03/26/2018 -
Name:
Erica Anderson
Years at SCOE:
5.5
Job Title:
Legal Secretary
How do you describe your job to people outside SCOE?
SCLS is a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) that is part of the county office—a not for profit entity providing legal services to school districts, assisting clients with issues that come up, and preventative law as well. I support a variety of attorneys in their role providing legal services to school districts, community colleges, and County Offices of Education.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Riverside County on a 160-acre horse farm. I lived there, in the country, until I moved to Santa Rosa two days before my freshman year of high school!
Who was your favorite childhood teacher and why?
Probably Mr. Karlin. I went to a small private school and had him for fourth and seventh grade. He was very engaging and he had a very good sense of humor. He made learning fun and I still remember him. He also worked at the mortuary as a side job and did makeup there, so around Halloween, he had the coolest costume makeup.
What is your favorite thing about working for SCOE/SCLS?
My colleagues are so nice—people you don’t even know are friendly and say hi in the hall. The work I do is rewarding. It’s nice to be able to help people. Workshop attendees are so grateful for the handouts provided at our various workshops.
What is one of your most memorable moments as a SCOE employee?
How everyone banded together after the fires. I lost my home during the fire, and everyone was so helpful and supportive —from my department to the SCOE Leadership Team. I am truly blessed to work with such a great group of people.
Outside of work, what is your favorite hobby or way to unwind?
I like to go fishing with my boyfriend. Mostly we do ocean fishing for shark and stingrays. I’m also a big Giants fan, I go to spring training every year and as many games as I can. I also like to travel. Over Christmas, I went to Australia, went fishing and got to explore the beautiful country there and even hold a baby kangaroo!
What is your favorite place in Sonoma County?
Tomales Bay/Inverness - where we go shark fishing. It’s a place to unwind and relax. I like Bodega too, wish the beaches here were warmer.
What is one thing that might surprise people to learn about you?
I worked for the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) prior to SCOE/SCLS. Most people don’t even know this agency exists! CHRB did occupational licenses for people involved in horse racing – owners, trainers, jockeys, even grooms. One summer I worked at all of the different fairs that host horse racing around the Bay Area--including Sonoma County.
