Sonoma County Office of Education

Employee Spotlight: Kenna Kitamura

09/27/2022 - Kenna_Kitamura

Name:
Kenna Kitamura

Years at SCOE:
4 years

Job Title:
Program Specialist Technician II

How do you describe your job to people outside SCOE?
Program support for credential programs. We have eight different programs at NCSOE supporting permit holders, teachers, and school administrators in earning their credentials. I do a little of everything from being on our communications team to invoicing students, processing enrollments, and more.

Where did you grow up?
Central Valley

Who was your favorite childhood teacher and why?
Mrs. Harper. She was my teacher throughout middle school at a very small K-8. To this day one of the kindest and hardworking people I have ever met and she did EVERYTHING. She was the principal, teacher, yard duty monitor, and more. She taught everything from government to sex education to Bible study. She is the kind of person you think must be Wonder Woman to accomplish it all.

What has surprised you so far about SCOE?
How kind and helpful everyone is. I am really lucky to have such amazing colleagues in NCSOE. I know I can depend on them for support, laughs, and really great potlucks!

Outside of work, what is your favorite hobby or way to unwind?
I’ve always been an avid reader, love to garden, and in the last year I’ve picked up knitting. I make a mean salsa and chile verde from the veggies I’ve grown!

Do you have a favorite TV show, movie or book that involves a school setting?
The Secret History by Donna Tartt was a favorite of mine in college. It's a dark academia murder mystery following classics students at a small college in Vermont. If you like mystery and classical era history it's a great read!

What is your favorite place in Sonoma County?
Downtown Santa Rosa. I lived within walking distance when I first moved here and spent a lot of time window shopping, enjoying the outdoor dining, and exploring the surrounding eclectic neighborhoods. I also really like Spring Lake for its scenic footpaths.

What might people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a fraternal twin. My twin brother and I share the same initials (KNK), a love of coffee, and we tower over our 5’2 mom.