Employee Spotlight: Suzanne Merideth

03/12/2025 -

Name:
Suzanne Merideth

Years at SELPA:
11 magical years

Job Title:
Program Specialist, SELPA

How do you describe your job to people outside SCOE and SELPA?

I am very fortunate to work with a highly skilled team who is knowledgeable in everything related to special education. We help others understand laws, processes, and best practices for providing support to students who are receiving special education services.

Where did you grow up?
Sacramento.

Who was your favorite childhood teacher and why?
Without a doubt, Mr. Mitch was my all-time favorite teacher. Seeing him walk into the classroom in a full Renaissance costume made his middle school history lessons quite memorable! He instilled a sense of agency by telling us we all had A’s from the start; it was up to us to put in the work and effort to keep them. He believed in our success, so then we internalized that same belief and worked very hard in his class. He also organized a field trip to Ashland, Oregon, to see the Shakespeare Festival. While I may not have understood the dialogue of the actors, it was certainly the highlight of my 8th grade year!

What is your favorite thing about SELPA?
Nothing lifts me up more than visiting school sites! Watching students build their independence, seeing teachers form meaningful relationships with uniquely abled students, and attending meetings with fellow educators while representing our SELPA is incredibly rewarding. Whether I’m at one of our local Sonoma County schools, a nonpublic school (NPS), or even traveling to visit one of the many charter schools across California, I truly enjoy witnessing educators in action.

What is one of your most memorable moments as a SELPA employee?
Aside from my defeat in a SELPA bake-off (biscuits are not my specialty), I’d say the most memorable moments of my career have been when I’m speaking to an entire LEA staff or at a conference. It can be really inspiring to connect and learn with educators who are dedicated to supporting the education of students with disabilities.

Outside of work, what is your favorite hobby or way to unwind?
Lately, much of my time spent outside of work has been spent as a cheerleader/transportation coordinator for my two kids as they compete in their school sports. Does this help me unwind? Absolutely not. However, it can be super rewarding to watch these kids challenge themselves. Once school is over, I hope to get back into my usual hiking and yoga routines. Namaste!

Do you have a favorite TV show, movie or book that involves a school setting?
“The Breakfast Club” really influenced me to avoid getting in trouble as a student. Although they make the most of it, spending a Saturday at school sounded like the worst possible punishment for me at the time.

What is your favorite place in Sonoma County?
It all depends on the weather: if it's rainy and cold, you’ll find me cozied up in front of the fireplace; if it's sunny and hot, take me to the Kortum Trail.

What might people be surprised to learn about you?
Most folks are surprised to hear about my grad school summer job working at the Waipi’o Costco and preparing rotisserie chicken.