Source: CA State Parks
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) has developed a five-year strategic plan to help shape the future direction of the state park system and the many recreational and conservation programs that serve California’s communities.
Named Path Forward, the strategic plan aligns with Governor Gavin Newsom’s Equity Executive Order N-16-22, 30X30 and Outdoor Access for All initiatives and will guide State Parks in strengthening operations to focus on key priorities and directing energy and resources toward meeting the goals and objectives. The themes, goals, and objectives in the plan are based on the foundational elements of access, inclusivity, and equity to provide optimal public service, strengthen partnership development, and empower the department’s workforce.
“The Path Forward strategic plan is about resilience and focusing on how we prepare the department for the century ahead,” stated State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “California needs these natural and cultural resources for everyone’s wellbeing. State Parks leadership, employees, and partners are committed to caring for your California. This is where you live.”
An employee workgroup composed of more than 100 frontline staff, managers, and supervisors representing all field regions, headquarters, and all program areas, was assembled to develop the Path Forward Plan. The vision, themes, goals, objectives, and core values were created and refined over several virtual meetings and reviewed by a partner and stakeholder advisory committee, employees, commissions, and executive staff along the way.
The input and perspective of stakeholders and partners helped to inform the final version of the plan and to ensure that the future of State Parks reflects the diverse experiences and priorities represented in the State of California.
Two factors set Path Forward apart from previous change efforts. Department staff from all levels developed the plan with input from partners, rather than an executive team taking a top-down approach. The second factor will begin in winter 2024 and involves an actionable implementation plan led by a committee made up of key leaders representing all program areas. The implementation plan includes interdisciplinary teams to carry out and manage projects tied to the goals and objectives of the plan. These teams will use a designated project management tool to develop specific plans, timelines, and evaluation metrics to achieve each goal. The teams will provide regular progress and status updates.
By using this strategic plan as a guide, a course of action has been developed to support State Parks in meeting challenges. The plan will also create new strategies for institutional growth and optimization.
With 280 park units, California’s State Park System is a world-class network of incomparable lands, waters, and features vitally important to the well-being of the state’s environment, economy, and people. State Parks manages these precious natural and cultural resources while providing hundreds of recreational and conservation programs and services for millions of Californians and visitors from all over the world.
The Path Forward Plan is available in English and is translatable to several other languages at parks.ca.gov/PathForward.
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SnugArooz Bix Fix Friends dog and cat toys for the Pet Food Express campaign. Source: Pet Food Express
Sale of exclusive toys from SnugArooz benefits nonprofit clinics throughout California including Animal Rescue Foundation in Contra Costa County to impact animal overpopulation
Pet Food Express, a trusted California pet retailer and advocate for animal welfare, is excited to launch The Big Fix at https://www.petfood.express/bigfix. The new campaign is aimed at impacting animal overpopulation and the overcrowding of animal rescue organizations, as well as bringing awareness to the need for essential spay and neuter services for California’s pets. Available for purchase now online and in stores, customers can get exclusive, limited-edition toys from SnugArooz, known as Big Fix Friends (BFFs), where 50% of the retail price will go directly to 10 nonprofit, public-facing, low-cost, or sliding-scale spay and neuter clinic programs.
“Every year, too many animals suffer due to overpopulation, leading to strained resources and, in some cases, homelessness. The Big Fix is our response to this pressing issue,” Denyelle Bruno, CEO of Pet Food Express stated. “We’re committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of pets and their families.”
The Big Fix nonprofit partners include, Animal Rescue Foundation, Berkeley Humane, Napa Humane, Peninsula Humane Society, Pasadena Humane, Sacramento SPCA, San Francisco SPCA, Silicon Valley Animal Control Authority, Spay Neuter Imperative Project and Valley Humane Society.
“Spay and neuter is the most effective way to fight pet overpopulation and decrease the number of unaltered, homeless, and unwanted pets,” said Lisa Van Buskirk, Senior Vice President at Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA, During the last 70 years, we have seen that altering animals has been instrumental in decreasing the number of incoming animals, thereby reducing our euthanasia rate by 99% in San Mateo County.”
The limited-edition Big Fix Friends dog and cat toys retail for $9.99 and $5.99, respectively. For dogs, Fang Cuddlearms features a squeaky body and long, stretchy arms. For cats, Spike Hugface entertains with a catnip and crinkle middle. The Big Fix will continue until all toys are sold out or until the end of the calendar year 2024, whichever comes first.
Spaying and neutering play a crucial role in combating pet overpopulation, reducing the number of homeless and unwanted animals, as well as producing positive effects on pet behavior, health, and longevity.
For more information on Pet Food Express’ Community Programs or to find out how to become an adoption partner, please visit www.petfood.express.
ABOUT PET FOOD EXPRESS
Pet Food Express is California’s trusted pet expert dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier lives. With a reimagined experience delivered by animal-loving team members, Pet Food Express sells a variety of high quality products that they trust to give their own pets, puts pets above profits, and leads the way as a committed partner to 275+ non-profit animal rescue and shelter organizations annually. Shop and learn more at www.petfood.express. Get social on Facebook and Instagram.
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Two stolen cars and items recovered, and fake gun discovered in one of the vehicles by San Pablo Police. Photos: SPPD
By San Pablo Police Department
Teamwork Makes The Dream Work
It was another busy week for officers in San Pablo, as they remained proactive protecting the city. This tremendous effort resulted in 24 arrests and the recovery of six stolen cars! A few snippets for those of you who are curious…
The other day, officers found bad guy driving a stolen car through town. The driver was arrested, and he was found to have thousands of dollars, a cash drawer, gloves, a mask, a fake pistol, bolt cutters and gift cards to FBI Burger in Novato. We decided to call our friends at Novato Police to help put the puzzle pieces together, and sure enough, found out a couple of businesses in Marin County had been recently broken into!
Earlier last week, a few guys tried to steal beer from a local liquor store without paying. When the clerk tried to stop them, they threatened him with a knife and tried to stab him. Thanks to the quick response of our officers, all three men were located and arrested.
On Friday, Feb. 9, officers found another bad guy in a stolen car parked at Nations, which was just stolen from El Cerrito. The thief tried to run but he was quickly apprehended with the help of our four-legged friend, K-9 Riddik. The owner was reunited with her Prius.
