At a special meeting on March 31, 2026, the Eureka City Schools
Governing Board voted to provisionally appoint Jess Pettitt to serve as Trustee for Area 5. Pettitt
will complete the remainder of Jessica Rebholtz’s term, which runs through December 2026.
Pettitt. Profile picture via LinkedIn.
Pettitt, a longtime Eureka resident of 20 years, brings a broad background in education,
facilitation, and community-based work. A professional speaker by profession, Pettitt has
worked across K-12 and higher education settings, including teaching, curriculum development,
mediation, and supporting educators and organizations throughout the region.
The Board conducted interviews with all applicants during the special meeting, asking each
candidate to reflect on their experience, connection to Eureka City Schools, and approach to
governance. The conversation also focused on the role of a trustee as part of a governance
team - balancing accountability, maintaining clear boundaries, and making decisions that reflect
the needs of learners and the broader community.
Throughout the process, candidates were asked to speak to issues aligned with ECS’s Designing
Tomorrow framework, including equitable access for learners, transparent communication, and
the ability to navigate complex or difficult conversations with care and integrity.
Pettitt’s responses reflected a strong belief in public schools as safe spaces that build both
academic skills and a sense of belonging, emphasizing curiosity, collaboration, and community
connection. She also highlighted the importance of honest, human-centered communication
across all parts of a school system to build trust and strengthen relationships.
“As a former teacher myself, getting involved in my local community is important to me, and
what better way than serving as an appointed member on the Board of Trustees?” Pettitt asks.
“Schools are safe spaces in my neighborhood, serve as polling places, meeting spaces, and serve
my neighbors as an employer, and where their children become life-long leaders and learners.”
Superintendent Gary Storts shared, “Jess’s appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to
strong, learner-centered governance. She brings both professional expertise and a genuine
passion for public schools as places of belonging and opportunity. I look forward to partnering
with her and the Board as we continue shaping a future-ready system for all learners.”
Pettitt will be officially seated at the regular board meeting on April 9, 2026.
The provisional appointment allows the Board to continue its work without interruption while
staying focused on its goals for students and the community.
For more information about Eureka City Schools, visit this link.
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