Re-Elect Heather Owen

Monterey County Board of Education

Putting Students First. Supporting Families. Strengthening Public Education.

Meet Heather

For more than 27 years, I've worked to help students succeed.

As a mother of three boys in public schools and President of the Monterey County Board of Education, I understand the importance of strong schools, supporting families, and ensuring every child has access to an excellent education.

Working for Students and Families

Every decision I make is guided by one simple principle: putting students first.

📚 Student Success

Helping every child succeed

Strong academics and programs that prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success.

🤝 Parent Partnership

Parents are essential partners

Families should be informed, respected, and involved in decisions that affect their children's education.

🛡️ Fiscal Responsibility

Making every educational dollar count

Transparent governance and responsible stewardship that keeps the focus on students.

🎓 Learning Opportunities

Meeting students where they are

Supporting educational opportunities that help every child thrive.

Experience at a Glance

More than 27 years of experience serving students, families, and our community.

27+

Years in Education

4

Years on the Board

2

Years as Board President

3

Children in Public Schools

A Closer Look at my Experience

Professional Experience

🍎 Classroom Teacher

Kindergarten & First Grade Teacher

I began my career teaching kindergarten and first grade, where I developed a deep appreciation for the importance of building strong academic foundations. Working directly with young learners and their families shaped my commitment to ensuring every child receives the support they need to succeed.

🎓 Educational Leadership

Director of Education

As Director of Education for Sylvan Learning Center, I worked with students, parents, and teachers to develop individualized learning plans and improve academic outcomes.

📖 Curriculum Development

Educational Publishing

I developed English language curriculum and instructional materials for National Geographic School Publishing and Cengage Learning, helping create educational resources used by classrooms throughout the country.

Board Leadership

During my four years on the Monterey County Board of Education, I have had the opportunity to serve in a variety of leadership roles and committee assignments that support students, families, and school districts throughout Monterey County.

Vice President

  • Served One Year

  • Supported effective board governance

  • Collaborated with fellow trustees on countywide educational priorities

Board President

  • Serving second consecutive year

  • Preside over board meetings

  • Set board agendas and work with the County Superintendent

  • Collaborate with county and state leadership

Board Assignments

  • Safe & Healthy Schools Coalition Member

  • CAPC Board Representative

  • Facilities Master Plan Committee Member

  • ACCBE Board Representative

‍ ‍

Continuing Professional Development

‍ ‍Effective leadership requires continual learning.

  • California School Boards Association (CSBA) conferences

  • Association of California County Boards of Education (ACCBE) trainings and webinars

Currently enrolled:

  • CSBA Masters in Governance® program

Community Leadership

Manzanita Park Playground Project Committee Member

I served on the Manzanita Park Playground Project Committee, helping guide the planning and construction of an inclusive playground that provides North County children and families with a safe place to play.

4-H Project Leader & Record Book Advisor

I mentor youth through hands-on learning, leadership development, and record book guidance to help young people build confidence and lifelong skills.

Additional Community Service

  • Prunedale School Site Council Member

  • North Monterey County Unified School District LCAP Committee

Why I Serve

Public education isn't just my profession—it's my family's story and my life's work.

As a parent, educator, and member of the Monterey County Board of Education, I've never lost sight of why this work matters.

Every day, I see public education through the eyes of my three boys—including one with special needs—which reminds me that every board decision impacts real children, real families, and real futures.

I earned a Spanish minor at UC Davis so I could communicate directly with Spanish-speaking students and families. Every family should feel heard, understood, and welcomed as a partner in their child's education.

Every child deserves to be seen, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. That belief continues to guide every decision I make.

Serving on the Monterey County Board of Education is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I remain committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Endorsements

Trusted by Educators, Community Leaders, and Families

I am honored to have earned the support of individuals who believe in putting students first and strengthening public education throughout Monterey County.

Education Leaders

Dr. Deneen Guss

Monterey County Superintendent of Schools

Ralph Porras

Deputy Superintendent, Monterey County Office of Education

John McPherson

Monterey County Board of Education

Don Chapin

Lagunita School Board Member

Angelo DiMarco

Board Member, North Monterey County Unified School District

Judy Pennycook

Former Trustee, Monterey County Board of Education

Ronald J. Panziera

Former Trustee, Monterey County Board of Education

Janet Wohlgemuth

Former Trustee, Monterey County Board of Education

Community Leaders

Andrew Sandoval

Salinas City Council Member

Monterey County Neighbors

Jonathan Battey

Business Owner

Peter Kasavan

President, Kasavan Architects