To wrap it all up, on Saturday, officers stopped a car wanted by Dixon Police for organized retail theft. Lo and behold, a bunch of stolen loot was located, and the crooks were identified, one of which had a warrant. Needless to say, their getaway vehicle was towed.
This would not have been possible without the partnership and support of our community and fellow law enforcement friends!
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Mailer from Save Mount Diablo shows how the five Pittsburg councilmembers voted on the Faria housing development last year. Source: Save Mount Diablo
Two running for county supervisor on March 5th ballot; org leader says they have no position in race
By Allen D. Payton
A week before the ballots for the March 5th primary election began arriving in mailboxes, a mailer from Save Mount Diablo (SMD) was sent to all households in Pittsburg asking for public support of their effort to get the council members to reverse their vote last April for Discovery Builders’ hillside housing development. Known as the Faria project, the project includes 1,500 homes on 341 acres with 265 acres of open space on the south side of the city which borders the new Thurgood Marshall Regional Park in Concord.
The mailer reads, “On April 17, 2023, the Pittsburg City Council approved a Master Plan for the Faria/Southwest Hills Annexation Project.” It shows photos of and “aye” votes by then Mayor Shanelle Preston-Scales, Councilmember Jelani Killings, who are both running for county supervisor in the March 5th primary election, as well as Councilmembers Dionne Adams and Angelica Lopez. But the leader of SMD claims they have no position in the race for supervisor. The mailer also shows then-Vice Mayor Juan Antonio Banales who voted to abstain.
In addition, the mailer claims, the “plan…was opposed by thousands of residents, environmentalists and the city Planning Commission, which recommended against the plan.”
Faria project General Plan Land Use map, adopted 4-17-23 (bottom) versus map of the previously adopted General Plan Land Use. Source: City of Pittsburg
Read mailer, here: Save-the-Ridge-Pittsburg-2024 mailer
It’s part of the organization’s campaign, including an online petition, to keep the homes from being built along the ridgeline. The effort has also included a successful lawsuit filed by SMD in May 2021. On February 10, 2022, a Contra Costa County Superior Court judge sided with SMD. Discovery Builders then appealed the decision but lost again when the court ruled in favor of SMD on April 4, 2022 rejecting all of the developer’s arguments. (See related articles here, here and here)
SMD refers to the Faria project as a Seeno development because Discovery Builders is owned and operated by Albert Seeno, III.
On the organization’s website, SMD wrote, “We stopped Faria for two years, but now it’s back” and asks the public to “Save the Ridge!” The organization says, “We’re not opposed to all development; we just think the Pittsburg City Council and the developer should move it off the ridgetop.” SMD claims the project “would also betray the voters who approved Measure P in 2005 and placed the entire site in the protective hillside zoning. Now Seeno wants to change the zoning to bulldoze the steep hills for massive subdivisions. Because the site is almost entirely over 30 percent slope, with substantial parts at 50 to 70 percent slope, Seeno’s proposed new zoning will allow up to 25 times as many houses as the current Measure P zoning that the voters approved.”
Save Mount Diablo’s Save the Ridge 2024 mailer to Pittsburg residents, side 1. Source: SMD
However, according to the City staff report for the agenda item 13 for the April 2023 meeting, “the current General Plan allows for up to 478 acres of residential use and 129 acres of open space.” It also reads, “The proposed amendments would not change the existing maximum development potential (1,500 single family units), but rather would focus the development to the center of the site within the valley area.”
The effort’s webpage further reads, “Thee Pittsburg City Council should SAVE THE RIDGE for everyone and ensure public access to the new regional park for Pittsburg residents.
Save the ridge to keep our area a beautiful and desirable place to live, work, and visit!
Join us and sign our Save Pittsburg Hills/Save Mount Diablo petition urging the Pittsburg City Council to SAVE THE RIDGE and require the Seeno/Discovery Builders Faria development to be relocated off the top of Pittsburg’s ridge.”
Save Mount Diablo’s Save the Ridge 2024 mailer to Pittsburg residents, side 2. Source: SMD
SMD Asked If Attempting to Impact the Election
Questions were sent to SMD’s Executive Director Ted Clement asking when the effort began and why the mailer was sent during election season. He was further asked if it was timed to impact the election of Killings and Scales-Preston in their campaigns for county supervisor.
Clement responded, “We’ve been working to protect the Los Medanos ridge between Concord and Pittsburg for years. That effort is ongoing. We’re working to educate as many people as possible. We don’t have a position on the county supervisor campaigns.”
He was again asked if the mailer was sent to all homes in Pittsburg and if not, how many were mailed. But he did not respond.
Efforts to reach Killings and Preston-Scales asking if they had any comments about the mailer and their votes for the project were unsuccessful, as were efforts to reach Albert Seeno, III or anyone at Discovery Builders for comment.
Please check back later for any updates to this report.
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Santiago Jacobo was a facility maintenance employee for the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District. Photo source: GoFundMe.
“Santiago (Jacobo) was an all-around good guy and everyone on our team enjoyed working with him” – co-worker
By Jennifer Thoits, Marketing, Communications & Events Manager, City of Pleasant Hill
The Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District (PHRPD) mourns the tragic homicide of Santiago Jacobo, 37, a PHRPD employee who was found deceased on Saturday morning at approximately 4:50 a.m., February 10, 2024, in the main parking lot of Pleasant Hill Park. The park was closed temporarily while police conducted their initial investigation and cleared the area and surrounding buildings. Pleasant Hill Park re-opened Saturday at midday. (See related article)
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by Santiago Jacobo’s death,” said PHRPD General Manager, Michelle Lacy. “PHRPD has been in existence for over 70 years and nothing like this has ever happened before. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, two children and extended family.”
Jacobo began working for PHRPD in October 2019 and was a dedicated member of PHRPD’s facilities maintenance custodial crew who cleaned and kept the buildings in top shape for the community. Santiago worked weekend and evening shifts as a secondary job to support his family.
“Santiago was an all-around good guy and everyone on our team enjoyed working with him,” said PHRPD Lead Custodian and co-worker, Jose Martinez. “He was dependable, a hard worker and had a great “can-do” attitude. He will be missed.”
Michelle Lacy, General Manager made the announcement to staff early Monday morning and provided therapy and mental health resources for all employees to help cope with sudden loss and traumatic events. Lacy will also meet with staff to identify additional safety protocols that may be necessary to mitigate future risk.
