2026 Board Election Candidates
Meet the Candidates
Manuel Carrera
Senior Director - Information Technology, Carmel Unified School District
Benjamin Esquivel
Director of Technology, Imperial Unified School District
Chris Higle
Chief Technology Officer, Ceres Unified School District
My name is Chris Higle, and I serve as the Chief Technology Officer for Ceres Unified School District. Over the past 24 years in education, I've had the privilege of leading initiatives that advance digital learning, strengthen operations, and improve service while always keeping students and educators at the center of every decision.
I believe the best solutions come from collaboration, strong relationships, and a willingness to learn from one another. Through my involvement with CITE as a longtime member, conference presenter, CTOM mentor, and CITECVN regional leadership, I have experienced firsthand the value of technology leaders sharing ideas, working through challenges together, and supporting one another in in an ever-changing technology landscape.
I am running for the CITE Board because I want to give back to an organization that has played an important role in my professional growth. I would bring practical K–12 leadership experience, a collaborative approach, and an understanding of how technology connects with instruction, operations, and the people we serve. I also hope to provide a strong voice for the Central Valley and the diverse districts and communities across our region.
I would be honored to help CITE continue developing technology leaders, strengthening our profession, and shaping the future of education for students throughout California. Thank you for your consideration.
Pui Ma
Director of Technology Services, Rowland Unified School District
Scott Thomsen
Chief Technology & Operations Officer, Davis Joint Unified School District
My name is Scott Thomsen, and I’m seeking a seat on the CITE Board because I have benefited so much from this organization.
When I became Director of Technology, I was an instructional leader stepping into a world I barely understood. What I found at my first CITE conference wasn't just information; it was people willing to be real, set their titles aside, and actually help each other. That culture is rare in education. I want to protect and nurture this unique community because it makes members feel appreciated and connected.
My career spans nearly three decades in California public schools, from the classroom to principalship to my current role as Chief Technology and Operations Officer. I earned my CTO Certification through the CTO Mentor program and am now a Mentor for that program. I currently serve on CITE’s Technical Review Team and am completing a Master's with an emphasis on K-12 AI policy. These experiences would allow me to bring practical district leadership and a broad perspective to the Board.
The pressures on our districts right now are real: shrinking budgets, fast-moving AI, screen time debates, mobile device policies, and uncertain legislative landscapes. These challenges, however, are not insurmountable. Together, through CITE, we can rise to meet them head-on.
My leadership is grounded in integrity, service, and trust. I intend to bring these elements to every aspect of CITE board responsibilities. It would be an honor to serve this incredibly supportive community that has given so much to me.
The Election will run from September 23rd to November 1st. All Educational and Retired members are eligible to vote. All eligible voters should have received a ballot link directly emailed to them. If you did not receive a ballot link, please contact election@cite.org.