Get to Know New AUHSD Governing Board Member: Wendy Reicher
Posted on August 21, 2023 by Acalanes Blueprint
By Ellie Hansen, Melina Galacatos, Molly Connelly, Tatum McElhattan, Staff Writers
// This summer, the Acalanes Union High School District (AUHSD) Governing Board appointed Wendy Reicher as their newest member.
The AUHSD Governing Board consists of five adult citizens and one student member and votes on various issues within the district at montly meetings, including curriculum development, budgeting, and policies.
Reicher was appointed on Aug. 3 to fill the vacancy after former member Kristin Connelly resigned in June. Superintendent John Nickerson explained the terms of Reicher’s position in an email to the AUHSD community.
“Unless a petition calling for a special election, pursuant to California Election Code Section 5091, is filed in the office of the Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools within 30 days from August 3, 2023, the provisional appointment shall become an effective appointment. Ms. Reicher’s appointment term ends in December 2024,” Nickerson said.
Typically new members are chosen through an election process; however, Reicher was selected through an interview process instead. After evaluating nine other candidates, Reicher was selected for the governing spot and had the opportunity to reflect on the process.
“There were nine very qualified candidates, all with strong backgrounds who could have served our community well… The Governing Board ultimately voted, and it was all done very transparently. It was definitely a very special moment to be sworn in,” Reicher said.
Previously, Reicher worked as a substitute teacher at Campolindo High School and was the College and Career Advisor at Acalanes High School from 2019 to 2021. Additionally, she volunteers as the current Campolindo Parents Club President.
Due to her experience within multiple AUHSD campuses, Reicher has substantial knowledge of the district and the role of the Governing Board.
“I have a strong and deep understanding of the district landscape and possess the qualifications necessary to lead in the best interest of this community,” Reicher said.
As a board member, the important decisions made for the AUHSD schools now fall onto Reicher and her colleagues.
“Some of the issues we are facing are recruiting and retaining great teachers, supporting the learning gaps in some of our student groups, and continuing to support a positive school climate and social-emotional development in the classroom. I also feel passionate about the importance of our wellness centers’ role on campus as well as supporting the work of our [Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging] groups,'” Reicher said.
Reicher has three kids of her own who attend schools within Lamorinda, adding to her engagement and connection to the community.
“I’ve had a chance to witness the benefits of my children being able to get a superior public educational experience in their own community. I have tremendous gratitude and see that as a gift, so when it comes to my opinions as a board member, I hope they will begin with those sentiments'” Reicher said.
