I was born in Lafayette and moved to Pleasanton when I was in college. I became an elementary PE teacher for 11 years in Pleasanton and later became a school administrator as the Vice Principal of middle school. I met my wife in 2006 and shortly after moved to downtown Livermore and we had our daughter. We’ve been Livermore residents for 13 years. One of the main reasons I chose to work in the Livermore School District, was because I wanted to put the same effort into my town and try to make a difference where my friends and family live.
Q: What are some fun activities to do in Livermore?
We are very outdoor oriented people. We like hiking in the area and we spend a lot of time at local sporting events. We enjoy motorcycle riding at Carnegie and love camping at Del Valle.
Q: What makes the Livermore community so special?
The history of the community is incredibly strong. I appreciate the history of the farmers and ranchers and how the town was developed. We have a good diverse mix of philosophies and ideals. We are a stable, welcoming and safe place. The wineries and Livermore downtown has a huge draw for visitors.
Q: Please tell us about where you work and what you love about what you do?
I have worked at Emma C. Smith Elementary for four years. I love it because I have a direct connection with 700 families in our community. While I support this zone, I think some of the ideals and systems that we use at Smith have a positive effect that radiates into the community. Every day, we have an opportunity with these children and the future. I feel lucky to have the opportunity with the students to make each day a great day and teach them to be a good part of our society.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
We go to the Ale House a lot! We like El Charro and Uncle Yu’s too. We are also fans of Demitris’.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’ve worked in Livermore for four years.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I’ve enjoyed Ozark and Blacklist. I really enjoy watching documentaries about sports and animals with my daughter. We really like Netflix “We Are the Champions.” There are some very interesting events that take place all over the world. One of the most interesting documentaries we watched was about a cheese rolling competition where the people chase a huge ball of cheese down a very large steep hill (extremely dangerous!)
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Assume positive intent and be kind. We all have a different perspective; we all wake up in a different scenario. At school, we don’t know what happened this morning for any one child, so we need to understand and support them as individuals as they walk through the door. In the community, we have to assume that most kids are not intending to be bad, they may have positive intent.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
I miss Dom’s. Ale House has been a staple and they have rebuilt and expanded. I have fond memories of First Street Yogurt Shop with my family. Also, Carnegie motorcycle track is unique to our town.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The proximity to beaches and mountains and the valley. We are nestled in a nice little spot with wineries and that differentiates us from a lot of communities. I love how I can get in my truck and have variety. We can go to go the mountains, snow or beach within 2 hours. The Christmas parade and 4th of July parade and Livermore Rodeo are very special for our community as well.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I race RC (remote control) cars at the track. I am really not social outside of school. When I am not in my professional environment, I enjoy quiet time with family and I really don’t prefer big crowds.
Q: What is your favorite holiday?
4th of July. We like the downtown parade and local fireworks.
Q: Who inspires you?
The students inspire me. Their willingness to try things and trust. Their excitement about new things reinforces the hard work we are doing. When I see their enthusiasm, it makes the challenges I face each day disappear.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Quiet, pets and family.
What is the best way to get a hold of you?
Emma C. Smith Elementary, Livermore 925-606-4750