“Our number one priority is the health, safety and well-being of our staff and the public”, said Michelle Lacy. PHRPD is working closely with the Pleasant Hill Police Department on this active homicide investigation. The suspect in this case is currently unknown. If anyone has any information related to this case, please contact the Pleasant Hill Police Department at (925) 288-4630.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Jacobo’s sister-in-law to support his wife, Mikaela and their two children.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Source: MTC
Every four years, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) must certify that each metropolitan planning organization (MPO) serving a transportation management area (TMA) — a designation by DOT of an urbanized area with a population over 200,000 as defined by the Bureau of the Census or smaller urbanized areas on request by the Governor and MPO — is carrying out the metropolitan planning process in adherence with federal statutes and regulations. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) conduct a review of the metropolitan planning process within each TMA and jointly issue this certification on behalf of the DOT Secretary, in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 5303(k).
The FHWA and the FTA are hosting a public meeting as part of MTC’s certification review. This public meeting is an opportunity for Bay Area residents to directly address FHWA and FTA officials concerning your views on the transportation planning process in the San Francisco–Oakland metropolitan area. Participants can attend in person or via Zoom or submit written comments.
The meeting is scheduled for:
Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 4:30–5:30 p.m.Bay Area Metro Center, Yerba Buena Conference Room, First Floor375 Beale Street, San Francisco, CA 94105Participate on ZoomWebinar ID: 863 1915 0671iPhone One-Tap:
+13462487799,,86319150671# US (Houston)+12532158782,,86319150671# US (Tacoma)
Join by Telephone (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)833 548 0282 US Toll Free877 853 5247 US Toll Free
Detailed instructions on participating via Zoom are available at:mtc.ca.gov/how-provide-public-comment-board-meeting-zoomMembers of the public participating by Zoom wishing to speak should use the “raise hand” feature or dial *9. When called upon, unmute yourself or dial *6. In order to get the full Zoom experience, please make sure your application is up to date.
This public meeting is part of a review that will assess compliance with federal regulations pertaining to the transportation planning process conducted by MTC, the California Department of Transportation, transit operators and local jurisdictions in the San Francisco–Oakland metropolitan area.
If you are unable to attend the meeting, written comments may be submitted via email to Cert.Review@dot.gov.Written comments also can be mailed to:
Federal Highway Administration, California Division650 Capitol Mall, Suite 4-100Sacramento, CA 95814-4708OrFederal Transit Administration, Region IX90 Seventh Street, Suite 15-300San Francisco, CA 94103-6701
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¿Necesita que alguno de nuestros documentos sea traducido? ¿Necesita nuestras comunicaciones escritas en letra grande o en Braille? ¿Necesita un intérprete del lenguaje de señas o un intérprete que hable su idiomapara poder participar?¡Nosotros podemos ayudar! Comuníquese al (415) 778-6757. Necesitamos aviso con tres días de anticipación para proporcionar asistencia razonable. Para personas con discapacidad auditiva o TDD, llame al 711, California Relay Service, o al (800) 735-2929 (TTY) o al (800) 735-2922 (voz) y pida que lo comuniquen al (415) 778-6700.Do you need one of our documents translated? Do you need written materials in large type or in Braille? Do you need a sign language interpreter or an interpreter who speaks your language in order to participate?We can help! Please call us at (415) 778-6757. We require three days’ notice in order to provide reasonableaccommodation. For TDD or hearing impaired, call 711, California Relay Service, or (800) 735-2929 (TTY) or (800) 735-2922 (voice) and ask to be relayed to (415) 778-6700.
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Competition founder Maya Hammerman with second place winner Ronen Jain, third place winner Archit Kundu and first place winner Fatimah Hussain holding their ceremonial checks, as the other finalists look on following the Finalist Pitch Event on Tues., Feb. 6, 2024. Source: Contra Costa Shark Tank
Three winners receive $1,750 in prizes at Finalist Pitch Event
By Maya Hammerman, Founder, Contra Costa Shark Tank Youth Competition
Three winners were declared in the first Contra Costa Shark Tank Youth Competition. The competition, open to all Contra Costa County students in grades Kindergarten through 12th grade, is a fun way to promote youth entrepreneurship.
“The Finalist Pitch Event was a wonderful culmination of over a year of planning to bring the competition to life,” explains high school junior Maya Hammerman, the competition founder and one of the judges. “The ten finalists did an incredible job presenting their businesses to the judges and community members at the sold-out event. They have inspired many young people in our county to explore entrepreneurship.”
First Place
The first-place prize of $1,000 was awarded to Fatimah Hussain, a senior at Dougherty Valley High School, for her business Workout Wizard. “From the moment I got the finalist letter to the day I presented on the Contra Costa Shark Tank’s stage, the entrepreneurship journey has been extremely rewarding,” said Hussain. “To win the first-place prize is a dream come true, and I hope to continue inspiring fellow youth entrepreneurs to follow their passions and never give up. The best time to build a business is now, so what are you waiting for?”
Second Place
The second-place prize of $500 was awarded to Ronen Jain, a sophomore at Monte Vista High School, for his business ElderSafe. “I’m beyond thrilled to be one of the winners of this competition after the countless hours I’ve spent perfecting my app,” said Jain. “It was super exciting to get direct feedback from the judges and attendees about my business and how they would use it.”
Third Place
The third-place prize of $250 was awarded to Archit Kundu, a 5th grade student at Bella Vista Elementary School, for his business Experimental Kids. “Contra Costa Shark Tank is a great opportunity and winning third place gives me the confidence to take this business to the next level and make STEM learning fun for all the kids (5- 12 years old),” said Kundu. “Also, it was a learning experience to present my views in front of such great judges and such a large audience.”
Learn more about all the finalists, here and here.
See video of the Finalist Pitch Event. For more video and photos from the event visit www.contracostasharktank.org.
Follow on Instagram to stay updated on future competitions.
Sponsors for the competition include Chevron, Visa, PG&E, Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, Girls Crushing It, and Campolindo Parents Club.
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By CHP – Contra Costa
2/12/24 UPDATE: The Contra Costa Coroner’s office identified the two as Andres Hernandez, 22, and Christopher Cannedy, 35, both of Oakley.
