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Vanessa Donahue,
Board Member

I have been in education for sixteen years, all in the Santa Paula Unified School District. I began my teaching career as an ELD intervention teacher for newcomers. I spent most of my teaching career at Barbara Webster Elementary School, teaching third grade and special education as a resource specialist. My administrative career began by serving as Assistant Principal at Glen City Elementary School for two years. This school year will be my fifth year as Principal of Blanchard School.

I earned a bachelor's degree in liberal studies and her multiple subject teaching credential from California State University Northridge. I also have a master's degree in Curriculum & Instruction and an education specialist credential from California Lutheran University. In addition, I have a master's degree in Educational Leadership and an administrative credential from Azusa Pacific University. Currently, I am working on a Ph.D. in Education Law from Liberty University.

I am a first-generation Mexican American whose first language was Spanish. Growing up, I always knew she wanted to teach students who shared a similar background and encourage students to work towards their dreams. While I did not grow up in Santa Paula, I feel connected to this school district and the community. I am passionate about English Language Development, Special Education, and making meaningful connections with her students.

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