Congratulations to Natalie Hofkins, who was sworn in yesterday as the first-ever student trustee representing alternative education students on the Santa Cruz County Board of Education!
Natalie, a senior at Oasis High School, became the second student trustee seated in the 2024-25 term, joining at-large student trustee Ruben Marcus.
As a student trustee, Natalie shared she is eager to focus on expanding mental health resources and support for alternative education programs. She hopes to raise awareness and advocate for expanded services for students who may not have access to consistent mental health care.
Natalie aspires to become a school psychologist, focusing on supporting special education students and autism diagnosis.
The position of student trustee is intended to provide a platform for student perspective and advocacy. Student trustees are recognized as part of the Board and may present motions, make comments, ask questions of presenters, and cast preferential votes. The Santa Cruz County Board of Education adopted a policy creating the role of student trustee in 2022, appointing its first ever student trustee in Fall 2023.