Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez

This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.

Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez

Nonpartisan

Elections and appointments

Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

High school

Oakland High School

Associate

Laney College, 2019

Bachelor's

Holy Names University, 2021

Personal

Profession

Executive Director

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Campaign Instagram

Campaign TikTok

Personal YouTube

Personal LinkedIn

Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez ran for election to the Oakland Unified Board of Education to represent District 5 in California. She lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Ritzie-Hernandez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez graduated from Oakland High School. She earned an associate degree from Laney College in 2019 and a bachelor's degree from Holy Names University in 2021. Her career experience includes working as an executive director. She has been affiliated with the East Bay Young Democrats, Latine Young Democrats, Democratic Socialists of America, and the Harvey Milk Club.

Elections

2024

See also: Oakland Unified School District, California, elections (2024)

General election

General election for Oakland Unified Board of Education District 5

The ranked-choice voting election was won by Patrice Berry in round 1 .

		Candidate	%	Total Votes	Transfer	Round eliminated
		Patrice Berry	53.5	6,595	0	Won (1)
		Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez	46.5	5,731	0	1

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 12,326
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

2023

See also: Oakland Unified School District, California, elections (2023)

General election

General election for Oakland Unified Board of Education District 5

The ranked-choice voting election was won by Jorge Lerma in round 1 .

		Candidate	%	Total Votes	Transfer	Round eliminated
	Submit photo	Jorge Lerma	57.2	2,031	0	Won (1)
		Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez	42.8	1,521	0	1

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 3,552
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Endorsements

To view Ritzie-Hernandez's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Ritzie-Hernandez in this election.

To view Ritzie-Hernandez's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Ritzie-Hernandez in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Ritzie-Hernandez's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez, an Afro-Indigenous Mexican immigrant who has called Oakland home for over 20 years. As someone who has experienced the Oakland Public Schools system firsthand, I understand the profound impact that representation can have on educational outcomes. My journey began as an undocumented, monolingual Spanish-speaking student navigating the challenges of learning English as a second language. This personal experience has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of language access and family engagement in education.

In District 5, nearly 50% of students speak a language other than English at home, and as an Afro-Indigenous Latinx woman, I reflect the rich diversity of our community. My professional background includes roles as a family engagement specialist, community organizer, and currently, the Executive Director of Somos Familia. These roles have equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to build power within working-class communities and advocate for positive outcomes for our students and families.

As a school board member, I am committed to ensuring our schools remain open and properly funded, resisting the pressures of privatization. My dedication to protecting public education and advocating for equitable resources sets me apart. I am driven by a passion for social justice and a desire to create lasting change that benefits all residents of District 5.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Co-governance and Accountable Leadership: With over 20 years of experience in Oakland, including roles as a family engagement specialist, community organizer, and Executive Director of Somos Familia, I am deeply committed to co-governance and accountable leadership. My campaign prioritizes collaboration with families, students, and educators, ensuring that all voices are represented in decision-making processes. I will leverage my background to foster transparency and accountability, building trust within our community. My goal is to create an educational environment that reflects and meets the diverse needs of our district, promoting equity and inclusivity in all aspects of education.
• Academic Preparedness and Workforce Readiness: I am committed to ensuring that all students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for both academic success and future careers. Drawing from my experience as an educator and community advocate, I will prioritize programs that enhance critical thinking, digital literacy, and vocational training. By partnering with labor unions, local businesses and organizations, we can create internship and mentorship opportunities that provide real-world experience. My goal is to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in higher education and thrive in the evolving job market, ensuring a prosperous future for all.
• Responsible Budgeting with Fidelity to Public Schools: My campaign is committed to responsible budgeting that prioritizes the improvement and support of public schools. I understand the importance of allocating funds efficiently to benefit students, teachers, and staff. I will advocate for transparent financial practices, focusing on critical areas like classroom resources, teacher support, and infrastructure enhancements. I am committed to seeking additional funding for our district by leveraging county, state, and national resource pools, as well as building partnerships with philanthropic organizations. I support workers' right to strike and will prioritize good faith bargaining to avoid disrupting students' education.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am deeply passionate about family engagement in public policy. I believe that involving families in the educational process is crucial for student success. Effective family engagement fosters a supportive learning environment, encourages parental involvement, and strengthens the connection between schools and the community. By promoting policies that enhance communication and collaboration between families and educators, we can create a more inclusive and responsive educational system. My focus is on ensuring that all families, regardless of background, have a voice in their children's education, which is essential for improving school climate and academic outcomes.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I would recommend The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger to anyone interested in understanding my political philosophy. This novel explores themes of authenticity, alienation, and the struggle to protect innocence in a complex and often harsh world. The protagonist, Holden Caulfield, embodies a deep concern for the vulnerable and a desire to resist societal pressures and phoniness. Similarly, my political philosophy emphasizes protecting public goods like education, advocating for transparency and accountability, and resisting special interest groups that do not serve the public interest. Just as Holden seeks genuine connections and integrity, I believe in policies that prioritize the well-being and equitable treatment of all community members.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Setting and Overseeing Policies: Establishing policies that govern the OUSD's operations and ensuring they align with the educational goals and legal requirements. This includes setting academic standards, discipline policies, and resource allocation.

