Maricela Schrunk was awarded the 2025 Solano County Teacher of the Year at the Solano Educators of the Year Awards. As a  Solano County Office of Education special education teacher, Maricela works at Gretchen Higgins Elementary. Known for her unwavering advocacy for students with extensive support needs, Maricela is celebrated for creating an inclusive, nurturing classroom that honors each child’s journey. Families and colleagues alike praise her compassionate, collaborative approach and commitment to ensuring that every student, regardless of ability, feels valued and capable.

 

Solano County Superintendent of Schools, Lisette Estrella-Henderson, has announced her retirement, effective September 1, 2025, following an extraordinary 40-year career in education, including nearly 21 years with the Solano County Office of Education (SCOE). Estrella-Henderson has served as County Superintendent since January 2017.

The Solano County Board of Education will appoint a successor to complete the remainder of her term.

In her announcement, Estrella-Henderson expressed gratitude for the community and her colleagues, calling it “one of the greatest privileges” of her life to serve Solano County’s students, families, and educators. Her tenure has been marked by notable achievements across key areas such as special education, career readiness, student wellness, fiscal accountability, and pandemic response.

Under her leadership, SCOE secured millions in additional resources, launched numerous student programs, expanded school-based mental health services, and supported groundbreaking educational initiatives like Universal PreKindergarten and the construction trades program for court-involved youth.

Estrella-Henderson reflected, “There is no greater honor than having served in an organization focused on supporting young people to blossom and accomplish greatness in ways they may never have imagined.”

She will retire as the 23rd Solano County Superintendent of Schools, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, equity, and unwavering dedication to student success.