Sonoma County Office of Education

Employee Spotlight: Sarah Graves

05/26/2022 - Sarah Graves

Name:
Sarah Graves

Years at SCOE:
4.5 years

Job Title:
Resource Materials Clerk/Accounting Technician II

How do you describe your job to people outside SCOE?
This can be tricky sometimes since I work within multiple departments completing various tasks. The simplest way for me to put it is, I am a resource person and go where I am needed. I deliver mail, checks and multimedia resources to districts while also supporting the Maintenance & Operations and Business Services departments.

Where did you grow up?
I grew up right here in Sonoma County and graduated from Montgomery High School, born and raised in Santa Rosa. I’ve spent my whole life here and I feel so fortunate to call this place my home.

Who was your favorite childhood teacher and why?
This one is hard because I was lucky to have so many wonderful teachers! But if I had to choose a favorite, it would be my second grade teacher Mrs. Basche at Yulupa Elementary. At that time, I struggled with reading and dreaded silent reading time in class. Which is so funny because now I absolutely LOVE to read and work in a library setting. I believe a big part of my love for reading came from her. She really took the time to work one on one with me and provided the tools and resources I needed to succeed. After I moved on from second grade, at the beginning of every school year, I would stop by her classroom and say hello and catch up. She was so kind and patient and she truly had an impact on the way I approached learning.

What is your favorite thing about SCOE?
Definitely the people! I look forward to coming to work everyday because of the amazing folks I get to interact with.

What is one of your most memorable moments as a SCOE employee?
When people slowly started to come back to the main Skylane building after many months of employees being in isolation/WFH. It was so good to see my colleagues in person again!

Outside of work, what is your favorite hobby or way to unwind?
I really enjoy spending quality time with my husband, Devin, and our pup, Oakley. Whether we’re at home lounging, going for walks around the neighborhood or soaking up the rays out at the coast. Family time is my jam! Other ways I like to unwind are reading a good book, tending to my tea garden or getting creative in the kitchen.

Do you have a favorite TV show, movie or book that involves a school setting?
My favorite book doesn’t include a school setting, but it's “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman.

What is your favorite place in Sonoma County?
My favorite place to be is at home with my family. I am a homebody to my very core.

What might people be surprised to learn about you?
I am really into true crime. Give me all the podcasts, documentaries and books. I am here for it!