Sentinel Staff Report–
Note: As part of The Sentinel’s 2024 coverage of local elections, we have asked a series of six identical questions to each of the San Juan Unified School District Board of Education candidates for Trustee Area 4. The questions are designed to give each of the candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves to the community and give voters an opportunity to learn more about each candidate. Candidates replied via email, and those who responded to each question in less than 100 words have their answers published word-for-word
Trustee Area 4 includes a small portion of Citrus Heights from Greenback Lane, south to Madison Avenue.
Meet Catrayel Wood:
Why are you running for the San Juan Unified School District Board of Education and what are your qualifications?
I am running for school board because the future of our children depends on the choices we make today. As the only candidate with a child in a district school, I live the experiences and challenges our families face every day. With over a decade of budget management experience, I am the only candidate prepared to guide the district with a steady hand, saving money where it counts. I have bipartisan support, with endorsements from the majority of the School Board, the San Juan Parents Association, and the Sacramento County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association. I’m committed to safe schools, community engagement, fiscal responsibility, and ensuring our focus remains on students first.
What are your top 2-3 priorities for improving education in Citrus Heights and its surrounding areas, and how do you propose to fund them?
My top priorities for improving education in Citrus Heights are school safety, community engagement, and fiscal responsibility. As costs continue to increase, we’re all feeling the pressure. With more than ten years of experience in budget management, I am the only candidate equipped to lead the district responsibly, ensuring savings where they matter most. Sound financial management is crucial; I will prioritize strategic investments while closely monitoring spending to align with student needs. By addressing these areas, we can create a sustainable, supportive educational environment that positively impacts student outcomes for years to come.
Do you support the district’s proposal for a $950 million dollar facilities improvement bond? Why or why not?
As both a father and candidate, I strongly support Measure P because it addresses critical needs in our schools, ensuring safe, clean, and functional learning environments. This bond will fund repairs for deteriorating classrooms, leaky roofs, and outdated water systems, while modernizing security and fire safety systems. It’s vital we work with skilled tradespeople to maintain safe campuses, while also being fiscally responsible with resources and taxpayer dollars. As the only candidate with a child in a district school and endorsed by the Chair of the Facilities Committee, I understand how crucial these investments are for our students’ success.
In March 2024, after hearing a report from the Citrus Heights Education Committee, the Citrus Heights City Council voted unanimously to pursue collaboration and partnership opportunities with the San Juan Unified School District, and work on efforts to “foster positive community engagement and support family involvement.” How would you, as a board member, foster future partnerships with Citrus Heights schools that are within your Trustee Area?
As a board member, I would prioritize fostering partnerships with Citrus Heights schools by strengthening community engagement. Building relationships with families, teachers, local businesses, and organizations is vital for our students’ success. I propose creating collaborative initiatives to support educational programs and address challenges together. Transparent communication and regular feedback will ensure that all voices in our community are heard and valued. As the only candidate endorsed by the San Juan Parents Association, I am committed to advocating for student-centered policies that foster positive community involvement and enhance educational opportunities for all.
Critical teacher shortages and high turnover have been significant issues throughout the district. What policies or programs would you support to both acquire and retain high-quality teachers and reduce burnout?
As a father of a district student and a senior budget and policy manager, I believe that competitive salaries, strong benefits, and professional development are crucial not only for attracting and retaining top teachers but also for supporting classified staff, such as paraeducators, custodians, food service workers, office staff, bus drivers, and maintenance teams. Every role is vital in creating a positive learning environment. To reduce burnout, we must foster a collaborative culture, lighten workloads, and offer mentorship programs, while also involving staff in decision-making and providing career advancement opportunities. Supporting our staff ensures a strong future for our schools.
