FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 29, 2024
Contact: Shannon Carr
Communications Coordinator
scarr@metroed.net
(408) 723-4229
San Jose, CA: The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 8 honored Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian as a winner in the Partners in Educational Excellence Award category during the Region 8 ACSA Awards Dinner on April 26 at Villa Ragusa in Campbell (photo above from left to right, Metropolitan Education District Superintendent Alyssa Lynch, Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian, County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mary Ann Dewan, and Metropolitan Education District Governing Board President Katherine Tseng). It was also recently announced that Simitian was chosen for the ACSA Statewide Award, with the recognition being held on November 15 in San Diego. Each year, ACSA honors students, administrators, and community organizations for their achievements and dedication to public education at the regional and state levels.
In accepting the Region 8 award at last week’s dinner, Supervisor Simitian expressed gratitude for the recognition and reiterated his commitment to championing education as a catalyst for positive change.
These awards come following a nomination by Metropolitan Education District (MetroED) Superintendent Alyssa Lynch, who highlighted Simitian's remarkable contributions to the school district on multiple fronts.
"Simitian’s award is well-deserved, and we are grateful for his tireless advocacy in championing education as a cornerstone for building thriving communities,” Lynch said. “His steadfast support and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in bringing innovative programs to fruition at MetroED, paving the way for a brighter future for our students."
Simitian’s advocacy for Silicon Valley Career Technical Education’s (SVCTE) Electrical Vehicles/Automotive Services and Nursing Careers programs highlighted the importance of empowering students with hands-on experiences in critical fields that continue to be in high demand. He spearheaded collaborative efforts between MetroED and the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, including securing a one-time grant of $250,000 and facilitating partnerships, which allowed the launch of these programs in August 2023. They serve 105 additional students.
Lynch explained the importance of this grant, stating: “This type of financial and advocacy partnership builds positive relationships between schools and local communities by involving students in projects that contribute to solutions.”
The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) is the largest umbrella organization for school leaders in the United States, serving more than 16,000 California educators. ACSA's top priority is advocating for public school students in kindergarten through grade 12, as well as adult learners. The mission is to be the driving force of education in California and beyond. ACSA Region 8 consists of Santa Clara County, at the southern end of the San Francisco Bay Area. It comprises nearly 400 schools and more than 30 school districts, the largest of which is the San Jose Unified School District. In all, it serves about 262,000 students. For more information, visit www.regions.acsa.org/8
About Metropolitan Education District: MetroED is a regional provider of Career Technical Education (CTE) and Adult Education. We are the largest career-oriented education organization in Northern California for high school and adult students. Annually, MetroED provides 2,600 diverse students with the skills to help them be productive, income-earning and tax-paying contributors to Silicon Valley. Register for a free campus tour or get more information at www.metroed.net
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