Saturday morning, Feb. 10, 2024, at approximately 4:30am, CHP Contra Costa responded to a two-vehicle crash on eastbound Hwy 4, between Laurel Road and Lone Tree Way. Our preliminary investigation indicates a blue Scion TC, with one occupant, was traveling westbound (wrong way) in the eastbound lanes. At this time, a black Mazda 3, with one occupant, was traveling eastbound at the same location and the vehicles collided head on. Both drivers sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene.
This crash is still under investigation, it is unknown if drugs or alcohol were a cause at this time. If anyone witnessed it or the events leading up to it, please contact CHP Contra Costa in Martinez, (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to mailto:320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.
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37-year-old Pittsburg man stabbed, discovered by his wife
By Captain Matt Kristic, Pleasant Hill Police Department
On Saturday, February 10, 2024, at approximately 4:50 a.m., Pleasant Hill Police dispatch received a report of an unconscious and unresponsive male found lying on the ground in the main parking lot of Pleasant Hill Park, 147 Gregory Lane. Officers and medical personnel responded to the scene and determined the man was deceased. Upon further examination, it was determined the man had sustained stab wounds.
The victim has been identified as 37-year-old Santiago Jacobo of Pittsburg. Jacobo was a member of the janitorial staff that had been working at the park late last night. Jacobo was discovered by his wife, who became concerned when he did not return home after his shift ended. She went to Pleasant Hill Park, where she found him unresponsive and called 9-1-1.
Pleasant Hill Police detectives are actively investigating this case. The suspect in this case is unknown at this time. Any person with information related to this crime is encouraged to contact the Pleasant Hill Police Investigations Bureau at (925) 288-4630.
Members of Jacobo’s family have been notified and are working with police investigators.
The Pleasant Hill Police Department, the City of Pleasant Hill, and the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District express our deep condolences to the family and friends of the victim.
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A group of WCCUSD school psychologists at a union contract rally in 2023. Courtesy of John Zabala. Source: EdSource.org
By Cara Nixon, EdSource.org – Republished with permission
West Contra Costa Unified School District’s school psychologist internship program once flourished. The district recruited from substantial applicant pools from local universities and provided a strong start for beginning school psychologists entering the workforce, often retaining them after the internships ended.
Now, however, in the years since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, WCCUSD is struggling to recruit interns and fill vacant school psychologist positions. This means psychologists, considered essential pieces of school environments, are carrying larger case loads and working longer hours, leading to burnout.
WCCUSD, like other districts across the state, is no stranger to staff shortages — the district started the 2023-24 academic year with more than 200 special education paraprofessional vacancies. The shortages have persisted, and on Jan. 31, Public Advocates, a nonprofit civil rights law firm, filed three complaints with the district, alleging some schools failed to provide students with qualified teachers because of problems related to staffing shortages.
School psychologists fill a critical role in school communities, collaborating with administration, teachers and parents to ensure students are succeeding academically, emotionally and behaviorally.
West Contra Costa has struggled with five to seven school psychologist vacancies for the past couple of years. Halfway through the current school year, the district is still dealing with three.
“We’re going to weather, this obviously, but we still have a couple of years in which we are going to have a really significant shortage, and we’re going to have a really significant increase in the demand for services, so we’re kind of in for a little bit of a scary period,” said John Zabala, a school psychologist in the district and the president of United Teachers of Richmond.
California is generally facing a critical shortage of school psychologists. According to the California Association of School Psychologists, the National Association of School Psychologists recommends a ratio of 1 school psychologist for 500 to 750 students. However, California schools on average have 1 per 1,000 students. Some schools have 1 per 3,000 students.
Although WCCUSD’s ratio falls into the recommended range at around 1 school psychologist per 500-550 students, school psychologists in the district still face large caseloads and longer work days, contributing to burnout.
Some districts compensate for shortages by hiring contractors or traveling school psychologists. Emily Springhart, department co-chair of psychology at West Contra Costa, however, said the district has preferred increasing the caseload of school psychologists and extending their work days to deal with the shortage.
“A lot of the report writing and the case management — those things just go home with people,” Springhart said. “I’m sure it’s not great for their own personal health.”
Schools have seen a substantial increase in the number of students requiring mental health and behavioral resources in recent years. In April 2022, 69% of public schools reported that the percentage of students seeking mental health services had increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Covid-19 disrupted early intervention for many students, leading to an increase in the number of students needing support, while the staff who would be able to support them, like school psychologists, have not.
Mary Campbell, a WCCUSD school psychologist and former department chair, said she worries about what the shortages and the resulting burnout could mean for the longevity of the profession.
Springhart said the school psychologist shortage seems to be caused by the same factors triggering shortages of other school staff: inevitable events like retirement, but also financial hardship, forcing people to move out of parts of California with high costs of living.
But another cause lies in the declining number of incoming applicants from universities that typically feed into districts like WCCUSD. Springhart said the number has steadily declined, despite the district having a long and strong history of hiring school psychologists from those programs.
“It seems like all of the districts are kind of fighting over everybody right now, just because there’s not enough people coming out of programs,” Springhart said.
Oanh Tran, school psychology program coordinator for California State University, East Bay, said she’s actually seen an increase of applicants to the program in recent years. But because the Bay Area is home to so many school districts, there aren’t enough school psychologists to go around.
“We have so many districts, so many schools, and just a handful of students are graduating with their PPS (Pupil Personnel Services) credential to service those schools and districts,” Tran said.
Tran said new school psychologists are also experiencing burnout earlier in their careers. Not only are they dealing with more assessment caseloads, but they’re also spending their days putting out fires likely caused by a lack of early intervention.
The best districts, Tran said, prioritize monitoring the needs of their school psychologists, ensuring they have access to helpful mentors, have a manageable caseload, and feel supported by their team. Students are being strategic about finding districts that provide these resources, Tran explained.
“In West Contra Costa, I do remember there was a time where they did have a lot of our practicum and interns,” Tran said. “But now, I think because there are so many districts that are recruiting our students, it’s competitive. It’s so competitive. We only have so many students in our cohort, but we have over 50 districts now participating in our recruitment fair for our students.”
Although West Contra Costa offers competitive pay, especially after salary increases last year, Springhart agreed the shortage has been a regional issue, extending beyond the district. She said more education and recruitment about the profession may be necessary to increase the number of applicants to school psychologist programs.
“I think there are ways that we know that we can attract and keep people in these jobs, which can be very rewarding jobs,” Campbell said, “but not when we’re so under-resourced.”
