Join the Journey
of Public Education
New Series Highlights Job Openings
Across Schools in Santa Barbara County
By Ellery Wakeman | November 21, 2024
Read more of our 2024 Schools of Thought stories here.
Amid a critical staffing shortage across our schools, the Santa Barbara County Education Office (SBCEO) multimedia series Join the Journey features the professionals of public education who keep campuses humming and students flourishing. The stories celebrate these dedicated employees while inviting potential applicants to learn more about a variety of fulfilling career paths.
“From teachers and classroom aides to professionals in areas like finance, human resources, special education, transportation, technology, and early care education — campuses and districts across the county are looking for amazing people to fill many critical roles,” said Susan Salcido, Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools.
Join the Journey spotlights employees like Goleta Union bus driver Lupe Medrano, who speaks about the joy of bringing kids to and from school in her nearly 20 years with the district. “I am often the first school staff that our students see,” she says. “I am inspired knowing I play this vital role in students’ journeys.”
If you are thinking about a career in education, Medrano continues, “I can say from 20 years of experience that working as a school bus driver is worth your consideration. The people you get to work with, the students you serve, and the community you are a part of make it a wonderful place to land.”
Erin Shurson, a dedicated Speech and Language pathologist in Santa Maria, echoes a similar sentiment. “I’m so glad that I chose this path and am on this journey,” she says. “The field of speech pathology is desperately in need of great people. There are so many different populations you can serve and places you can work, including our schools.”
Diane Campo, a special education paraprofessional, explains the variety of jobs available create an environment where staff are invested and passionate about what they do. “I assist students who require individualized support to reach their personal and educational goals,” she says. “I truly love my job, my coworkers, and the students.”
On behalf of public school districts countywide, Join the Journey is part of SBCEO’s recruitment and retention efforts to fill essential positions. “We want to create a pipeline for the future generation of school employees by bringing awareness to the field,” said Camilla Barnwell, Director of Communications & Public Information Officer.
“This campaign is our way of spotlighting the many professional opportunities and benefits in the field of public education, including amazing colleagues, growth potential, and competitive salaries,” said Salcido. “We hope to inspire those who are looking to launch a career, or even find a new path.”
“In every region of our county,” she continued, “schools need individuals with a variety of skills to keep our
campuses running and our students thriving, both inside and outside of the classroom.”
Those interested in joining in the journey of public education can learn more at sbceo.org.
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