Budget Management: Overseeing OUSD's financial health by approving budgets, monitoring expenditures, and ensuring funds are allocated efficiently to support educational priorities.

Superintendent Oversight: Hiring, evaluating, and supporting the superintendent, who is responsible for implementing board policies and managing the day-to-day operations of the district.

Community Engagement: Acting as a liaison between the school district and the community, engaging with parents, teachers, students, and other stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns. This involves attending public meetings, listening to feedback, and communicating board decisions effectively.

Advocacy: Advocating for the district's needs at local, state, and federal levels, including seeking additional funding and support for educational initiatives.

Accountability and Transparency: Ensuring the district operates transparently and holds itself accountable to the public. This includes being transparent about decision-making processes and the district's performance.

What legacy would you like to leave?

The legacy I aspire to leave is one where family engagement is recognized as a crucial solution to bridging the academic achievement gap. I want to demonstrate that when families are actively involved in their children's education, it leads to better academic outcomes, stronger school communities, and more supportive learning environments. Additionally, I aim to establish robust workforce readiness programs that equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an ever-evolving job market. By focusing on both academic success and practical skills, I hope to create a legacy of empowerment and opportunity for all students, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

What principles drive your policies for safety in schools?

The principles driving my policies for safety in schools are rooted in creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students, staff, and faculty. These principles include:

Holistic Safety Approaches: Safety goes beyond physical security; it includes emotional and psychological well-being. This means addressing bullying, discrimination, and mental health issues comprehensively, ensuring all students feel safe and supported.

Community Involvement: Engaging the entire school community, including students, parents, teachers, and local organizations, in developing and implementing safety plans. Those closest to the issues often have the most valuable insights and solutions.

Equity and Inclusivity: Ensuring safety measures are inclusive and equitable, addressing the unique needs of all students, including those from marginalized communities. This includes providing resources and support for students with disabilities, LGBTQ+ students, and others who may face specific challenges.

Proactive and Preventive Measures: Emphasizing prevention through education and early intervention. This includes implementing programs on conflict resolution, mental health awareness, and digital safety, as well as training staff and students to recognize and respond to potential threats.

Transparency and Accountability: Maintaining transparent policies and procedures for addressing safety concerns. This includes clear communication with all stakeholders about safety measures, incidents, and the steps being taken to address them.

Collaboration with Restorative Justice Practitioners and Mental Health Professionals: Building partnerships with RJ practitioners and mental health professionals to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to school safety. This includes training for staff on how to handle emergencies and crises effectively.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Early Endorsements Include:

Oakland Education Association

LCAP

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I firmly believe in financial transparency and government accountability, especially in the context of public schools, which are among the few remaining public goods. It is essential for elected officials to prioritize the interests of their constituents over special interest groups or privatization agendas. Transparency in financial matters ensures that public funds are used effectively and equitably, benefiting all students and their families. It also fosters trust between the community and the school district, as constituents can see how their tax dollars are being spent and hold officials accountable for their decisions.

Accountability means that elected officials must be answerable to the public for their actions and decisions. They should operate with integrity, honesty, and a commitment to public service. This involves not only adhering to ethical standards but also being responsive to the community's needs and concerns. In a time when public education is under threat from various policy decisions, it is crucial to defend and strengthen our public schools, ensuring they remain accessible and beneficial to all students.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

