Thirty-three staff members retire this year, providing over 650 years of service to Tulare County students

This afternoon, a number of employees who retired during the current school year or plan to retire this month, attended a meeting of the Tulare County Board of Education where they were congratulated on their years of service to TCOE. This year, a total of 33 teachers, administrators, and support staff retired with 655 years of service to Tulare County students and school districts.

“Our retires devoted an average of over 20 years each to our programs – from Early Childhood Education and Special Services to Maintenance & Operations,” said Tim Hire, Tulare County Superintendent of Schools. “We appreciate their dedication to the work that we do on behalf of students and schools in Tulare County. We wish each of them a happy and healthy retirement!”

Below is a brief summary of each retiree as submitted by their supervisors and coworkers:

2025-26 Tulare County Office of Education retirees

John Alvarez, Leadership Support Services, Administrator, 8 years
John Alvarez retired in September 2025, concluding a distinguished career spanning more than 35 years in education. He began in 1990 as an elementary teacher with Visalia Unified School District, serving students and families for 12 years before moving into administration. His leadership journey included roles as assistant principal at Goshen Elementary and principal at Highland Elementary and Mountain View Elementary, where he successfully transitioned the school to a TK–8 model.

In 2017, Alvarez joined the Tulare County Office of Education’s Leadership Support Services department, where he served for eight years. He became a highly respected leader, supporting all 43 districts in Tulare County through the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process and overseeing TCOE-authorized charter schools.

Known for his thoughtful leadership and deep commitment to public education, John Alvarez leaves a lasting legacy of service, collaboration, and dedication to students, educators, and school communities.

Sylvia Avila, Early Childhood Education Program, Supervisor, 25 years
Sylvia Avila joined the Early Childhood Education Program (ECEP) in 2001. Over her 25 years with ECEP, she served as both a teacher and center supervisor.

Those she supervised shared that Avila was a kind and steady leader who built strong relationships with her teams. Staff appreciated her support, clear communication, and positive attitude.

Avila helped others feel prepared to handle changes and challenges. She frequently encouraged those she worked with to see themselves as capable and ready to grow. Avila gave them opportunities to learn and they appreciated her faith in their potential. She made a lasting impact on those she worked with, and the ECEP staff wish her a great time in retirement!

Marcelina Basurto, Early Childhood Education Program, Teacher Assistant, 21 years
After 21 amazing years working with preschoolers, Marcelina Busurto is getting ready to retire — and what a journey it’s been. As a mom of eight, she brought so much real-life experience into her work, making each classroom feel like home.

Her warmth, patience, and big heart made a huge difference, helping to create a place where children felt safe, happy, and excited to learn. She’s touched so many lives over the years, not just with the families, but with her co-workers.

As she moves on to this next chapter, the Early Childhood Education Program celebrates everything she’s done, the kindness she shared, the dedication she showed, and all the children and families she impacted along the way.

Roger Beavers, Maintenance & Operations, Director, 32 years
Roger Beavers faithfully served TCOE for 31 years, leaving a legacy built on dedication, professionalism, and heart. From his early days as a night custodian at Maple Learning Center and later at the Burrel administration office, to rising through the ranks and becoming director of Maintenance & Operations (M&O), Beavers’ journey reflects hard work, humility, and unwavering commitment.

His deep knowledge of every site, his steady leadership, and his genuine care for staff and students made him an invaluable part of the TCOE family. While his presence will be deeply missed, the hallways will forever echo with his unforgettable phrases — “Come on man,” “True that,” “Right, right,” “Show you right,” and “Gone.” The M&O staff say, “It has truly been a pleasure to know Roger and to work alongside him as he made TCOE a better place for all.”

Melody Camarillo, AcCEL Program, Student Information Systems Specialist, 29 years
Melody Camarillo began her education career in 1992 with the Special Friends Program at Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified School District, where she supported students across multiple campuses. In 1997, she joined TCOE’s Educational Resource Services department, delivering materials to schools and supporting classrooms during the era of VHS-based instruction.