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Source: CA State Parks
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) has developed a five-year strategic plan to help shape the future direction of the state park system and the many recreational and conservation programs that serve California’s communities.
Named Path Forward, the strategic plan aligns with Governor Gavin Newsom’s Equity Executive Order N-16-22, 30X30 and Outdoor Access for All initiatives and will guide State Parks in strengthening operations to focus on key priorities and directing energy and resources toward meeting the goals and objectives. The themes, goals, and objectives in the plan are based on the foundational elements of access, inclusivity, and equity to provide optimal public service, strengthen partnership development, and empower the department’s workforce.
“The Path Forward strategic plan is about resilience and focusing on how we prepare the department for the century ahead,” stated State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “California needs these natural and cultural resources for everyone’s wellbeing. State Parks leadership, employees, and partners are committed to caring for your California. This is where you live.”
An employee workgroup composed of more than 100 frontline staff, managers, and supervisors representing all field regions, headquarters, and all program areas, was assembled to develop the Path Forward Plan. The vision, themes, goals, objectives, and core values were created and refined over several virtual meetings and reviewed by a partner and stakeholder advisory committee, employees, commissions, and executive staff along the way.
The input and perspective of stakeholders and partners helped to inform the final version of the plan and to ensure that the future of State Parks reflects the diverse experiences and priorities represented in the State of California.
Two factors set Path Forward apart from previous change efforts. Department staff from all levels developed the plan with input from partners, rather than an executive team taking a top-down approach. The second factor will begin in winter 2024 and involves an actionable implementation plan led by a committee made up of key leaders representing all program areas. The implementation plan includes interdisciplinary teams to carry out and manage projects tied to the goals and objectives of the plan. These teams will use a designated project management tool to develop specific plans, timelines, and evaluation metrics to achieve each goal. The teams will provide regular progress and status updates.
By using this strategic plan as a guide, a course of action has been developed to support State Parks in meeting challenges. The plan will also create new strategies for institutional growth and optimization.
With 280 park units, California’s State Park System is a world-class network of incomparable lands, waters, and features vitally important to the well-being of the state’s environment, economy, and people. State Parks manages these precious natural and cultural resources while providing hundreds of recreational and conservation programs and services for millions of Californians and visitors from all over the world.
The Path Forward Plan is available in English and is translatable to several other languages at parks.ca.gov/PathForward.
Read MoreSnugArooz Bix Fix Friends dog and cat toys for the Pet Food Express campaign. Source: Pet Food Express
Sale of exclusive toys from SnugArooz benefits nonprofit clinics throughout California including Animal Rescue Foundation in Contra Costa County to impact animal overpopulation
Pet Food Express, a trusted California pet retailer and advocate for animal welfare, is excited to launch The Big Fix at https://www.petfood.express/bigfix. The new campaign is aimed at impacting animal overpopulation and the overcrowding of animal rescue organizations, as well as bringing awareness to the need for essential spay and neuter services for California’s pets. Available for purchase now online and in stores, customers can get exclusive, limited-edition toys from SnugArooz, known as Big Fix Friends (BFFs), where 50% of the retail price will go directly to 10 nonprofit, public-facing, low-cost, or sliding-scale spay and neuter clinic programs.
“Every year, too many animals suffer due to overpopulation, leading to strained resources and, in some cases, homelessness. The Big Fix is our response to this pressing issue,” Denyelle Bruno, CEO of Pet Food Express stated. “We’re committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of pets and their families.”
The Big Fix nonprofit partners include, Animal Rescue Foundation, Berkeley Humane, Napa Humane, Peninsula Humane Society, Pasadena Humane, Sacramento SPCA, San Francisco SPCA, Silicon Valley Animal Control Authority, Spay Neuter Imperative Project and Valley Humane Society.
“Spay and neuter is the most effective way to fight pet overpopulation and decrease the number of unaltered, homeless, and unwanted pets,” said Lisa Van Buskirk, Senior Vice President at Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA, During the last 70 years, we have seen that altering animals has been instrumental in decreasing the number of incoming animals, thereby reducing our euthanasia rate by 99% in San Mateo County.”
The limited-edition Big Fix Friends dog and cat toys retail for $9.99 and $5.99, respectively. For dogs, Fang Cuddlearms features a squeaky body and long, stretchy arms. For cats, Spike Hugface entertains with a catnip and crinkle middle. The Big Fix will continue until all toys are sold out or until the end of the calendar year 2024, whichever comes first.
Spaying and neutering play a crucial role in combating pet overpopulation, reducing the number of homeless and unwanted animals, as well as producing positive effects on pet behavior, health, and longevity.
For more information on Pet Food Express’ Community Programs or to find out how to become an adoption partner, please visit www.petfood.express.
ABOUT PET FOOD EXPRESS
Pet Food Express is California’s trusted pet expert dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier lives. With a reimagined experience delivered by animal-loving team members, Pet Food Express sells a variety of high quality products that they trust to give their own pets, puts pets above profits, and leads the way as a committed partner to 275+ non-profit animal rescue and shelter organizations annually. Shop and learn more at www.petfood.express. Get social on Facebook and Instagram.
Read MoreTwo stolen cars and items recovered, and fake gun discovered in one of the vehicles by San Pablo Police. Photos: SPPD
By San Pablo Police Department
Teamwork Makes The Dream Work
It was another busy week for officers in San Pablo, as they remained proactive protecting the city. This tremendous effort resulted in 24 arrests and the recovery of six stolen cars! A few snippets for those of you who are curious…
The other day, officers found bad guy driving a stolen car through town. The driver was arrested, and he was found to have thousands of dollars, a cash drawer, gloves, a mask, a fake pistol, bolt cutters and gift cards to FBI Burger in Novato. We decided to call our friends at Novato Police to help put the puzzle pieces together, and sure enough, found out a couple of businesses in Marin County had been recently broken into!
Earlier last week, a few guys tried to steal beer from a local liquor store without paying. When the clerk tried to stop them, they threatened him with a knife and tried to stab him. Thanks to the quick response of our officers, all three men were located and arrested.
On Friday, Feb. 9, officers found another bad guy in a stolen car parked at Nations, which was just stolen from El Cerrito. The thief tried to run but he was quickly apprehended with the help of our four-legged friend, K-9 Riddik. The owner was reunited with her Prius.
