Employee Spotlight: Amber Gonzales
04/01/2019 -
Name:
Amber Gonzales
Years at SCOE:
I’m in my fourth year. I worked in SCOE Special Education for a year as a school office coordinator before moving over to School & College Legal Services (SCLS).
Job Title:
Legal Secretary
How do you describe your job to people outside SCOE?
School & College Legal Services is a related agency to SCOE sort of like North Coast School of Education and SELPA. However, we are a joint powers authority (JPA) and we have our own Board. Our office provides legal services to school districts, community colleges, and county offices of education throughout California. We also provide preventative services via multi-client and client requested workshops. I provide secretarial support for several attorneys as they manage client matters and workshops respective to their various areas of expertise which include, but are not limited to, collective bargaining, general education and student issues, personnel and special education. I’m always learning something new about these broad areas.
Where did you grow up?
We moved around a lot as I was growing up. The majority of my childhood was spent in Southern California - Bakersfield, Ventura, and Nipomo. We also spent a year in Washington state. We moved to Grass Valley in the middle of my high school years. I then decided to move to Sonoma County on my own when I was 19. I’ve been here ever since!
Who was your favorite childhood teacher and why? Mr. Barris. He was a high school social studies teacher. He was very direct and energetic. He always had captivating stories to share. He ensured an interesting learning experience and fostered healthy debate and curiosity.
What is your favorite thing about working for SCOE/SCLS?
Many people that I’ve had the pleasure of working with at SCLS/ SCOE are very driven and passionate professionals. It’s inspiring to experience working with a group of people towards a common goal of supporting students and the community, be it directly or indirectly. I am proud to be among the public service employees of my family. My father and twin brothers work for the U.S. Forest Service; my sister works for the U.S. Postal Service; and my husband works for the County of Sonoma.
What is one of your most memorable moments as a SCOE employee?
I enjoy the Back-to-School events. There is lots of energy and anticipation for each new school year. The speakers are always inspiring. There is a strong sense of community in the gathering of SCOE departments and related agencies.
Outside of work, what is your favorite hobby or way to unwind?
I enjoy quality time with my family. I have a 12 year old daughter who plays sports year-round. I enjoy being involved and attending her sporting events. As a family, we are also involved in a local church. My husband and I volunteer there in a 5th and 6th grade program that focuses on preteen questions and struggles. We also get involved with community events such as an annual community service project. One year, we had the opportunity to assist with maintenance projects at Canine Companions. It is memorable and rewarding to participate in these events as a family.
What is your favorite place in Sonoma County?
I love the diverse landscape and scenery Sonoma County offers. There’s a little bit of everything - a little city and a little country, vineyards, beautiful trees and beaches. There is a variety of great restaurants and wineries. I like to explore new places and try new things.
What might people be surprised to learn about you?
I was commissioned by the State of California as a Notary Public for twelve years. I performed hundreds of notarizations during this time.