2023

Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Ritzie-Hernandez's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez, an Afro-Indigenous Mexican immigrant who has lived in Oakland for more than 20 years. As someone with firsthand experience of Oakland Public Schools, I understand the importance of representation and how it can shape educational outcomes. That is why I am running for school board in District 5 - to ensure that our community's voice is heard and valued. My commitment lies with making decisions that benefit everyone rather than individuals; this involves deep family engagement and honest practices as a community organizer. With my background knowledge, passion for education equity, strong advocacy skillset, and dedication to social justice – I believe I have what it takes to make lasting change on behalf of District 5 residents.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Responsible Budgeting- I am committed to ensuring that our district is financially responsible and equitable. To achieve this goal, it is essential for us to take control of our finances and make sure the decisions made stay local. We must implement budgeting practices that prioritize student access to resources while also minimizing wasteful spending.
• Engaged School Communities - Engaged School Communities It is essential that we increase family engagement within our schools and deep increase community engagement at the district level. This can be done by ensuring each school site has an active School Site Council as mandated by California Education Code. Such councils should include full participation from principals, teachers, parents and students alike so that everyone’s voice can be heard on how best to improve student outcomes. Read less When families are engaged in meaningful ways inside a school's walls they become better advocates for their children.
• Accountable District Leadership - I will be a leader who is committed to making sure our schools are working in the best interests of its students and community. My leadership style will prioritize inclusive decision-making that listens to all voices and respects their input when it comes time for decisions about how resources should be allocated or which programs should receive funding. I understand that those closest to an issue often have the most insight into what works best, so their opinions must not only be welcomed but prioritized when creating education policies.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am personally passionate about public education policy that centers family engagement. Families are the first teachers of students and have a wealth of knowledge, skills, and experiences to bring to the educational setting. When schools create spaces for families to meaningfully engage in their student’s learning process it can be transformative for both parties involved. This type of engagement allows families to honor their own lived experiences while also gaining insight into how best support their student’s academic growth within school systems they may not fully understand or trust.

Creating spaces where families feel welcomed and respected is paramount when attempting meaningful family engagement in public education policy initiatives. Schools must strive towards creating an environment where all stakeholders feel safe, heard, valued and included regardless if they are parents/guardians or community members who don't have direct ties with a particular school but still wish to contribute positively from afar. By doing this we can truly foster belonging amongst our diverse communities which will ultimately lead us towards more equitable outcomes across all areas related public education policy initiatives such as curriculum development, special services programming etcetera .

In conclusion I believe effective family-school partnerships should be at the heart of any successful effort aiming toward transformational change within our current education system.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe I possess the qualities necessary to be a successful officeholder. My integrity is unwavering, and I strive to always uphold high ethical standards in my work. Additionally, I am culturally competent with experience working with diverse populations from around the world on an array of issues; this has given me insight into how different cultures interact and solve problems together. Furthermore, my ability to speak multiple languages fluently allows me to communicate effectively across linguistic barriers in order to build meaningful relationships between people regardless of language or background. As a community organizer for many years now, I have developed strong diplomatic skills that will help foster collaboration while navigating complex social dynamics within various communities and organizations alike.

What is the primary job of a school board member in your view?

In my view, the primary job of a school board member is to ensure that the educational needs of students are met in an equitable manner. This includes setting policies and regulations that promote quality education and provide resources for teachers, administrators, parents, and community members. A school board member should also be able to advocate for their district’s interests at both state and federal levels while working collaboratively with other stakeholders within the district's boundaries. Ultimately, it is up to a school board member to create an environment where students can thrive academically as well as socially so they can reach their full potential.

Who are your constituents?

As a School Board Director, my constituents are the students, families. and residents of District 5. My goal is to serve their needs by advocating for quality education opportunities, providing resources for student success, and working with other stakeholders in our community to ensure that all children have access to high-quality educational experiences. I will strive to be an active partner in creating a safe learning environment that provides equitable resources and supports each individual's academic growth.

How would you support the diverse needs of your district’s students, faculty, staff, and community?

As school board director, I would support diverse needs by engaging with stakeholders to identify and address gaps. This would involve hosting listening sessions with students, faculty, staff and community members to gain insight into their experiences within the school system. Through these conversations we can create solutions that are driven by those who are directly impacted. Additionally, I believe professional development should be provided for educators on how best to serve a diverse student population while also providing resources for families through community schools practices such as extended learning opportunities or family engagement initiatives.

In what areas would you like to expand curriculum? For example, do you see a need for advanced technical training or apprenticeships? What sort of innovative programming would you advance if given the opportunity?

If given the opportunity, I would like to expand curriculum in a number of areas. For example, bi-lingual learning and ethnic studies are important for students to become global citizens and understand different cultures. Additionally, union apprenticeships provide practical experience that can help prepare students for their future careers while also teaching them invaluable skills such as problem solving and communication. Furthermore, I believe more career pathways should be available so that each student can find an area they are passionate about or something they excel at outside of traditional academic subjects. Lastly, bridge programs between high school education and post secondary institutions could create a smoother transition into college life by giving students access to resources such as mentorship opportunities or specialized courses not typically offered in high school settings.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Oakland Teachers Union
Latinx Task Force

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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