In 2000, Camarillo became a school secretary for the Court and Community Schools program, serving both the Juvenile Detention Facility and Youth Facility. She later supported the assistant superintendent of Special Services in various clerical and administrative roles, ultimately serving as a student information systems specialist.

Throughout her career, Camarillo was known for her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to anticipate needs. In retirement, she continues serving others through Pet Partners with her dog, Bo, providing pet therapy to schools, hospitals, and first responders, positively impacting thousands across Tulare County.

Rachel Castillo, Early Childhood Education Program, Home Educator, 32 years
After 32 years of dedicated service, Rachel Castillo retires following a career defined by compassion, patience, and an unwavering commitment to children and families. She began as a preschool home educator, later serving 12 years as a center-based teacher, before returning to the home-based program as an Early Head Start educator.

Throughout her career, Castillo mentored and advised college students pursuing education careers, inspiring many through her guidance and example. She also earned her bachelor’s degree while working, encouraging others to continue their own educational journeys. Her dedication extended to the families she served as she consistently supported parents in pursuing employment and education to build brighter futures.

Castillo’s work went far beyond a profession — it was a calling. She touched countless lives and made a lasting impact on students, families, and communities. Her care, wisdom, and encouragement will continue to inspire for years to come.

LeAnn Chapman, SCICON, Cook, 14 years
LeAnn Chapman began her work at SCICON as a sub cook’s helper in 2007. In 2011, she was hired as a full-time cook’s helper. She enjoyed many years of serving the students of SCICON nutritional food and helping them as they worked in the kitchen after meals for cabin points. Helping to prepare over 1,000 meals for students each week, Chapman was an important part of the SCICON family for many years. The SCICON staff shares that she is missed.

Josephine Espinoza, Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program, Instruction Assistant, 16 years
Before joining TCOE, Josephine (Josie) Espinoza worked for Tulare County District Attorney's Office as a family support interviewer and later as a supervisor, retiring after 30 years of dedicated service to the Child Support Office.

In June 2010, Espinoza returned to the workforce and joined TCOE Special Services as a deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) instructional aide. Her early assignments included working part time at Sundale Union School and supporting three preschool students with cochlear implants, while also serving part time with the TCOE Special Services Preschool Program. Shortly thereafter, she was hired full time to support students with hearing impairments throughout Tulare County.

In reflecting on her time with TCOE, Espinoza said, “I am grateful, thankful, and blessed!” Her warm and friendly demeanor will be greatly missed by her coworkers. The Related Services department thanks Josie Espinoza for her many years of dedicated service, compassion, and commitment to supporting students and families.

Deserie Guerra, AcCEL Program, Teacher, 15 years
Desiree Guerra dedicated 15 years of service as an educator, making a lasting impact on students and families through her commitment to inclusive and meaningful learning experiences.

During her time at Strathmore High School, she worked closely with staff to provide students with valuable opportunities to participate in agriculture and physical education classes, helping to expand their access to real-world and inclusive school experiences.

Guerra is known for her collaborative approach, strong advocacy for students with diverse needs, and her dedication to supporting both academic and personal growth. Her contributions have left a lasting mark on the students and communities she served.

Richard Hernandez, Maintenance & Operations, Lead Maintenance Worker, 26 years
Richard Hernandez was truly a man among men at TCOE — a legend in every sense of the word. Over his remarkable 26 years of service, he set a standard of dedication and work ethic that few could ever match.

At 84 years old, Hernandez could still run circles around staff decades younger, showing all what commitment and passion really looks like. The only ones celebrating his retirement might be the gophers out at Doe, who can finally breathe a little easier.

He leaves behind a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to work with him, from his unmistakably loud ringtone to his signature sign off, “Have a blessed day.” His presence will be deeply missed, but the legend of Richard Hernandez will live on at TCOE forever.

Nicole Hirni, AcCEL Program, Teacher, 13 years
Nicole Hirni began her career in 1987 teaching general education. She taught a variety of grades in small school districts from 1987 until 2013.

From 2002-2008, Hirni also supported new teachers through the TCOE BTSA (Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment) program as a support provider and support provider trainer.

