Faculty Rep Profile

Kathy Borris

Kathy grew up in a small town south of Santa Maria, on the central coast. She attended Cal State Hayward (now CSU East Bay) and majored in Art. One of Kathy's college classes required time spent in local classrooms teaching art to elementary students; she later received her teaching credential from Hayward, intending to teach art.

She and her husband, Chris Borris, attended the credential program together and moved to Shasta County after graduation. There, in 1975, Kathy and Chris were hired to run a rural, three-room school east of Redding. Chris was superintendent, principal and taught grades 4-8; Kathy taught grades K-3 for a combined salary of $15,000. They wore many hats, including musical producers, where Chris would direct the students and Kathy provided musical accompaniment on the piano. In a school of less than 120 students, there was no union, no salary schedule, and no tenure.

Over the next 10 years, Kathy took two maternity leaves and continued teaching art and music once a week. Soon after, the Borris' said goodbye to their small school and moved to Orangevale to be closer to their families. After teaching first grade for two years at Howe Avenue Elementary School, Kathy transferred to Carriage Elementary School where she has taught kindergarten and been an SJTA representative off and on for 18 years. Sharing the position with another teacher and a supportive staff has made it possible to continue for so many years.

Working as an SJTA representative keeps Kathy informed about changes throughout the district; being involved in the profession outside of the classroom has been rewarding. “I've learned it takes many small steps to create a positive, collaborative and healthy work environment for us. It's also important for people to be informed about political decisions statewide and local affecting them daily in the classroom. She has served on Site Council, BTSA, and Principals Survey Committee.

Currently, Kathy enjoys spending time with her family, being a new grandparent and traveling with her husband who is now retired from SJUSD. Kathy's daughter carried on the family tradition and teaches at Bella Vista High School.

The San Juan Teachers Association salutes Kathy for a job well done!