Award Recipient - Regional Community: Central Valley North

Central Valley North

“The Central Valley North (CVN) CITE Regional Group stands as a model of collaboration, leadership, and peer-driven support within the educational technology community. Comprised of dedicated professionals from districts and county offices across the region, CVN has fostered a space where challenges are shared openly, strategies are developed collectively, and innovative solutions are shaped together.

What sets this group apart is its strong foundation of leadership paired with a commitment to inclusivity and relevance.”

CITE Central Valley North Regional Group Nominator Information:

Nominated for this award by Emily Bryan and Zach Nyquist, they wrote:
“Under the chairmanship of Chris Higle (Ceres Unified School District) and supported by Rames Creel (San Joaquin County Office of Education), Domingo Flores (Merced County Office of Education), and Travis Dillon (Stanislaus County Office of Education), the group has benefitted from clear direction, consistency, and a unified vision. These leaders have not only ensured productive and well-structured meetings, but have also nurtured an environment in which every voice is valued, and every member has an opportunity to contribute meaningfully.

One of the most impactful moments in recent CVN gatherings was the utilization of breakout groups designed to address topics that matter most to local districts and educational agencies. This structure was not decided top-down, but developed in response to feedback from the group itself—underscoring the deeply collaborative and responsive nature of the region.

By tailoring the agenda to the interests and needs of members, CVN has ensured that meetings are not only informative, but also actionable and directly relevant to the work happening in schools and offices across the Central Valley.

Members regularly turn to the group not just for ideas, but for real-time problem-solving and encouragement. Whether it’s navigating cybersecurity, onboarding new systems, or implementing edtech frameworks, CVN members openly share their experiences, lessons learned, and tools for success. This willingness to both give and receive support reflects a professional culture that is rare and deeply appreciated.

… At its core, CVN is driven by a belief that we are stronger together, and that the challenges we face in educational technology are best met through collaboration and shared knowledge.”