In 2013, Hirni moved to the AcCEL program with TCOE Special Services. She taught in an AcCEL classroom at Green Acres Middle School from 2013-2022. Since 2022, she has taught preschool for the AcCEL program at Annie R. Mitchell Elementary and, most recently, Crestwood Elementary preschool.

Hirni continues to offer support and instructional ideas to other AcCEL teachers. She creates engaging thematic units for students with all abilities. She works closely with families to support students in meeting their goals. The staff says, “Thank you for your dedication to AcCEL students, you will be truly missed by all!”

Brook Killingsworth, District Support Services, Secretary to Assistant Superintendent, 13 years
Brook Killingsworth is recognized for her 13 years of dedicated service at the Tulare County Office of Education, where she served as secretary to the Assistant Superintendent of District Support Services. In this role, she was a vital contributor to the success of numerous student events, providing leadership and coordination that helped bring them to life.

Among her many contributions, Killngsworth played a key role in organizing and supporting the annual Spelling Bee and Poetry and Prose events, creating meaningful experiences for students across the county. Her commitment, attention to detail, and passion for supporting student achievement left a lasting impact on TCOE and the districts TCOE supports.

Mary Leal, Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program, Teacher, 26 years
With 26 years of teaching experience, Mary Leal has dedicated her career to supporting deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) students across a variety of educational settings. She began her teaching career in the summer of 1994 as a Special Day Class DHH preschool teacher at the Clinite Center in Tulare, which at the time served as a school for deaf and hard of hearing students.

Throughout her career, Leal has worked with students ranging from infants and preschoolers through high schoolers and adults, supporting both specialized and inclusive educational programs. Her experience includes teaching in preschool programs for deaf and hard of hearing students, co-teaching in general education classrooms, substitute teaching across multiple districts, and serving as an itinerant DHH specialist.

Leal’s greatest joy as a teacher has been to, “watch their faces light up when they understand a concept or communicate independently in either words or signs to express themselves.” The Special Services Division wishes Mary Leal joy, relaxation, and many wonderful adventures in retirement!

Tammy Lockridge, AcCEL Program, Instruction Assistant, 26 years
Tammy worked with numerous students over her career and made a difference in each of their lives. She always found a way to make them smile or laugh and enjoy their time in the classroom with her.  Tammy loved her students and tended to their daily needs.  She was consistent in her own daily routine, knowing what the students needed and making sure she shared with others. The AcCEL Program wishes Tammy Lockridge a happy and healthy retirement.

Linda Machado, Early Childhood Education Program, Home Educator, 10 years
Early Childhood Education (ECE) celebrates Linda Machado on her retirement and honors the compassion and care she shared throughout her career. Her warm spirit touched countless children, families, and colleagues.

Machado began her career in 2006 as a Bright Start teacher assistant and joined TCOE-ECE in 2015 as an Early Head Start home educator. Through patience, encouragement, and unwavering support, she created nurturing environments where children and families felt valued and empowered.

Her dedication extended beyond her role, as she built meaningful relationships and provided guidance and reassurance to those she served. A trusted colleague, mentor, and friend, her professionalism, strong work ethic, and positive spirit enriched the team and strengthened the program. Her contributions and the lasting impact she made will be remembered and appreciated for years to come.

Pamela Malloy, Special Services - Related Services, Secretary, 20 years
Pam Malloy has been a valued member of TCOE since 2006, bringing with her a wealth of experience and dedication. Prior to joining TCOE, she spent six years with Sundale School, where she served as an instructional aide, tutor, and office assistant. Before beginning her career in education, Malloy gained many years of experience in office management and administrative leadership across several industries and states. Her diverse professional background provided a strong foundation of organization, dedication, and people-centered service that she later carried into her work in education.

Malloy will be remembered for the meaningful relationships she built with her staff and supervisors throughout the years. Her greatest accomplishment was the investment she made in others — professionally, personally, and spiritually — always offering encouragement, support, and compassion during difficult times. The Special Services Division thanks her for her caring nature and dedication, which has left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of working with her.

