Leadership in Action: Sonora Elementary School District Board of Trustees
The Sonora Elementary School District has a dedicated Board of Trustees committed to providing the best education for students. They work collaboratively with parents, staff, and the community to set policies, establish goals, and foster a student-centered environment. Transparency, accountability, and student-centeredness are their core values, making them essential partners in promoting educational excellence and creating a positive learning environment for all students.
NOTICE OF VACANCY
The Sonora Elementary School District is accepting applications to fill three Board of Trustee vacancies. Applications are due April 3, 2026 at 4:00 PM. Click here for the official notice and application materials.
Meet our Board Trustees
Kathy Francis
Board Member
Current Term: 2022-2026
kfrancis@sesk12.org
This is my 9th term on the board, which makes 36 years as of this past January. Because I was a teacher in a neighboring district (Columbia) and care deeply about the teachers, the children, and their families, I have stayed on the board to offer my perspective from a teacher’s viewpoint.
My husband, Roger, and his dad, Ralph, attended Sonora Elementary. Ralph’s dad, Joseph Francis, was a trustee. Our children Kerri, Katie, and Ryan were fourth-generation Bobcats.
I am currently active in Omega Nu, Alpha Iota chapter. It is a local group that raises money to help women and children in need in Tuolumne County.
Paige Caudle
Board Member
Current Term: 2024-2028
pcoffin@sesk12.org
As a third-generation resident of Tuolumne County, I am proud to be part of this community along with my husband and our two children, who are currently enrolled at Sonora Elementary School. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve as a new board member and am deeply committed to investing in our community. My goal is to collaborate with my fellow members to establish and achieve ambitious standards and objectives for our school.
Steven Treat
Temporary Appointment
streat@sesk12.org
Appointed on February 24, 2026, to serve as a temporary member of the Sonora Elementary School Board. Mr. Treat currently serves as President of the Tuolumne County Board of Education, representing Trustee Area 2. Swearing-in is scheduled for the March 11, 2026 board meeting.
Cyndi Simonson
Temporary Appointment
csimonson@sesk12.org
Appointed on February 24, 2026, to serve as a temporary member of the Sonora Elementary School Board. Ms. Simonson currently represents Trustee Area 7 on the Tuolumne County Board of Education. Swearing-in is scheduled for the March 11, 2026 board meeting.
Jerry Whitehead III
Temporary Appointment
jwhitehead@sesk12.org
Appointed on February 24, 2026, to serve as a temporary member of the Sonora Elementary School Board. Mr. Whitehead currently represents Trustee Area 3 on the Tuolumne County Board of Education. Swearing-in is scheduled for the March 11, 2026 board meeting.