The Ukiah community is continuously changing and growing, but at its core, it is family-oriented. I have had the great honor of growing up in Ukiah and going through our school system. The relationships that I made during that time are still strong today.

When I went to college to become a teacher, I intended to return to Ukiah to be able to take an active part in shaping the lives of children and foster a sense of belonging to a community that had always been safe and inclusive.

I am very fortunate to have the opportunity as the principal of Yokayo Elementary to show my appreciation for our wonderful community. Instilling the values of what a small town represents strengthens the connections and relationships that form.

At Yokayo, we ground our academic work with children in the fundamental character traits of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. These traits will serve children not only in our school environment but also in their everyday lives. It is how we treat each other that impacts a community. When schools, community groups, and families work together to support learning, children tend to do better in school, stay in school longer, and like school more.

We strive to have the greater Ukiah community as an active part of our school-based activities. Our College & Career Day, Read Across America, Caroling for Canned Goods, Harvest Festival, and Veterans Day Brunch Celebration are examples of Yokayo’s activities to bring the community into our schools. Local law enforcement, the fire department, small business owners, medical personnel, coaches, and neighborhood families are just a small sample of those who graciously give their time and expertise to help our students grow and connect to the people who serve and live in  Ukiah.

We thank these outstanding individuals with gratitude as they help teach our students the value of generosity, servitude, and kindness. To quote Coretta Scott King, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”