Hulda Mendoza, Early Childhood Education Program, Teacher Assistant, 20 years
Hulda Mendoza’s journey in early childhood education spanned 25 years, guided by her passion for working with children. She began by taking child development classes and earned an Associate of Science from College of the Sequoias. After five years as a substitute teacher, she was hired at Ivanhoe Child Development Center and later continued her career at Woodlake CDC, where she served for many years until retirement.

Throughout her career, Mendoza found deep joy in nurturing young learners and building meaningful relationships. One especially touching moment came when a former preschool student, now a high schooler, reunited with her years later — a testament to the lasting bonds she created.

Mendoza’s dedication to education also inspired her three daughters to pursue higher education and successful careers. In retirement, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and traveling with family and friends.

Ronald Rea, Early Childhood Education Program, Maintenance Supervisor, 27 years
For 27 years, Ronald Rea has been the quiet force behind the scenes — fixing what was broken, preventing what could go wrong, and supporting everyone around him with patience and skill. As maintenance supervisor, he became the person people trusted most: the one who showed up, figured it out, and made things better.

Rea’s work ethic was matched only by his kindness. Whether he was training new staff, responding to late day calls, or lending a hand where it was needed, he approached every task with humility and pride. His coworkers describe him as steady, dependable, and genuinely good-hearted.

Now, as Rea begins his well-earned retirement, he leaves behind a workplace made stronger by his presence. His team will miss his humor, his mentorship, and his ability to turn challenges into solutions. The team says, “We wish him joy, rest, and new adventures in the years ahead.”

Maria Jessie Reyes, Early Childhood Education Program, Regional Supervisor, 15 years
Jessie Reyes dedicated over 46 years to early childhood education, bringing passion and care to every role she has held. Before joining Tulare County ECEP in March 2011, she worked with migrant families in Fresno County, building strong connections with the communities she served.

During her 15 years with ECEP, Reyes was a teacher, supervisor, and regional supervisor. She began at Richgrove Child Development Center, which continues to hold a special place in her heart. Reyes found deep meaning in supporting families working in the fields and loved being part of a team that worked through challenges together.

Reyes is known for her warm, approachable nature and her ability to connect with children, families, and staff. She has noted that she will miss the camaraderie she shared with her coworkers and center staff. And of course, she’ll always be remembered as an amazing cook and a favorite at any potluck!

Sherri Rocha, External Business Services, Accounting Officer, 37 years
Sherri Rohca was hired in May 1989 and worked in both the Internal and External Business Services departments. She first retired in 2020 but returned as a retired annuitant to train and mentor new accountants and district business managers. In 2023, Rocha was officially reinstated from retirement and was soon promoted to accounting officer. From beginning to end, her career with TCOE spanned nearly 37 years.

Throughout her career, Rocha has primarily served in a fiscal oversight and support role for Tulare County’s 43 school districts. District and TCOE staff alike recognize her as a fiscal expert in school finance and as someone deeply committed to guiding and encouraging school business leaders.

More significant than simply passing knowledge from one generation to the next is the confidence she instilled in those who have benefited from her mentorship – this is her lasting legacy.

Maria Elena Rodriguez, Early Childhood Education Program, Early Head Start Home Base Educator, 27 years
After 27 years of dedicated service, Maria Elena Rodriguez completes a career defined by compassion, patience, and an unwavering commitment to children and families.

She began her journey with the Early Childhood Education Program in 1998 at the Senaida Garcia Center as a toddler teacher, serving in that role for over 14 years. During that time, she also mentored College of the Sequoias students, inspiring future educators, and earned her bachelor’s degree in 2014 Rodriguez modeled lifelong learning for those around her.

In 2014, she transitioned to Early Head Start as a home educator, continuing to support children and families until her retirement. Rodriguez consistently encouraged parents to pursue education and employment, helping them build brighter futures.

Her compassion, professionalism, and dedication have left a lasting impact on countless lives. A trusted colleague and friend, Maria Rodriguez’s presence, wisdom, and encouragement will be deeply missed, and her legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.

Aipa Saesee, AcCEL Program, Instruction Assistant, 10 years
Aipa Saesee has been an instructional assistant with the AcCEL Program for 10 years, retiring in Fall 2025. Saesee showed up every day with patience and compassion for working with his students. He always remained calm and showed patience in times of stress. The AcCEL staff express their appreciation for his commitment, “Thank you for your dedication to our students and congratulations on your retirement!”

