“Your interest in the issues of concern for the working people of our communities is greatly appreciated,” said the IELC.
Mikki Cichocki, after her first day as a San Bernardino City Unified School District board member, is running for a second term.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. — The Inland Empire Labor Council, AFL-CIO has voted to grant its Committee on Political Education’s (COPE) Endorsement to Mikki Cichocki for her bid for the San Bernardino Unified School District for a second term on the board.
The COPE IELC Political Team said, “Your interest in the issues of concern for the working people of our communities is greatly appreciated. We look forward to working with you and wish you the best on Election Day.”
Cichocki is currently serving as the incumbent and is seeking a second term. She stated, “During my first term, we hired a new superintendent and unified the board and the cabinet to work together as a team to address important issues such as attendance, academics, safety, and the district’s ongoing anti-bullying efforts.”
Here are her priorities for San Bernardino City School District students in her second term:
1. Support the District’s mission to ensure that each student has the skills, resilience, and determination to create their path and thrive in school, career, and life.
2. Enhance access to science, technology, and fine arts.
3. Ensure accountability and fiscal responsibility.
4. Provide students and staff with safe and welcoming schools.
Cichocki, a San Bernardino native, started teaching elementary and middle school students in the district. Later, she worked with the district’s Youth Services Administrative Hearing Panel, which managed disciplinary matters, transfers, and attendance issues.
As a Program Specialist, she implemented the San Bernardino Restorative Youth Court. Mikki worked for the district for more than 30 years and retired in 2022. Her extensive and valuable experience with students has shaped her commitment and contributions as a district board member.
Learn more about the San Bernardino City Unified School District, its schools, and its initiatives at https://www.sbcusd.com.
For more information on Mikki Cichocki, visit: https://www.facebook.com/Mikki4SBCUSD.
About Mikki Cichocki
Mikki Cichocki’s interest in education can be traced back to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. She was born and raised in the city and attended public K-12 schools. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. Since 1987, she has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District. Currently, she works in Youth Services for the District, where she leads the effort to work with at-risk students and “outliers,” helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. Additionally, she serves for two years as a Board Member within the District. She was also Secretary-Treasurer for the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
“I thank the ABOTA organization for validating the results we have been able to achieve with our Restorative Youth Court Program, where we focus on students’ strengths rather than their deficits,” said Mikki Cichocki.
“I first met her when we were working together in the Restorative Youth Court Program. I quickly understood that she was so devoted to her children,” said San Bernardino Superior Court Judge John. M. Pacheco.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.—The American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) has honored Mikki Cichocki with its prestigious Teacher of the Year Award, given to her in recognition of her tireless advocacy on behalf of students, diverting them away from the criminal justice system and helping them return to their studies so they can earn their diploma and get on with a productive life and career.
“I was surprised to learn I had gotten this award,” said Cichocki, “and I thank the ABOTA organization for validating the results we have been able to achieve with our Restorative Youth Court Program, where we focus on students’ strengths rather than their deficits.
“Students come to Youth Court not to be punished but to be diverted away from the school-to-prison pipeline and become productive learners who are able to graduate and pursue their dreams and aspirations. The program helps our next generation move forward.”
San Bernardino Superior Court Judge John M. Pacheco presented the award to Mikki and said, “I first met her when we were working together in the Restorative Youth Court Program. I quickly understood that she was so devoted to her children…. For 33 years she has been a phenomenal teacher and is so involved with her students.”
“It is essential that we increase the resources devoted to providing needed counseling services that now are seriously under-staffed. We need to invest in expanded curriculum offerings, career and technical education and the visual and performing arts. Every student has their strengths. We must support and nurture each child to unlock their possible futures.”
Mikki Cichocki traces her interest in education to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. Raised here, she attended San Bernardino public schools until the 10th grade and graduated from Aquinas High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. She has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District since 1988. Recently, she retired from the Positive Youth Development department in the district, where she worked with at-risk students, helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. She also serveson the board of the California Association of Youth Courts and previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
The American Board of Trial Advocates, known as ABOTA, is an invitation-only organization of the finest lawyers and judges in America. ABOTA is an organization of attorneys representing both plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases. All of the attorneys who belong to ABOTA have earned great distinction at trial. ABOTA was created in 1958 to defend and preserve the rights granted to all Americans by the 7th Amendment to the Constitution, particularly the right to trial by jury. The Foundation of the American Board of Trial Advocates was established in 1993 as the educational arm to instruct the public on the history and value of our civil justice system. ABOTA also promotes professional education aimed at elevating standards of legal professionalism, integrity, honor and courtesy.
