FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Corrie Pelc
Email: corrie@ssda.org
Phone: 916-662-7213
Santa Rosa Legislator Wins State-Wide Annual Award
Assemblymember Jim Wood named 2021 Legislator of the Year
SACRAMENTO, CA, March 2021 – The California Small School Districts' Association (SSDA) is proud to announce that Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Santa Rosa) recently received the 2021 Legislator of the Year Award, during SSDA’s Virtual 2021 Annual Conference earlier this month. This award is given to a member of the legislature who understands and advocates for the unique and often difficult circumstances small and rural districts are faced with.
Assemblymember Wood was recognized for his recent advocacy in school reopening negotiations for small and rural school districts across California. In addition, Assemblymember Wood has authored legislation to expand health care access in rural areas, to protect areas against wildfires, and to help rebuild communities after disasters strike.
"Assemblymember Wood has consistently been a champion for small and small rural schools," said Terri Rufert, SSDA Legislative Committee Chair and superintendent of Sundale UESD in Tulare County. "He has been extremely receptive when he is called by a Superintendent and by our SSDA executive director. It is obvious that he cares about the students, staff and families in his district and throughout California. Thank you for your dedication, determination and diligence."
"It is an honor to be recognized by the Small School Districts’ Association as your legislator of the year,” said Assemblymember Jim Wood. “With 80 school districts in the five counties I represent – keeping in mind some legislators have only one district or part of one – I understand how important a one-size-fits-all solution is not the way to approach the unique challenges of smaller school districts. You are fortunate to have SSDA advocating on your behalf!”
Elected in 2014, Assemblymember Wood serves the California’s 2nd Assembly District, which comprises all of Del Norte, Trinity, Humboldt, and Mendocino counties, plus northern and coastal Sonoma County, including the northern half of Santa Rosa.
“Jim is a fearless, student and teacher focused leader and understands our unique needs,” said Tim Taylor, SSDA Executive Director. “Small districts need a champion in Sacramento who is relentless and is willing to speak up for districts who are in dire need of equitable resources. He is invaluable to our 538 school districts in California.”
About Small School Districts’ Association (SSDA)
The California Small School Districts’ Association (SSDA) is California’s leading organization in terms of addressing, supporting, and lobbying on issues specific to the unique needs of small school districts. The mission of the Small School Districts’ Association is to provide relevant information and proactive assistance to small school district governing boards and superintendents through legislative advocacy, collaboration, professional development, and support services. To learn more, visit https://www.ssda.org.