Jesse Sanchez, Leadership Support Services, Administrator, 1 year
Jesse Sanchez retires after a career defined by integrity, compassion, and dedicated leadership in service to students, families, and school communities.

He began in 1995 as a sixth-grade teacher with Visalia Unified School District, later transitioning into counseling in 1998. In 2003, he moved into administration, serving as an assistant principal at Lindsay Unified. In 2008, Sanchez became principal of Crowley Elementary in Visalia and later spent over a decade in leadership roles with Dinuba Unified School District. He concludes his career with TCOE in the Leadership Support Services department.

Throughout his journey as a teacher, counselor, principal, district administrator, and county leader, Sanchez remained committed to expanding opportunities for students and fostering positive, supportive school environments. Known for his steady leadership, collaborative spirit, and genuine care for others, he leaves a lasting impact. In retirement, he looks forward to family time and exploring the outdoors.

Justina Sanchez, Early Childhood Education Program, Home Educator, 25 years
Justina Sanchez dedicated 25 years to the Early Childhood Education Program (ECEP) as a home educator. During the summers, she also served as a preschool teacher for Ducor. Throughout her career, Sanchez built meaningful relationships with families, children, coworkers, and members of the community, always bringing warmth and dedication to her work.

Over the years, Sanchez embraced change with resilience and continued to grow both personally and professionally. As English is her second language, she worked hard to strengthen her communication skills, demonstrating perseverance and determination.

The ECEP staff is grateful for Justina Sanchez’s years of service, and the positive impact made on so many lives.

Christina Sartuche, Educational Resource Services, Curriculum Support Technician, 20 years
Christina Sartuche has been a cornerstone of the ERS team, providing steadfast support to her work family. Before joining TCOE, she spent seven years as a secretary at Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified School District. For the past 20 years, she has served as a pillar of excellence within ERS.

She has contributed her talents across the ELA, arts, and math teams, consistently demonstrating organization, punctuality, and the ability to anticipate needs well in advance. Sartuche is known for going above and beyond — supporting consultants, assisting colleagues, and volunteering at TCOE student events with enthusiasm and care.

Her attention to detail, positive sense of humor, and genuine kindness have made a lasting impact. Sartuche’s dedication and heart have touched everyone she’s worked with, and her warmth, strong work ethic, and forward thinking will be deeply missed.

Sandra Tadeo, Early Childhood Education Program, Kitchen Supervisor, 28 years
Sandra Tadeo began her career with ECEP in 1998 and dedicated many years of hard work and service before retiring in 2025. Throughout her career, she worked at multiple locations as a cook manager, where she became known for her strong work ethic, leadership, and kindness.

Tadeo is an excellent cook who always took pride in preparing meals with care and dedication. Her talent in the kitchen, along with her warm personality, made a lasting impact on the students, staff, and coworkers she worked with over the years.

Her commitment, experience, and passion for her work will always be remembered and appreciated. Sandra Tadeo leaves behind a wonderful legacy of service, friendship, and excellence.

Lilia Tapia, Early Childhood Education Program, Teacher, 17 years
After an inspiring 17-year career as a preschool teacher, Lilia Tapia entered retirement.  Specializing in early childhood education, Tapia served TCOE’s youngest learners at the Cutler Child Development Center. She worked with her teaching team in managing the environment, routine, and curriculum of her classroom. Tapia always found unique ways to guide and instruct the children in her care. She helped families feel comfortable as well.

As a bilingual educator, Tapia maintained positive and open communication with every parent she worked with. She enjoyed working with all staff and families, and she found joy in taking care of those in her care. The Early Childhood Education Program appreciates Lilia Tapia’s positive contributions to the students and families she served over the years.

Tamara Taylor, Bright Start Program, Administrative Secretary, 17 years
Tamara (Tammy) Taylor joined the Bright Start Parent Infant Program in May 2009. In those early days, staff visited children at home and hosted small in-office group sessions to prepare them for preschool.