To wrap it all up, on Saturday, officers stopped a car wanted by Dixon Police for organized retail theft. Lo and behold, a bunch of stolen loot was located, and the crooks were identified, one of which had a warrant. Needless to say, their getaway vehicle was towed.
This would not have been possible without the partnership and support of our community and fellow law enforcement friends!
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Mailer from Save Mount Diablo shows how the five Pittsburg councilmembers voted on the Faria housing development last year. Source: Save Mount Diablo
Two running for county supervisor on March 5th ballot; org leader says they have no position in race
By Allen D. Payton
A week before the ballots for the March 5th primary election began arriving in mailboxes, a mailer from Save Mount Diablo (SMD) was sent to all households in Pittsburg asking for public support of their effort to get the council members to reverse their vote last April for Discovery Builders’ hillside housing development. Known as the Faria project, the project includes 1,500 homes on 341 acres with 265 acres of open space on the south side of the city which borders the new Thurgood Marshall Regional Park in Concord.
The mailer reads, “On April 17, 2023, the Pittsburg City Council approved a Master Plan for the Faria/Southwest Hills Annexation Project.” It shows photos of and “aye” votes by then Mayor Shanelle Preston-Scales, Councilmember Jelani Killings, who are both running for county supervisor in the March 5th primary election, as well as Councilmembers Dionne Adams and Angelica Lopez. But the leader of SMD claims they have no position in the race for supervisor. The mailer also shows then-Vice Mayor Juan Antonio Banales who voted to abstain.
In addition, the mailer claims, the “plan…was opposed by thousands of residents, environmentalists and the city Planning Commission, which recommended against the plan.”
Faria project General Plan Land Use map, adopted 4-17-23 (bottom) versus map of the previously adopted General Plan Land Use. Source: City of Pittsburg
Read mailer, here: Save-the-Ridge-Pittsburg-2024 mailer
It’s part of the organization’s campaign, including an online petition, to keep the homes from being built along the ridgeline. The effort has also included a successful lawsuit filed by SMD in May 2021. On February 10, 2022, a Contra Costa County Superior Court judge sided with SMD. Discovery Builders then appealed the decision but lost again when the court ruled in favor of SMD on April 4, 2022 rejecting all of the developer’s arguments. (See related articles here, here and here)
SMD refers to the Faria project as a Seeno development because Discovery Builders is owned and operated by Albert Seeno, III.
On the organization’s website, SMD wrote, “We stopped Faria for two years, but now it’s back” and asks the public to “Save the Ridge!” The organization says, “We’re not opposed to all development; we just think the Pittsburg City Council and the developer should move it off the ridgetop.” SMD claims the project “would also betray the voters who approved Measure P in 2005 and placed the entire site in the protective hillside zoning. Now Seeno wants to change the zoning to bulldoze the steep hills for massive subdivisions. Because the site is almost entirely over 30 percent slope, with substantial parts at 50 to 70 percent slope, Seeno’s proposed new zoning will allow up to 25 times as many houses as the current Measure P zoning that the voters approved.”
Save Mount Diablo’s Save the Ridge 2024 mailer to Pittsburg residents, side 1. Source: SMD
However, according to the City staff report for the agenda item 13 for the April 2023 meeting, “the current General Plan allows for up to 478 acres of residential use and 129 acres of open space.” It also reads, “The proposed amendments would not change the existing maximum development potential (1,500 single family units), but rather would focus the development to the center of the site within the valley area.”
The effort’s webpage further reads, “Thee Pittsburg City Council should SAVE THE RIDGE for everyone and ensure public access to the new regional park for Pittsburg residents.
Save the ridge to keep our area a beautiful and desirable place to live, work, and visit!
Join us and sign our Save Pittsburg Hills/Save Mount Diablo petition urging the Pittsburg City Council to SAVE THE RIDGE and require the Seeno/Discovery Builders Faria development to be relocated off the top of Pittsburg’s ridge.”
Save Mount Diablo’s Save the Ridge 2024 mailer to Pittsburg residents, side 2. Source: SMD
SMD Asked If Attempting to Impact the Election
Questions were sent to SMD’s Executive Director Ted Clement asking when the effort began and why the mailer was sent during election season. He was further asked if it was timed to impact the election of Killings and Scales-Preston in their campaigns for county supervisor.
Clement responded, “We’ve been working to protect the Los Medanos ridge between Concord and Pittsburg for years. That effort is ongoing. We’re working to educate as many people as possible. We don’t have a position on the county supervisor campaigns.”
He was again asked if the mailer was sent to all homes in Pittsburg and if not, how many were mailed. But he did not respond.
Efforts to reach Killings and Preston-Scales asking if they had any comments about the mailer and their votes for the project were unsuccessful, as were efforts to reach Albert Seeno, III or anyone at Discovery Builders for comment.
Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Read MoreSantiago Jacobo was a facility maintenance employee for the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District. Photo source: GoFundMe.
“Santiago (Jacobo) was an all-around good guy and everyone on our team enjoyed working with him” – co-worker
By Jennifer Thoits, Marketing, Communications & Events Manager, City of Pleasant Hill
The Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District (PHRPD) mourns the tragic homicide of Santiago Jacobo, 37, a PHRPD employee who was found deceased on Saturday morning at approximately 4:50 a.m., February 10, 2024, in the main parking lot of Pleasant Hill Park. The park was closed temporarily while police conducted their initial investigation and cleared the area and surrounding buildings. Pleasant Hill Park re-opened Saturday at midday. (See related article)
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by Santiago Jacobo’s death,” said PHRPD General Manager, Michelle Lacy. “PHRPD has been in existence for over 70 years and nothing like this has ever happened before. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, two children and extended family.”
Jacobo began working for PHRPD in October 2019 and was a dedicated member of PHRPD’s facilities maintenance custodial crew who cleaned and kept the buildings in top shape for the community. Santiago worked weekend and evening shifts as a secondary job to support his family.
“Santiago was an all-around good guy and everyone on our team enjoyed working with him,” said PHRPD Lead Custodian and co-worker, Jose Martinez. “He was dependable, a hard worker and had a great “can-do” attitude. He will be missed.”
Michelle Lacy, General Manager made the announcement to staff early Monday morning and provided therapy and mental health resources for all employees to help cope with sudden loss and traumatic events. Lacy will also meet with staff to identify additional safety protocols that may be necessary to mitigate future risk.