San Bernardino Board of Education Superintendent Ted Alejandre Endorses Mikki Cichocki for SBCUSD Board.
“Mikki is focused on what students need to be successful.,” said San Bernardino County Schools Superintendent Ted Alejandre.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.—Mikki Cichocki continues to amass endorsements from leading educators as she runs for the short-term seat on the San Bernardino City Unified School District Board. San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Ted Alejandre has added his name to the long list of her supporters.
Alejandre and his predecessor, Herb Fischer, both cite her passionate and genuine interest in making sure that students, especially those who may be having trouble with disciplinary issues, get the support they need to get on track and pursue meaningful careers.
“I’ve known Mikki since 1979,” said Alejandre. “Mikki is focused on what students need to be successful. She is people-oriented and not only has helped students as a teacher and a Youth Court advocate, she has also supported her fellow teaching colleagues by providing resources to them through her role with the California Teachers Association.”
“I’m pleased and honored that Ted Alejandre has endorsed my campaign. I want to give back to the community that raised me. We need a board that is focused on our students and their school experience.”
Cichocki believes that all stakeholders of the SBCUSD must have their voices heard and that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus.
Mikki Cichocki traces her interest in education to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. Raised here, she attended San Bernardino public schools until the 10th grade and graduated from Aquinas High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. She has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District since 1988. Recently, she retired from the Positive Youth Development department in the district, where she worked with at-risk students, helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. She also serves on the board of the California Association of Youth Courts and previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
Don English, Chaffey Joint Union board member, has known Mikki for more than 15 years. He said, “Mikki cares about what’s best for all her students. She knows what it takes and knows what to do to make things better.”
“She knows the ins and outs of the system from the student’s perspective and has clear and sensible ideas about what to do to make things better,” said Upland Unified School District board member Sherman Garnett.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.—Three highly regarded Inland Valley school board members representing three local school districts are all throwing their support behind Mikki Cichocki for the San Bernardino City Unified School District Board.
“I am honored and excited to receive the endorsement of Sherman Garnett with Upland Unified, Don English with Chaffey Joint Union and Don Bridge with Chino Valley for the San Bernardino City Unified School District Board,” said Mikki Cichocki.
All announced their endorsement of Mikki Cichocki for the SBCUSD Board short term seat. Their support comes from their personal experience of watching her in action as a classroom teacher, program specialist and as the Secretary-Treasurer for the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
“I support Mikki because she not only knows her students and what they need, she also knows finance thanks to her tenure as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association and she has been able to create productive relationships with members of the California legislature. That combination means she can actually get things done to make things better for her district,” said Chino Valley Unified School District board member Don Bridge.
“I support Mikki because she not only knows her students and what they need, she also knows finance thanks to her tenure as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association and she has been able to create productive relationships with members of the California legislature. That combination means she can actually get things done to make things better for her district,” said Chino Valley Unified School District board member Don Bridge.
“Mikki has been very active in the administration of child welfare for the California Teachers Association and is truly passionate about seeing that every student gets a chance to succeed,” said Upland Unified board member Sherman Garnett.
“Mikki has been very active in the administration of child welfare for the San Bernardino School District and is truly passionate about seeing that every student gets a chance to succeed. She knows the ins and outs of the system from the student’s perspective and has clear and sensible ideas about what to do to make things better,” said Upland Unified board member Sherman Garnett.
Don English, Chaffey Joint Union board member, has known Mikki for more than 5 years. He said, “Mikki cares about what’s best for all her students. I’ve seen her go to bat for youngsters that come to her Youth Court and keep them out of the criminal justice system, helping them to turn themselves around and get on the right track. She knows what it takes and knows what to do to make things better.”
Cichocki is convinced that all members of the SBCUSD must have their voices heard and that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus on actions to take.
“Together with the board, parents, teachers, and classified employees we will give every child the chance to succeed,” said Cichocki.
The SBCUSD is the seventh largest school district in the state with an annual budget of $824.7 million and spends $16,492 per student each year. The district has more than 54,000 students and 11,000 adult education students, in 73schools.