Throughout her tenure, Taylor worked under several program managers — Maxine Epperson, Sarah Hamilton, and LouAnn Lubben — before spending the last decade with Ron Pekarek. Reflecting on her time, she shared, "I have enjoyed working with the teachers and aides and love hearing how they help develop young lives while giving parents the tools they need to support children with challenges."

The impact of her work is best captured by the families she served; one parent recalled how her son went from being non-verbal to speaking, counting, and reciting his ABCs thanks to Bright Start. "As I retire, I will look back on many fond memories shared with the staff, whom I consider friends," Taylor said.

Kathy Thompson, New Teacher & Leadership Development, Intern/Recruitment Program Specialist, 19 years
Kathy Thompson retired from TCOE after more than 19 years of dedicated service supporting new educators through the New Teacher and Leadership Development program and the California Center on Teaching Careers.

Thompson embraced TCOE’s core values of Grow and Empower and Commit to Serve, finding fulfillment in helping new teachers and aspiring administrators complete their credentials and launch successful careers in Tulare County. She took great pride in guiding others forward, inspired by a lifelong commitment to serving others. Her dedication extended to program participants, colleagues, the organization, and students across the county.

In retirement, she looks forward to more family time, attending her grandchildren’s events, traveling, gardening, baking bread, and writing a recipe book.

Sharon Twitty, College and Career Readiness Program, ARCHES Executive Director, 10 years
Sharon Twitty, a proud Tulare County native and graduate of Visalia schools and College of the Sequoias, has dedicated 38 years to education. She began her career in Chowchilla, serving from 1988 to 1995, before advancing to leadership roles as assistant superintendent at the Merced County Office of Education and later as a senior administrator with the Fresno County Office of Education.

For the past decade, Twitty returned to her roots in Tulare County, making a lasting impact on college and career preparation as the statewide executive director of ARCHES (Alliance for Regional Collaboration to Heighten Educational Success). A respected voice in the field of education, she has been published nationally and has delivered numerous presentations across the country, including several in Washington, D.C. Her career reflects a deep commitment to educational leadership, innovation, and service to students and educators alike.

Josie Valdez, Early Childhood Education Program, IEEEP Coordinator, 31 years
Josie Valdez dedicated more than 30 years to the Early Childhood Education Program, making a lasting difference for children, families, and educators. Her connection to Head Start began in infancy, when she was enrolled in one of its earliest programs in Washington. Inspired by its impact, she later returned as a parent at Orosi Child Development Center, where both of her children were enrolled. Her involvement grew as she joined the Parent Policy Council, serving as chair in 1986.

From 1986 to 1989, she worked as a recruiter, later returning in 1994 as a teacher assistant. Over the years, she held roles including family service worker, education/eligibility specialist, and disability specialist, earning her bachelor’s degree along the way.

In her final years, Valdez served as an Inclusion Grant program coordinator, supporting inclusive practices across Tulare County. Her compassion, leadership, and commitment leave a lasting legacy.

Juanita Villarreal, AcCEL Program, Instruction Assistant, 13 years
Juanita (Janie) Villarreal began her career with TCOE at the Yettem Learning Center, later transferring to various special day class programs in Dinuba and Orosi.

Villarreal did a wonderful job of assisting teachers with ULS benchmark assessments to measure students’ mastery of academic skills and progress in meeting IEP goals. She was also a big support to the young adults in the Community Based Instruction Program, taking them to their workplaces.

In the classroom, Villarreal was a positive force, supporting teachers with their lesson plans.

Kathy Woodruff, AcCEL Program, Instruction Assistant, 13 years
Kathy Woodruff has been an instructional aide with the AcCEL Program for 13 years. She displayed many qualities that allow her to meet students’ academic and behavioral needs.

Woodruff always arrives at work with a positive attitude and a big smile. Staff that have worked with her over the years say she is calm and kind to all students she works with. She has a huge heart and love for her students. “Kathy – you will be greatly missed by students and staff; enjoy your retirement!”

Editor: Robert Herman, Communications Director
Contributors: Nayirah Dosu, Jennifer Fisher, Jaime Burnitzki, Ramon Garcia, Briana Garza, Jeff Lynch

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