In the wake of implementing Common Core State Standards, adopting Local Control and Accountability Plans, and serving some of the neediest students—excellence is a necessity. This year, the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region VII is celebrating the daily excellence of its leaders. On Friday, May 1, ACSA will be honoring three San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) administrators who embody Region VII’s mantra—“Lead to Inspire”. Congratulations to the following 2015 award recipients for their admirable leadership in public education: Continuation/Educational Option Administrator of the Year—Corleen Estes of Alternative Education; Retired Administrator of the Year—Greg Clark of Operations; and Technology Administrator of the Year—Ed Babakhan of one.Resource.
Corie Estes shows consideration and leadership for students every day. Perhaps the most significant contribution was the creation of one.STOP Mental Health Services, a holistic, school-based mental health services program which provides in-depth therapeutic counseling access, support to assist students in achieving academic and societal success, and wraparound services to students and their families.
For SJCOE students, mental health issues continue to be a barrier to academic and societal success. Through the formation of the one.STOP community-based partnerships, mental health therapists link students to appropriate agencies and services when necessary. “Without Corie’s passion for our students, staff and community success, these potentially life-saving services would not be a reality,” said Wendy Frink, Division Director of Alternative Education at SJCOE.
Much like Corie, Greg Clark promoted student success the moment he walked through the doors of education. Greg worked in multiple educational roles and for school districts throughout San Joaquin County. His diverse understanding of the needs of students and families, coupled with the nexus of community resources, ensure exceptional services are offered to students.
As the SJCOE Risk Manager, Greg made sure that SJCOE employees received up-to-date mandated information. He also served as part of Administrative Council, which examined and supported comprehensive learning to promote a positive workplace and organizational culture. “As an advocate, Greg always looked out for the bottom line when it came to protecting SJCOE assets via contracts, purchase orders and warrants,” said Sheri Coburn, Director of Comprehensive Health at SJCOE.
Greg Clark, Corie Estes, and Ed Babakhan are advocates for students and devoted to the community.
Ed Babakhan is committed to providing the most up-to-date technology and sharing of knowledge to administrators and teachers so they are best equipped to implement the latest instructional strategies in their classrooms.
Most recently, he spearheaded a project to design and build a state of the art recording studio for one.Charter - Academy of Visual and Performing Arts. He took the lead in soliciting designs and bids and worked closely with the contractor and companies selected to do the work. Ed’s services didn’t stop there. He continued to work after hours with the equipment to provide training to teachers and students. Due to Ed’s diligence and professionalism, students have access to a quality-recording studio that is positively impacting school culture through enrollment, attendance, and love for the arts.
“Ed’s passion to live life fully and devoted to others is evidenced in all that he does,” said Janine Cuaresma, Assistant Superintendent of County Operated Schools and Programs at SJCOE. “The goal of providing an education that compels students to succeed in school and be competitive in higher education and the world of work is evident in how Ed and his team provide technology leadership.”
The awards ceremony honoring Corie Estes, Ed Babakhan, and Greg Clark will be part of the ACSA Region VII Annual Spring Conference held May 1-3, 2015 at the Lake Tahoe Resort in South Lake Tahoe.