Ladies of San Joaquin County Office of Education
Bella Githere
Coordinator
STEM, Workforce Development, and Innovation
STEM Champion
Bella Githere is a core member of the STEM programs team. She is ever-present, innovative, and full of spark for those interested in learning about STEM. From students and student events to professional learning opportunities for educators and her role as an adjunct professor at the Teachers College of San Joaquin, it’s clear that Bella is passionate about her work. When asked what inspires her, Bella shared, “the teachers who come to professional learning sessions ready to learn, stay engaged, and take back the most impactful lesson to their students.”
This last school year, Bella was instrumental in facilitating the inaugural County Operated Schools and Programs STEM Showcase. This event was the first time some of the students had an education experience where they were positively showcased. It’s this type of partnership and innovation that highlights Bella’s strengths as a leader, colleague, and educator.
Michelle Hicks
Coordinator
Student Engagement and the Arts
Creativity Leads the Way
If you have ever attended a countywide student event, chances are high that you have crossed paths with Michelle Hicks. Working within the Student Engagement and the Arts department, Hicks coordinates and facilitates key academic competitions across the region, including the Science Olympiad, the County Spelling Bee, and the Academic Decathlon. Her dedication extends beyond traditional academic subjects. Mishelle actively plans and supports the popular Color the Summer Art Camp, which serves creative third through eighth graders throughout the entire county.
“Supporting students and engaging them with what they are passionate about is important,” Michelle shared. “It validates their strengths and lets them know their talents are truly valued.” When she is not busy empowering student creativity, Michelle enjoys spending time outdoors and traveling with her husband and three children.
Sophary Sam
Counselor
Come Back Kids
Compassionate Connector
Sophary Sam has dedicated her career to serving others, inspired by her mother’s resilience as a Cambodian refugee who sacrificed to build a better life for her family. She has an extensive background working with children and youth across San Joaquin County. Currently, Sophary is a school counselor at Come Back Kids, an educational program that is offered through the SJCOE’s County Operated Schools and Programs division that can help anyone 18 years and older earn their high school diploma.
“CBK provides more than an education,” Sophary shared. “We offer a safe haven where students feel valued, supported, and understood. By building trusting relationships, we create an environment where students want to continue showing up, even when life presents challenges.” Sophary’s compassion and collaborative nature ensure her students – no matter their age – are on track to transform their lives.
Yvette Warren
Coordinator
Operations
Distinguished Leader
With over 26 years of dedicated service at the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE), Yvette deeply understands the organization’s inner workings. She is committed to equipping SJCOE programs and staff with the resources they need to create meaningful opportunities for students, educators, and the broader community. “Everything we do at the SJCOE is to serve our students and our community,” Yvette shared. A member of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access steering committee, Warren also believes equity embedded in our policies and practices is key to meeting needs- from employee travel to procuring essential goods and services.
Outside of her professional achievements, Yvette enjoys spending time with her husband, three children, and eight grandchildren. Her favorite time of year is Christmas, which brings her family together for holiday traditions and baking.
2922 TRANSWORLD DRIVE • STOCKTON, CA • 209-468-4800
WWW.SJCOE.ORG