“Our number one priority is the health, safety and well-being of our staff and the public”, said Michelle Lacy. PHRPD is working closely with the Pleasant Hill Police Department on this active homicide investigation. The suspect in this case is currently unknown. If anyone has any information related to this case, please contact the Pleasant Hill Police Department at (925) 288-4630.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Jacobo’s sister-in-law to support his wife, Mikaela and their two children.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreSource: MTC
Every four years, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) must certify that each metropolitan planning organization (MPO) serving a transportation management area (TMA) — a designation by DOT of an urbanized area with a population over 200,000 as defined by the Bureau of the Census or smaller urbanized areas on request by the Governor and MPO — is carrying out the metropolitan planning process in adherence with federal statutes and regulations. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) conduct a review of the metropolitan planning process within each TMA and jointly issue this certification on behalf of the DOT Secretary, in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 5303(k).
The FHWA and the FTA are hosting a public meeting as part of MTC’s certification review. This public meeting is an opportunity for Bay Area residents to directly address FHWA and FTA officials concerning your views on the transportation planning process in the San Francisco–Oakland metropolitan area. Participants can attend in person or via Zoom or submit written comments.
The meeting is scheduled for:
Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 4:30–5:30 p.m.Bay Area Metro Center, Yerba Buena Conference Room, First Floor375 Beale Street, San Francisco, CA 94105Participate on ZoomWebinar ID: 863 1915 0671iPhone One-Tap:
+13462487799,,86319150671# US (Houston)+12532158782,,86319150671# US (Tacoma)
Join by Telephone (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)833 548 0282 US Toll Free877 853 5247 US Toll Free
Detailed instructions on participating via Zoom are available at:mtc.ca.gov/how-provide-public-comment-board-meeting-zoomMembers of the public participating by Zoom wishing to speak should use the “raise hand” feature or dial *9. When called upon, unmute yourself or dial *6. In order to get the full Zoom experience, please make sure your application is up to date.
This public meeting is part of a review that will assess compliance with federal regulations pertaining to the transportation planning process conducted by MTC, the California Department of Transportation, transit operators and local jurisdictions in the San Francisco–Oakland metropolitan area.
If you are unable to attend the meeting, written comments may be submitted via email to Cert.Review@dot.gov.Written comments also can be mailed to:
Federal Highway Administration, California Division650 Capitol Mall, Suite 4-100Sacramento, CA 95814-4708OrFederal Transit Administration, Region IX90 Seventh Street, Suite 15-300San Francisco, CA 94103-6701
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¿Necesita que alguno de nuestros documentos sea traducido? ¿Necesita nuestras comunicaciones escritas en letra grande o en Braille? ¿Necesita un intérprete del lenguaje de señas o un intérprete que hable su idiomapara poder participar?¡Nosotros podemos ayudar! Comuníquese al (415) 778-6757. Necesitamos aviso con tres días de anticipación para proporcionar asistencia razonable. Para personas con discapacidad auditiva o TDD, llame al 711, California Relay Service, o al (800) 735-2929 (TTY) o al (800) 735-2922 (voz) y pida que lo comuniquen al (415) 778-6700.Do you need one of our documents translated? Do you need written materials in large type or in Braille? Do you need a sign language interpreter or an interpreter who speaks your language in order to participate?We can help! Please call us at (415) 778-6757. We require three days’ notice in order to provide reasonableaccommodation. For TDD or hearing impaired, call 711, California Relay Service, or (800) 735-2929 (TTY) or (800) 735-2922 (voice) and ask to be relayed to (415) 778-6700.
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Competition founder Maya Hammerman with second place winner Ronen Jain, third place winner Archit Kundu and first place winner Fatimah Hussain holding their ceremonial checks, as the other finalists look on following the Finalist Pitch Event on Tues., Feb. 6, 2024. Source: Contra Costa Shark Tank
Three winners receive $1,750 in prizes at Finalist Pitch Event
By Maya Hammerman, Founder, Contra Costa Shark Tank Youth Competition
Three winners were declared in the first Contra Costa Shark Tank Youth Competition. The competition, open to all Contra Costa County students in grades Kindergarten through 12th grade, is a fun way to promote youth entrepreneurship.
“The Finalist Pitch Event was a wonderful culmination of over a year of planning to bring the competition to life,” explains high school junior Maya Hammerman, the competition founder and one of the judges. “The ten finalists did an incredible job presenting their businesses to the judges and community members at the sold-out event. They have inspired many young people in our county to explore entrepreneurship.”
First Place
The first-place prize of $1,000 was awarded to Fatimah Hussain, a senior at Dougherty Valley High School, for her business Workout Wizard. “From the moment I got the finalist letter to the day I presented on the Contra Costa Shark Tank’s stage, the entrepreneurship journey has been extremely rewarding,” said Hussain. “To win the first-place prize is a dream come true, and I hope to continue inspiring fellow youth entrepreneurs to follow their passions and never give up. The best time to build a business is now, so what are you waiting for?”
Second Place
The second-place prize of $500 was awarded to Ronen Jain, a sophomore at Monte Vista High School, for his business ElderSafe. “I’m beyond thrilled to be one of the winners of this competition after the countless hours I’ve spent perfecting my app,” said Jain. “It was super exciting to get direct feedback from the judges and attendees about my business and how they would use it.”
Third Place
The third-place prize of $250 was awarded to Archit Kundu, a 5th grade student at Bella Vista Elementary School, for his business Experimental Kids. “Contra Costa Shark Tank is a great opportunity and winning third place gives me the confidence to take this business to the next level and make STEM learning fun for all the kids (5- 12 years old),” said Kundu. “Also, it was a learning experience to present my views in front of such great judges and such a large audience.”
Learn more about all the finalists, here and here.
See video of the Finalist Pitch Event. For more video and photos from the event visit www.contracostasharktank.org.
Follow on Instagram to stay updated on future competitions.
Sponsors for the competition include Chevron, Visa, PG&E, Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, Girls Crushing It, and Campolindo Parents Club.
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By CHP – Contra Costa
2/12/24 UPDATE: The Contra Costa Coroner’s office identified the two as Andres Hernandez, 22, and Christopher Cannedy, 35, both of Oakley.
