Board appoints Shauna Brewer to Berryessa Union School District board

The Berryessa Union School District board appointed Shauna Brewer to fill the vacancy left by Hugo Jimenez. Trustee Srinivasan moved to appoint Brewer, the motion was seconded and, on an oral roll call, President Bullock, Trustee Hauck, Trustee Nguyen and Trustee Srinivasan voted aye. The chair characterized the result as "a unanimous vote for the 4 of us." Brewer then took the oath of office and assumed the seat immediately.

The appointment followed a competitive process the board described earlier in the meeting: 18 applicants applied during a Sept. 15–30 window and the board’s subcommittee screened candidates. The board held an initial public-comment period, then advanced five finalists (Brewer, Randy Lee, Jonathan Montoya, Jamie Ku and Lara Kim) for a second round of interviews. Finalists answered four questions from trustees on collaboration with labor partners, supporting diverse learners, responding to public criticism and the trustee’s definition of equity.

Supporters and union representatives had addressed the board during public comment. Joe Herman, president of the California Teachers Association of Berryessa, said union leaders recommended Brewer and Randy Lee after reviewing applicants and earlier interviews. Several community members also urged the board to select candidates with classroom experience or strong ties to district families.

Trustees said they evaluated finalists on readiness to "hit the ground running," knowledge of district finances, demonstrated commitment to equity and the ability to bring new ideas. Trustee Srinivasan, who moved the appointment, told the room she was confident the selection would help the board move forward amid continuing fiscal and enrollment challenges.

Brewer repeated the oath of office and was welcomed to the dais. As a trustee she will serve the remainder of the vacated term and participate in upcoming board votes and committees.