Mikki Cichocki traces her interest in education to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. Raised here, she attended public schools until the 10th grade and graduated from Aquinas High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. She has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District since 1987. Recently, she retired from the Positive Youth Development department in the district, where she led the effort to work with at-risk students, helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. She also serves on the board of the California Association of Youth Courts and previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
CSEA Chapter 183 Endorses Mikki Cichocki for San Bernardino City Unified School District Board
“Classified employees are the heartbeat of the district,” said Mikki Cichocki. “They interact every day with the students, and they are often the staff members on campus most likely to know what is happening with our students. They keep our schools running.
CSEA employees perform a wide range of essential work in the district, including security, food services, office and clerical work, school maintenance, operations, transportation, academic assistance and paraeducator services, library and media assistance, and computer services. The fact that they have chosen to endorse Cichocki is an honor and reflects her commitment and experience.
CSEA Chapter 183 endorses 7 Mikki Cichocki for SBCUSD Board
“Classified employees are the heartbeat of the district,” said Cichocki. “They interact every day with the students, and they are often the staff members on campus most likely to know what is happening with our students. They keep our schools running. I am delighted that 2,310 classified employees who support more than 50,000 students and 11,000 adult education students, in 73 schools of the San Bernardino Unified School District have endorsed me for the school board,” said Cichocki.
The SBCUSD is the seventh largest school district in the state with an annual budget of $824.7 million and spends $16,492 per student each year.
“The CSEA and I both believe that ‘Every student deserves a chance to succeed.’ Together with CSEA members, the board, parents, and teachers, we will give every child the chance to succeed,” said Cichocki.
Herb Fischer Former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Endorses Mikki Cichocki for SBCUSD Board.
“I support Mikki for SBCUSD School Board,” says former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Herb Fischer.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.— Education leaders, teachers, parents and students know that San Bernardino City Unified School District Board candidate Mikki Cichocki will work tirelessly to improve learning opportunities and defend neighborhood schools.
That’s why the endorsements of retired San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Herb Fischer and San Bernardino City Unified Board President Scott Wyatt mean so much.
“Mikki is an experienced educator who has worked with students, teachers, administrators, parents and community members,” said Fischer. “She has a history of being focused on students and independent in her decisions and actions.”
Cichocki promises to focus on improving schools and expanding student opportunities.
“I want to give back to the community that raised me,” she said. I realize that I have the desire to serve as well as the experience in this district to understand what students and staff need and have experienced these past three years. We need a board that is focused on education.”
Cichocki has attracted considerable support from educators who have gotten to know her during her long tenure as a teacher and school administrator. What’s equally worth noting is how students feel about her candidacy.
“My experience as a student working with her at the San Bernardino Restorative Youth Court was an amazing experience. She made the work a safe and fun environment. She really made it worthwhile to attend Youth Court and helped open my eyes to new opportunities,” said 2022 San Bernardino Unified graduate Makayla Antweiler Keene.
Eric Johnson, a senior at San Andreas High School, said Cichocki is a valuable mentor.
“If I needed someone to talk to or needed a favor, Mikki is the first person I go to. So, students shouldn’t hesitate to call or text her because she’ll always be there when you need her.”
San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki
Student Fatima Villabazo Garcia said she had an amazing time working with Cichocki on youth court and the Student Leadership Advisory Committee.
“She always has the best attitude and there was never a dull moment. She is fun and always makes sure that everything is in check,” Garcia said.
Retired San Gorgonia High School teacher Angie Alvino said Cichocki is the right candidate for the SBCUSD Board of Education.
Retired San Gorgonia High School teacher Angie Alvino said Cichocki is the right candidate for the SBCUSD Board of Education.
“Mikki is a vote for the good of the students and staff,” Alvino said.
In addition to these testimonials, Cichocki has been endorsed by the San Bernardino Teachers Association and the Inland Empire Labor Council.
She’s also a strong advocate for parental involvement in schools.
“I believe that all members of the San Bernardino education community must to have their voices heard and that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus on actions to take,” Cichocki said.
