DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION

AMY JONES

Amy Jones

SUPERINTENDENT

Amy Jones is a homegrown and permanent resident of Rincon Valley, she is proud to serve this amazing community in this capacity. She attended the local Brush Creek Montessori, Spring Creek and Matanzas Elementary, and feeder schools Herbert Slater Middle and Montgomery High. With that said, she is very well acquainted with the area and all Rincon Valley Schools which leads to a successful transition into this role. Growing up, she always knew she wanted to be an educator. Amy adored being around children, as well as, continuously learning. Currently, Amy holds a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Special Education. She comes to Rincon Valley with twenty-seven years of educational experience, all within Sonoma County. Amy is beyond thrilled to be back home and serving her local community.

MIKE HERFURTH

MIKE HERFURTH

DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT

Michael Herfurth was born and raised in Santa Rosa, California. After attending Sequoia Elementary, Rincon Valley Junior High, and Santa Rosa High, he stayed local by attending Santa Rosa Junior College and then Sonoma State University to earn his BA degree and teaching credential. Mike began his career teaching in Rincon Valley Union School District. After several years of teaching, he enrolled in the post graduate program at Saint Mary’s College of California, studying Educational Leadership. Mike was then given the opportunity to work in Rincon Valley as a principal, beginning his administrative career at Binkley Elementary, the very first school at which he taught. After six years as the principal at Binkley, Mike moved to Madrone and was the principal there for 4 years. In July 2019, Mike moved to the district office to become the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. In July 2021, Mike changed positions to become the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources.

Mike lives with his wife, Candice, and their three school age children. You will often see Mike in the community as he and his family live in Santa Rosa and are actively involved in many of the sports leagues in the city. Mike grew up playing soccer and baseball in Santa Rosa and he now enjoys being able to watch his kids do the same.

HILARY KJAER

LORI O'CONNOR

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

Hilary Kjaer's career journey in education has been marked by significant achievements and progress, evolving from a teacher to assuming roles of increasing responsibility within the school district. Starting as a dedicated teacher, Hilary Kjaer demonstrated a passion for education and a commitment to student success. Her teaching experience provided her with a deep understanding of classroom dynamics, educational methodologies, and the challenges faced by both students and educators.

Driven by a desire to make a broader impact on educational practices and policies, Hilary transitioned into a leadership role as a principal. As a principal, she brought her instructional expertise while also managing administrative responsibilities. This phase of her career allowed her to implement innovative educational initiatives, foster a positive school culture, and collaborate closely with teachers, parents, and the community. Building on her success as a principal, Hilary Kjaer then assumed the role of the Director of Teaching and Learning within the school district. In this capacity, she took on broader administrative duties, such as overseeing curriculum development and adoption, implementing district-wide educational programs, professional development and ensuring compliance with educational standards. Her strategic vision and leadership skills were instrumental in driving improvements across multiple schools within the district.  

Currently, Hilary serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, a position that reflects her extensive experience, leadership qualities, and dedication to advancing educational excellence. In this role, she plays a pivotal role in shaping district-wide policies, allocating resources effectively, and fostering a supportive environment for both students and staff. Her leadership continues to be characterized by a commitment to equity, innovation, and continuous improvement in educational outcomes. Assistant Superintendent, Hilary Kjaer has exemplified resilience, vision, and a steadfast dedication to enhancing the educational experience for all students. Her journey underscores the transformative impact that effective leadership can have within the realm of education, inspiring others to strive for excellence and equity in learning opportunities.

Hilary along with her husband Erik live in Occidental with their 2 daughters, Ahnicka and Iyla and numerous pets.

ALLEN WATTS

ALLEN K. WATTS

CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICIAL

Allen Watts joined the Rincon Valley Union School District in October 2019 as the Accountant in the Business Office. In March 2020 Allen was promoted to Chief Business Official responsible for the financial health of the District. He is responsible for the Business Office, Transportation and Food Services.

Allen spent over 24 years in the private sector working for Fireman’s Fund Insurance in Accounting and Auditing. He started his school career working at Marin County Office of Education in the Business Office/Technology Department following up with nine plus years as the accountant for Miller Creek School District in Marin.

Allen and his wife Delinda have been married for 35 years and have two daughters and one son. They also have two grandsons and four granddaughters. Allen enjoys time with family, friends, sports and camping in his free time.