School Psychologist
Worked directly with students, families, and educators to assess and support students with a wide range of academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
Get to know Jonathan Experience. Leadership. Students first.
01 / MEET JONATHAN
Meet Jonathan Lenz
“I believe deeply that every student, regardless of background, circumstance, or zip code, should receive an education that is challenging, empowering, and aligned with future college and/or career interests.”
For more than two decades, I have had the privilege of working in public education and seeing firsthand the power it holds to transform lives, expand opportunities, and empower students to reach their full potential. At the same time, I have witnessed what strong educational leadership can accomplish for students, families, and communities.
I have spent my career in education because I believe deeply that every student, regardless of background, circumstance, or zip code, should receive an education that is challenging, empowering, and aligned with future college and/or career interests. I have worked tirelessly throughout my career to create conditions that support this belief.
However, my connection to education is not only professional; it is deeply personal. I am the proud parent of two recent graduates from Sonoma County schools, and I currently have two younger children making their way towards graduation. As a parent, I have directly experienced the profound impact schools and programming can have on students and families.
I have also had the privilege of serving on a local school district Board of Education. My unique profile gives me valuable experience from all sides of the table, as a parent, an education professional, and an elected board member. These perspectives have given me a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges for students, families, educators, and school communities.
I am running for Sonoma County Board of Education, Trustee Area 2, to bring experience, thoughtful leadership, and a constant student-centered perspective to the Board.
02 / EXPERIENCE
Experience at Every Level
Director of Alternative Education
Led countywide programming serving students and families who needed different pathways from what was traditionally available at the local school district to succeed.
Director of Special Education
Led countywide PK-12+ special education programming serving students with moderate to severe educational needs on behalf of school districts as an essential element of the special education continuum.
Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) Director
Led the development and implementation of the local plan for the delivery of special education programming and governance across all school districts in the county.
School Board Member
Served on a local school board for four years, gaining firsthand educational experience in elected school governance and decision making.
Parent
My wife and I have raised our four children in Petaluma, two of whom are now graduates, and two of whom are still attending local public schools. As a parent, I have seen how policy and program decisions affect students, families, and their school experience.
Deputy Superintendent
Currently, I provide leadership, coordination, and strategic support to advance countywide educational initiatives and also work directly with County Board of Education members regarding governance, appellate reviews, and educational advocacy.
03 / PURPOSE
Why I Am Running
“Always putting students first and keeping what is best for kids at the center of every decision.”
As a lifelong educator and parent of two current students in Trustee Area 2, I am deeply committed and invested in public education. I understand the essential functions of the Sonoma County Board of Education and the vital role the County Office of Education plays in serving students, families, and school districts throughout Sonoma County. I want to actively promote, enhance, and contribute to the work of the Sonoma County Board of Education and elevate and advance educational initiatives in partnership with the Sonoma County Office of Education.
For the past 23 years I have worked in a County Office of Education in a variety of roles. Through every role, one principle has guided me; always putting students first and keeping what is best for kids at the center of every decision.
In my current role as a Deputy Superintendent in a County Office of Education, I work directly with County Board of Education members and directly support their governance. Having previously served on a local school district Board of Education, I understand educational governance at both the county and district level, and the importance of respecting local control.
If elected, I will bring practical experience and sound judgement to governance. I will listen carefully and ensure decisions are grounded in what is best for students, while working to ensure the County Office of Education programs and services are responsive to the needs of students and families throughout Sonoma County.
04 / UNDERSTANDING THE BOARD
Role of the County Board of Education
A Different Role Than a Local School Board
Local school board
Governs a school district
A local school board completely governs a school district. It hires and evaluates the Superintendent, sets the budget, and makes decisions about the schools and programs serving students within the district.
County Board of Education
A different, more limited role
A County Board of Education has a different, more limited role. It does not directly govern local school districts or the County Office of Education. Instead, its specific responsibilities are defined by state law.
Areas of Authority
Beyond its defined statutory areas of authority, the County Board should work collaboratively with the County Superintendent of Schools to support and advance the work of the County Office of Education’s mission, services, initiatives, and impact for the students, families, and school districts within the County.
05 / COMMITMENT
Ready to Serve
My 23 years experience in county education and service as an elected school board member, combined with my perspective as a parent have prepared me to serve thoughtfully and effectively on the Sonoma County Board of Education. I have a proven track record of responsible governance, transparent decision-making, and effective collaboration. I will put that experience, commitment, and collaborative approach to work in support of the students and families of Sonoma County.
06 / ENDORSEMENTS
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Endorsements
I am honored to have the support of educators, parents, community leaders, and neighbors who share a commitment to putting students first.
Together, we believe in thoughtful, student-centered leadership, strong public schools, and a County Board of Education that works collaboratively with the County Superintendent of Schools, local school districts, families, and community partners.
Endorsed By
Endorser names will be added after campaign review.
Titles and organizational affiliations are provided for identification purposes only.
Endorse Jonathan
Add your name to endorse my campaign for Sonoma County Board of Education Trustee Area 2:
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07 / SUPPORT OUR SCHOOLS
No Campaign Donations Requested
This campaign is not accepting donations. If you would like to make a difference, please consider donating directly to a local public school, classroom, or education focused nonprofit of your choice.
Your generous contribution will help to support students and educators in your community.
08 / CONTACT
Let’s Connect
I value hearing from students, families, educators, and community members across Sonoma County. Please share your ideas, questions, and concerns. I would be honored to connect with you.
lenzforscboe@gmail.com ↗