Don English-Chaffey Joint Union HS District Board Member
Don Bridge- Chino Valley Unified School District Board Member
Bill Hedrick- RCC Board of Trustees President
Jose Alcala- RCC Board of Trustees Vice President
Dr. Cheryl Fischer
Carl Dameron
Ray Culberson
Angie Alvino
Tony Wilson
Tobin & Erin Brinker
Linda Morgan
Nancy Glenn
Stephanie Fletcher
Gerald and Cindy Parks
Jan Bridge
Marjorie Israel
Margaret Paul
Nicolas G. Perez
Pat Mazzuli
Jo Bonita Rains
Amir Alavi- Secretary CA Assoc. of Youth Courts
Linda Savage- Former SBCUSD Board Member
Virgina Marquez- Former Councilwoman
Barbara Kerr- Former CTA President
Barbara Pastuchek- SBTA Vice President
Nancy Banales
Nena Torres
Marc Pollitt
Catherine S. Daly
Brenda Chow
Jennifer Noel Kelly
Gigi Jackson
San Bernardino Teachers Association
Inland Empire Labor Council
San Bernardino Young Democrats
San Bernardino County Democratic Party
About Mikki Cichocki
Mikki Cichocki traces her interest in education to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. Raised here, she attended public schools until the 10th grade and graduated from Aquinas High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. She has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District since 1987. Recently, she retired from the Positive Youth Development department in the district, where she led the effort to work with at-risk students, helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. She also serves on the board of the California Association of Youth Courts and previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
Herb Fischer Former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Endorses Mikki Cichocki for SBCUSD Board.
“Mikki has a history of being focused on students and independent in her decisions and actions.,” said former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Herb Fischer.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.—As the five-person race for the open seat on the San Bernardino City Unified School District Board of Directors heats up, Mikki Cichocki is drawing endorsements from teachers, school administrators andstudents. They cite her caring leadership, independence, and intent to get input and feedback from all concerned stakeholders in Board deliberations and initiatives.
“Mikki is an experienced educator who has worked with students, teachers, administrators, parents and community members,” said retired San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Herb Fischer. “She has a history of being focused on students and independent in her decisions and actions.”
Cichocki said, “I want to give back to the community that raised me. I realized that I had the desire to serve as well as the experience in this district to understand what students and staff need and have experienced these past three years. We need a board that is focused on our students and their school experience.”
Cichocki is convinced that all members of the SBUSD must have their voices heard and that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus on actions to take.
Mikki Cichocki traces her interest in education to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. Raised here, she attended public schools until the 10th grade and graduated from Aquinas High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. She has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District since 1987. Recently, she retired from the Positive Youth Development department in the district, where she led the effort to work with at-risk students, helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. She also serves on the board of the California Association of Youth Courts and previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki
“Every student deserves a chance to succeed,” says San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. When Mikki Cichocki was leaving Starbucks recently, one of her former sixth-grade students called out to say, “Hello.” Cichocki was happy to learn that her former youth court student is now studying to be an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) at Crafton Hills College.
“I have always been drawn to help students in need,” said Cichocki. “There is not much that can compare to seeing ayoungster turn their life around and get on the road to graduation and a rewarding career. “
And that sums up why she is now running for the open Board position with the San Bernardino City Unified School District. “We really need to invest in every child because all children have potential, for some that potential is untapped. I want to make sure all children can grow and succeed.
“It is essential that we increase the resources devoted to providing student support. We need additional counseling services to meet the increased post-pandemic demand. We need to invest in expanding curriculum offerings like vocational, visual, and performing arts. You never know which student might turn out to be the next Steve Jobs, Awkwafina or Banksy, the next Denzel Washington or Jennifer Lopez. We just cannot predict that, so we must nurture each child to unlock their possible futures.”
Cichocki started Cal Poly Pomona as a business major and never expected to teach. But she soon changed her major to liberal arts, although still envisioning a business-related career. After graduation, she went to work for Xerox but then took a position as an instructional aide and substitute teacher. She loved it.
“When the district opened up a full-time teaching position, I applied and was selected to teach first-graders at Arrowhead Elementary,” said Cichocki. “I was hooked, I knew I had found my calling.”
The long list of those who have endorsed Mikki Cichocki for school board includes such notables as former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Herb Fischer, current Superintendent Theodore “Ted” Alejandre and former SBCUSD Board Member Lynda Savage, as well as the San Bernardino Teachers Association and the Inland Empire Labor Council.
Mikki Cichocki believes that all stakeholders need to have their voices heard. As a former active PTA member, she believes that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus.
Mikki Cichocki’s campaign manager is Patty Taylor, her treasurer is Don Taylor, and Dameron Communications provides advertising and public relations services. For more information on Mikki Cichocki’s campaign, visit her campaign’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Mikki4SBCUSD
-30-
About Mikki Cichocki
Mikki Cichocki traces her interest in education to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. Raised here, she attended public schools until the 10th grade and graduated from Aquinas High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. She has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District since 1988. Recently, she retired from the Positive Youth Development department in the district, where she led the effort to work with at-risk students, helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. She also serves on the board of the California Association of Youth Courts and previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
