About Michelle
Early years and education
Michelle grew up in a small town in Southern Maine and moved to California to attend Cal Poly Humboldt where she graduated with a degree in Art Education and a Masters in Computers and Technology in Education. She worked as an art and technology teacher, director of adult and alternative programs, a university instructor, principal, and district superintendent. Her most recent position prior to becoming the first woman elected as County Superintendent of Schools in 2018, was as district superintendent of Anderson Valley Unified, a top achieving district in Mendocino County.
Altogether, Michelle has 28 years as an educator and administrator.
Serving Mendocino County families and community
Uniquely prepared to serve as County Superintendent of Schools, Michelle ran and was elected Mendocino County Superintendent of Schools in 2018. As county superintendent, she oversees the regulatory administration and educational support services for all school districts in the County. Upon taking office, she made it a priority to increase transparency and communication with the public. Currently, she writes a monthly column/blog and host a KZYX radio show to highlight successes and challenges faced by local leaders.
For two out of the three years she has served as county Superintendent, Michelle and her staff, teachers and students have worked diligently under the scourge of COVID, to keep schools open, students engaged, and the public informed and involved.
Michelle lives in in Willits where she raises pigs, dairy goats, chickens, ducks, and worms on a 7-acre farm with her husband and two children.