Hernandez-Thorpe was proud to welcome newly appointed Antioch Police Officers Lara, Molina, Talavera, and Donaldson.
They will spend the next few months in field training under the direct supervision of a field training office (FTO). Three of them either grew up and/or live in Antioch. Two are fluent in Spanish, which is critical given Antioch’s large Spanish speaking population. Another is fluent in Tagalog (Filipino). Antioch’s AAPI community continues to grow currently at 15%. The growth is being led by Filipino Americans.
Since the passing of the mayor’s hiring incentive program, Antioch has hired 16 new officers. In addition, there are four police candidates heading to the Academy and will join the Antioch Police Department in May.
Antioch looks forward to continuing to build a police department that’s a reflection of the communities the police department serves. Congratulations to the City’s newest police officers.”
The addition of the four officers brings the total sworn on the force to 85 of 115 budgeted.
Cutline: New Antioch Police Officers Justin Talavera, Marcos Molina, Shirley Lara and Travis Donaldson were sworn in on Tues., Feb. 13, 2024. Photo by Allen D. Payton
Wilson in AD15, Elward in SD3 and Kalb in SD7
By Chris Thomas, Climate Action California
Climate Action California – the only statewide group basing endorsements for the March primary solely on a candidate’s positions on climate – has announced its endorsements. With more than 7,500 supporters around the state, Climate Action California is endorsing a total of 15 candidates for the California State Assembly, and 13 for the State Senate. Climate Action California’s rigorously vetted endorsements assure voters that these candidates are climate champions committed to continuing and expanding California’s clean energy policies and global climate leadership as we work to address the climate crisis.
Monica Wilson for Assembly District 15
In 2012, Monica Wilson was the first African American woman elected to the Antioch City Council, and she is currently serving her fourth term. As a councilwoman, she successfully enacted an ordinance banning oil and gas drilling within Antioch’s city limits. She and the council also voted to end a lease for a natural gas line that runs through Antioch.
Her priorities are:
Monica was born in Washington, D.C., where her parents marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. She grew up in San Rafael, where she was one of the few African American children at her school. For the past two decades, she has served the people of Contra Costa County as a community organizer, nonprofit manager, and leader in the fight for safe neighborhoods and healthy families.
Climate Action California believes that Monica has demonstrated her support for working people and a commitment to playing a role in the fight against climate change.
The climate can’t wait! California must elect climate champions.
Despite Democratic supermajorities in both the assembly and senate, the California legislature has struggled to pass many important climate bills. In 2023 alone, important climate bills addressing pension fund divestment from fossil fuels (SB 252) and bidirectional charging for electric vehicles (SB 233) failed to move out of the legislature. The climate cannot wait while the legislature holds tightly to the status quo. California needs more climate champions in the Assembly and the Senate to take on the climate crisis with the urgency that it deserves.
Assembly District 15 includes all of Antioch and other portions of Contra Costa County. Read more about Wilson on the CAC website.
Jackie Elward for State Senate District 3
Climate Action California believes Jackie Elward can be counted on to fight the fossil fuel industry in Sacramento—and reach a 100% renewable future as soon as possible. Elward supports California’s 2045 net zero goals and encourages their acceleration, prohibiting natural gas in new building construction, incentives to remove gas infrastructure during retrofits, and ensuring people in impacted sectors have every opportunity for gainful employment in a similar field for a just transition. She also sees protection from climate impacts such as wildfire, extreme heat, drought, and increased flooding in the district as one of her top priorities.
Elward has served the North Bay community as an educator and labor organizer as well as Rohnert Park City Council member (since 2020) and Mayor. She is also a board member for Sonoma Clean Power (Sonoma County’s ground-breaking Community Choice Aggregator for clean energy), the Sonoma County Transportation Authority and the Regional Climate Protection Authority (alternate), Sonoma County Continuum of Care (provider of homeless services), and North Bay Jobs with Justice.
A first-generation immigrant from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Elward has first-hand experience of the disease and devastation wrought by bad environmental policies.
All of Climate Action California’s endorsees – including Jackie Elward – have declared addressing climate change to be among their highest priorities and are committed to bringing about key legislation our state needs in the crucial years ahead.
Senate District 3 includes portions of far Eastern Contra Costa County. Read more about Elward on the CAC website.
Dan Kalb for State Senate District 7
Dan Kalb has spent his entire career as an advocate on climate, environment, and social justice issues and as a public servant, leading efforts to protect our environment and combat climate change. He is now running for an open seat in the state Senate, as Senator Nancy Skinner terms out after 12 years in Sacramento. Skinner, a climate warrior since long before joining the legislature, leaves a legacy of far-sighted climate policies passed into law. California needs an equally committed climate champion in that seat, and Climate Action California is confident that Dan Kalb is the right person for the job.
Kalb has served on the Oakland City Council since 2013, where he’s led the council on climate and environmental issues. His accomplishments include:
Before joining the Oakland City Council, Kalb worked as the California Policy Director for the Union of Concerned Scientists for nine years, leading their efforts to pass early climate legislation in Sacramento. Based on Kalb’s long track record leading decarbonization efforts at the local and state level, Climate Action California is confident Kalb will be one of our strongest voices taking on climate change in the California State Senate.
