Dr. Jarrett Garife
Candidate for NMCUSD Board of Trustees, Area 4
Students First. Strong Schools. Accountable Leadership.
About Me
A Community Member Ready to Serve
I’m Dr. Jarrett Garife, a Castroville resident for the past seven years. I have more than ten years of experience working in public education and currently serve as Transportation Manager for the Monterey County Office of Education.
I hold a Ph.D. in Education Law, a Master of Public Administration from San José State University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from CSU Monterey Bay. I am also a graduate of the CASH School Facilities Leadership Academy.
My background includes school operations, budgeting, transportation, safety, compliance, facilities, and educational leadership. I also provide school transportation consulting outside of my regular employment.
Active in community service through the Castroville Midnighters, I live in the community I want to represent and have a personal investment in seeing our schools and community succeed.
Education & Experience
- Ph.D. in Education Law
- M.P.A., San José State University
- B.S. Business Administration & Management, CSU Monterey Bay
- CASH School Facilities Leadership Academy Graduate
- Transportation Manager, Monterey County Office of Education
- 10+ years in public education
- Experience in operations, budgeting, safety, compliance, facilities, and leadership
Why I’m Running
Strong Schools Require Strong Leadership
I believe NMCUSD has tremendous potential, but strong schools require strong leadership, trust, accountability, and collaboration.
I want to bring my educational background and practical experience in public education to the Board. Area 4 deserves an accessible representative who listens to students, families, employees, and community members.
I believe Board members should ask thoughtful questions, provide responsible oversight, and always keep students at the center of their decisions.
My Top Priorities
A Clear Vision for NMCUSD
These seven priorities guide my commitment to serving students, employees, families, and the wider community.
01.Students First
Every decision should ultimately be measured by how it benefits students. Provide high-quality educational opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, trades, and life after graduation.
02.Positive Work Culture
Build a district culture based on trust, dignity, respect, and collaboration. When employees feel valued and supported, they are better able to serve students.
03.Strong & Accountable Leadership
Promote leadership that communicates, listens, follows through, and treats people fairly. Establish clear expectations and accountability throughout the organization.
04.Strong Educational Programs
Protect and expand programs that provide meaningful opportunities. Support career technical education, college preparation, extracurricular activities, and other pathways that prepare students for their futures.
05.Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency
Make sure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and directly support the district’s educational mission. Provide strong Board oversight of budgets, contracts, facilities, and major expenditures.
06.Safe & Supportive Schools
Students and employees deserve schools where they feel physically and emotionally safe. Support appropriate staffing, training, facilities, transportation, and resources for safe learning environments.
07.Community Voice & Trust
Improve communication between the district and the communities it serves. Listen before making decisions, and rebuild trust through transparency, consistency, and accountability.
Get Involved
"I want to help build an NMCUSD where students come first, employees feel valued, leadership is accountable, families are heard, and our schools provide every student with the opportunities they need to succeed."
Email drgarifeforarea4@gmail.com for volunteer and phone banking opportunities.
Email: drgarifeforarea4@gmail.com
Paid for by Dr. Jarrett Garife for NMCUSD Board of Trustees, Area 4