Saturday morning, Feb. 10, 2024, at approximately 4:30am, CHP Contra Costa responded to a two-vehicle crash on eastbound Hwy 4, between Laurel Road and Lone Tree Way. Our preliminary investigation indicates a blue Scion TC, with one occupant, was traveling westbound (wrong way) in the eastbound lanes. At this time, a black Mazda 3, with one occupant, was traveling eastbound at the same location and the vehicles collided head on. Both drivers sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene.
This crash is still under investigation, it is unknown if drugs or alcohol were a cause at this time. If anyone witnessed it or the events leading up to it, please contact CHP Contra Costa in Martinez, (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to mailto:320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.
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37-year-old Pittsburg man stabbed, discovered by his wife
By Captain Matt Kristic, Pleasant Hill Police Department
On Saturday, February 10, 2024, at approximately 4:50 a.m., Pleasant Hill Police dispatch received a report of an unconscious and unresponsive male found lying on the ground in the main parking lot of Pleasant Hill Park, 147 Gregory Lane. Officers and medical personnel responded to the scene and determined the man was deceased. Upon further examination, it was determined the man had sustained stab wounds.
The victim has been identified as 37-year-old Santiago Jacobo of Pittsburg. Jacobo was a member of the janitorial staff that had been working at the park late last night. Jacobo was discovered by his wife, who became concerned when he did not return home after his shift ended. She went to Pleasant Hill Park, where she found him unresponsive and called 9-1-1.
Pleasant Hill Police detectives are actively investigating this case. The suspect in this case is unknown at this time. Any person with information related to this crime is encouraged to contact the Pleasant Hill Police Investigations Bureau at (925) 288-4630.
Members of Jacobo’s family have been notified and are working with police investigators.
The Pleasant Hill Police Department, the City of Pleasant Hill, and the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District express our deep condolences to the family and friends of the victim.
Read MoreA group of WCCUSD school psychologists at a union contract rally in 2023. Courtesy of John Zabala. Source: EdSource.org
By Cara Nixon, EdSource.org – Republished with permission
West Contra Costa Unified School District’s school psychologist internship program once flourished. The district recruited from substantial applicant pools from local universities and provided a strong start for beginning school psychologists entering the workforce, often retaining them after the internships ended.
Now, however, in the years since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, WCCUSD is struggling to recruit interns and fill vacant school psychologist positions. This means psychologists, considered essential pieces of school environments, are carrying larger case loads and working longer hours, leading to burnout.
WCCUSD, like other districts across the state, is no stranger to staff shortages — the district started the 2023-24 academic year with more than 200 special education paraprofessional vacancies. The shortages have persisted, and on Jan. 31, Public Advocates, a nonprofit civil rights law firm, filed three complaints with the district, alleging some schools failed to provide students with qualified teachers because of problems related to staffing shortages.
School psychologists fill a critical role in school communities, collaborating with administration, teachers and parents to ensure students are succeeding academically, emotionally and behaviorally.
West Contra Costa has struggled with five to seven school psychologist vacancies for the past couple of years. Halfway through the current school year, the district is still dealing with three.
“We’re going to weather, this obviously, but we still have a couple of years in which we are going to have a really significant shortage, and we’re going to have a really significant increase in the demand for services, so we’re kind of in for a little bit of a scary period,” said John Zabala, a school psychologist in the district and the president of United Teachers of Richmond.
California is generally facing a critical shortage of school psychologists. According to the California Association of School Psychologists, the National Association of School Psychologists recommends a ratio of 1 school psychologist for 500 to 750 students. However, California schools on average have 1 per 1,000 students. Some schools have 1 per 3,000 students.
Although WCCUSD’s ratio falls into the recommended range at around 1 school psychologist per 500-550 students, school psychologists in the district still face large caseloads and longer work days, contributing to burnout.
Some districts compensate for shortages by hiring contractors or traveling school psychologists. Emily Springhart, department co-chair of psychology at West Contra Costa, however, said the district has preferred increasing the caseload of school psychologists and extending their work days to deal with the shortage.
“A lot of the report writing and the case management — those things just go home with people,” Springhart said. “I’m sure it’s not great for their own personal health.”
Schools have seen a substantial increase in the number of students requiring mental health and behavioral resources in recent years. In April 2022, 69% of public schools reported that the percentage of students seeking mental health services had increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Covid-19 disrupted early intervention for many students, leading to an increase in the number of students needing support, while the staff who would be able to support them, like school psychologists, have not.
Mary Campbell, a WCCUSD school psychologist and former department chair, said she worries about what the shortages and the resulting burnout could mean for the longevity of the profession.
Springhart said the school psychologist shortage seems to be caused by the same factors triggering shortages of other school staff: inevitable events like retirement, but also financial hardship, forcing people to move out of parts of California with high costs of living.
But another cause lies in the declining number of incoming applicants from universities that typically feed into districts like WCCUSD. Springhart said the number has steadily declined, despite the district having a long and strong history of hiring school psychologists from those programs.
“It seems like all of the districts are kind of fighting over everybody right now, just because there’s not enough people coming out of programs,” Springhart said.
Oanh Tran, school psychology program coordinator for California State University, East Bay, said she’s actually seen an increase of applicants to the program in recent years. But because the Bay Area is home to so many school districts, there aren’t enough school psychologists to go around.
“We have so many districts, so many schools, and just a handful of students are graduating with their PPS (Pupil Personnel Services) credential to service those schools and districts,” Tran said.
Tran said new school psychologists are also experiencing burnout earlier in their careers. Not only are they dealing with more assessment caseloads, but they’re also spending their days putting out fires likely caused by a lack of early intervention.
The best districts, Tran said, prioritize monitoring the needs of their school psychologists, ensuring they have access to helpful mentors, have a manageable caseload, and feel supported by their team. Students are being strategic about finding districts that provide these resources, Tran explained.
“In West Contra Costa, I do remember there was a time where they did have a lot of our practicum and interns,” Tran said. “But now, I think because there are so many districts that are recruiting our students, it’s competitive. It’s so competitive. We only have so many students in our cohort, but we have over 50 districts now participating in our recruitment fair for our students.”
Although West Contra Costa offers competitive pay, especially after salary increases last year, Springhart agreed the shortage has been a regional issue, extending beyond the district. She said more education and recruitment about the profession may be necessary to increase the number of applicants to school psychologist programs.
“I think there are ways that we know that we can attract and keep people in these jobs, which can be very rewarding jobs,” Campbell said, “but not when we’re so under-resourced.”
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