This year, the Mendocino County Board of Education is saying goodbye to two dedicated board members who have made lasting contributions to the county’s education community. Charlene Ford and Drew Duncan both chose not to seek re-election, ending their terms on the board.
Charlene Ford: lifelong educator and student advocate
Ford has served as a trustee for Area 3 in Covelo, Laytonville and Willits. She began her career in education in the 1960s. Ford’s passion for education spanned multiple roles, with teaching degrees from Cottee University in Missouri, Humboldt State University, and a master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma. In Arcata, she taught high school English and started classes for young pregnant mothers. At Willits, she has taught English and leadership classes for 21 years while also advising on extracurricular activities such as athletics and the school’s first student-led Christian club.
Her journey to the Mendocino County School Board began with a recommendation from a friend.
“I didn’t even know where the office was or that I had to campaign, but I decided to give it a try,” she recalls. During her 17 years of service, she enjoyed visiting schools, interacting with students and staff, and learning about the educational environment throughout the county.
“It’s the people who make it worthwhile and what makes it fun,” Ford reflected.
As she “graduates” from retirement, in her words, Ms. Ford is looking forward to spending time with family and friends, being active in her church, and continuing to be involved in education in new ways. She has also been encouraged by her granddaughter to write a memoir, which she has named “My Life So Far”.
Ford’s advice to new directors? Get ready for an amazing adventure! You’re always learning, exploring new places, and staying connected to what’s happening in the education world.
Drew Duncan: Bridging education and local politics
Mr. Duncan served as a trustee for Area 4 (Casper, Cleone, Fort Bragg, Leggett, Piercy and Westport) and held the title of Chairman of the Board for the past year.
Mr. Duncan is stepping down to pursue a new full-time teaching position. Duncan, who grew up in Mendocino County, attended local schools and earned a degree in political science before returning to coastal Mendocino County during the pandemic. He was elected to the MCOE board in 2020, when meetings were held virtually.
“I miss those pajama pants during meetings,” he joked.
Duncan’s career in education stemmed from a struggle as a student. His family – his grandmother, mother, and brother – were all educators, which inspired him to develop a deep respect for the profession.
“There are many reasons why people struggle in education, and it’s not because they don’t have the time, support, or resources,” he says.
After working as a paraeducator supporting teachers in the classroom, he wanted to give back to the coastal community.
“So much is happening, from policies and budgets to schools and programs, and it’s all made possible because of the dedication of those working on the front lines and behind the scenes in education. ”.
Duncan earned his teaching certification and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in education from the University of California, Davis. In his social studies classroom, he enjoys bringing local politics to life for his 8th grade students.
“Making local politics interesting can be difficult even for passionate adults, but making it meaningful for students is especially rewarding,” he said.
What advice would you give to new board members and educators?If you only read school board documents, it can be easy to feel like you are one step removed from education. Visit all sites, graduation ceremonies, and events. You will feel more connected when you go out and see things first hand. It’s really rewarding and helps you understand the complexities of the county. It was a very valuable experience, so I’m sad to leave.
legacy of service
Serving on the Mendocino County Board of Education provides a unique opportunity to shape education policy, advocate for students, and make a lasting impact on schools across the county. Ford and Duncan are credited. Mendocino County Schools Superintendent Nicole Grenzer said the Mendocino County Office of Education and the education community appreciates Mendocino County’s leadership and commitment to its schools and students.
The Mendocino County Board of Education is comprised of five trustees based on supervisory districts, with each trustee elected to a four-year term. Two seats will be up for election this fall. In Trustee Area 3, Michelle Hutchins and David R. Strzok are running for the vacant seat. In Trustee Area 4, Nancy J. Bennett will assume the position after filing no objection. The new board members are scheduled to take office on December 16, 2024.