Janet Cox, Climate Action California CEO, who lives in Dan’s district and has known him for many years, says, “Dan is exactly the kind of committed, focused climate leader we need in Sacramento. I know we’ll be able to count on Dan to take on the tough issues and work with colleagues to pass essential climate measures.” She adds, “Now it’s up to us to get to work to make sure Dan and his fellow endorsees win in March and November. This is how we can keep California moving at the speed and scale necessary to reduce our emissions and bring on the low-carbon economy we need.”
Senate District 7 includes portions of Western Contra Costa County. Read more about Kalb on CAC website.
Climate Action California (formerly the 350 Silicon Valley legislation/policy team) is a statewide, volunteer-led, 501(c)(4) social welfare organization (EIN 88-4217994). Our members understand the importance of California and our legislative initiatives to the rest of the nation – and the world. Visit our website for the full list. For further information, contact the Climate Action California Elections team at elections@climateactionca.org.
Of Bidwell Continuation High School; Runner-Up is Samantha Marquardt of Marsh Elementary
By Stephanie Anello, Superintendent, Antioch Unified School District
Many wonderful teachers were nominated this year for the 2024 Antioch Unified School District Teacher of the Year. The nominations were impressive and selecting the winners was incredibly difficult. Many thanks to the teachers and administrators who took time out of their busy schedules to recognize our amazing candidates!
The 2024 AUSD Teacher of the Year is Nicole Vicknair! Nicole is a teacher at Bidwell Continuation High School. Her unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching and exceptional qualities make her a truly deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition. Nicole’s teaching style is marked by creativity that has transformed the learning environment in remarkable ways. Her innovative methods not only captivate students but also inspire active engagement in the learning process. By integrating various instructional techniques and multimedia resources, Nicole has successfully created a dynamic and stimulating classroom atmosphere, fostering intellectual curiosity among her students.
Nicole’s commitment to standards-based teaching is evident in the rigor she brings to her lessons. Going above and beyond to align her curriculum with educational standards, she ensures her students receive a well-rounded and comprehensive education, reflected in consistently high achievement levels. Nicole’s passion for teaching is reflected in her engagement with students. She connects with each student on a personal level, understanding their needs and tailoring her approach accordingly. This personal touch enhances the learning experience and builds trust and respect between Nicole and her students.
Beyond her impact on students, Nicole is highly regarded by colleagues at both the school and district level. Her collaborative spirit, willingness to share resources and ideas, leadership, and positive influence on school and district culture make her an invaluable member of AUSD’s teaching community. In summary, Nicole Vicknair embodies the qualities of an outstanding Teacher of the Year. Her creativity, excellent classroom management, standards-based teaching, rigor, and dedication to her craft set her apart as a beacon of inspiration for both students and fellow educators.
Runner-Up: Marsh Elementary Teacher Samantha Marquardt
The runner-up is Samantha Marquardt! Samantha holds the position of a K-2 Special Day Class teacher at Marsh Elementary School. Loved and admired by students, parents, and colleagues alike, Samantha’s influence extends far beyond the classroom walls. As a vital member of Marsh’s Leadership Team and a two-term member in Marsh’s School Site Council, Samantha has spearheaded a transformative culture shift on campus.
Her commitment to fostering meaningful relationships, coupled with a data-driven approach, underscores her dedication to ensuring Marsh delivers a myriad of supports to its students. Amidst Special Education staffing challenges, Samantha goes above and beyond, investing countless hours in meticulously planning and conducting Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings. Her leadership extends to facilitating professional development sessions centered on compliance, equity, IEP protocols, and data analysis.
Moreover, Samantha is the go-to authority on matters concerning students with disabilities, offering invaluable insights into effective classroom strategies, policies, and accommodations. Her expertise extends to supporting students with 504 plans and liaising with the CARE team. Samantha’s unwavering advocacy and tireless efforts have deepened the staff’s understanding of student needs, paving the way for enhanced academic success.
Beyond her instructional duties, Samantha serves as a beacon of inspiration for fellow educators grappling with classroom dynamics. Her exceptional skills in fostering positive relationships, managing behaviors, and meticulously tracking student progress have earned her admiration from peers. Samantha’s classroom stands as a model of inclusive learning, where every student thrives under her guidance. Her exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication epitomize the spirit of excellence within Marsh Elementary School and across the District.
Please join me in congratulating these exemplary educators!! They will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to their students and school communities at the May 8th Board Meeting and Nicole Vicknair is moving forward representing AUSD in the Contra Costa County Office of Education Teacher of the Year program.
Tri Delta Transit issues Rider Alert for Presidents’ Day, Feb. 19
Friday, February 16th, 2024Antioch inaugurates first Police Oversight Commission, will serve in advisory role only
Friday, February 16th, 2024Antioch Council approves redevelopment of PG&E Service Center
Friday, February 16th, 2024Antioch Police swear in four new officers including Deer Valley High grad
Thursday, February 15th, 2024Climate Action California endorses in Contra Costa Assembly, State Senate races
Thursday, February 15th, 2024
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