Superintendent May Newsletter

Ms. Barrington graduated from UC Davis with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science, and a minor in German. She earned a Master of Arts Degree in Business Administration from Sacramento State, earned the Chief Business Official certification from (CASBO), and participated in the Chief Business Official Mentor Program through (FCMAT).

As an experienced CBO, Ms. Barrington believes, “School business is essential in developing and providing every student the right to a high-quality education that is aligned to the diverse needs of all learners and provided in a safe and nurturing environment.” Ms. Barrington also stresses the need for stable financial resources and processes, as well as the importance of each department’s contribution to the success of the organization.

Mr. Brian Dolan, current and long tenured Superintendent of Dixon Unified School District, said, “She is, hands down, the best CBO I have worked with in my career…. “In just two years, Trudy has brought us a level of organization, policies, procedures, and operations that has improved the credibility of and confidence in the business office.”

Ms. Barrington is excited to join the Benicia Unified School District and looks forward to engaging with students, staff, and the community. We are excited to have Ms. Trudy Barrington join BUSD and look forward to working with her. Welcome, Trudy Barrington!

Ms. Bellanti earned a Bachelor of Arts Honors Degree in Human Communication and Communication Disorders from Manchester University, Manchester, UK.. She earned a Postgraduate Certificate in Primary Education from Brunel University, London, UK and a Masters of Education in School Leadership from the  University of San Diego.

Ms. Bellanti believes her “leadership is centered in truly knowing that every child can succeed in an educational environment that is culturally responsive, academically engaging, and safe.” She also stresses the importance of building professional relationships and establishing trust.

Mr. Jacob Hobson, Principal of Glenwood elementary school stated, “Ms. Bellanti’s partnership with staff increased their capacities and overall connection to the school community, which further increased student levels of success.

Ms. Michelle Reece, Teacher on Special Assignment from Berkeley Unified School District stated, “Cathy is clearly skilled in the delicate art of managing people in a way that makes individuals feel valued while also ensuring accountability. Cathy’s attention to detail and clear communication is phenomenal. Teachers ranged from veteran to first year teachers, and Cathy empowered all with the support, materials and confidence needed to provide a positive learning experience throughout the summer school program.”

Ms. Bellanti is excited to join the Benicia Unified School District and looks forward to engaging with students, staff, and the community. Welcome, Ms. Bellanti! We look forward to working with you!

Ms. Dudley graduated cum laude from Sacramento State University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Child Development.

As an experienced leader, Ms. Dudley understands the importance of building relationships within the community. She believes her commitment to excellence, unwavering work ethic, and expectations for high standards enhances her performance and the performance of others.

Dr. June Regis, current Director of CDU stated, “One of Erica’s standout qualities is her ability to lead and inspire a team. In her coaching of teachers, she cultivates a work environment that prioritizes collaboration and inclusivity, actively promoting open communication and the exchange of ideas among team members. Erica is able to bring out the best in others, creating a positive and productive atmosphere that is conducive to achieving both individual and collective goals.”

Ms. Dudley is excited to transition to her new role and we welcome her with open arms.  Congratulations and Welcome, Erica Dudley!

As the Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, Ms. Jennings initiated the “Ecosystem of Carino” program to foster a compassionate community of educators that supports students while maintaining high academic expectations. Her efforts in organizing multilingual family learning sessions earned her district the prestigious 2022 California Pivotal Practice Award from the California Department of Education. In previous roles, including Director of Employee Engagement and Development and Coordinator of Certificated Induction, Curriculum, and Instruction, Ms. Jennings demonstrated exceptional leadership in professional development, mentorship, and program implementation. Notably, she led the creation of the North Bay Teacher Residency Program, fostering the growth and development of new educators in partnership with Sonoma State University. Ms. Jennings has been recognized as the 2024 Curriculum and Instruction Administrator of the Year by the Association of California School Administrators, Region 4, and the 2022 Exemplary Leadership in Education Award by the California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators. Her dedication to teaching excellence was evident early in her career, earning distinctions such as Solano County Teacher of the Year and Vallejo City Unified School District Teacher of the Year.

Ms. Jennings is a doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice from California State University, East Bay. She has earned a Master’s of Arts in Educational Leadership from Saint Mary’s College and holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Loyola Marymount University. Ms. Jennings is a contributor to educational research, presenting papers at prestigious conferences such as the American Education Research Association Annual Conference and the Hawaii International Conference on Education. Her research interests include teacher residency programs, diverse teacher recruitment, and the well-being of educational leaders.

Throughout her career, Ms. Jennings has worked to close the opportunity gap by cultivating strong family and community engagement, providing innovative learning experiences for students, and leveraging professional learning to support teacher and site leader growth. She will begin her tenure with Benicia Unified School District on July 1, 2024.