Volume 5| March 2017
Department Spotlight -  Human Resources
The Human Resources (HR) Department( SCSOS) at The Sutter County Superintendent of Schools Office consists of six employees:  Wendy Bedard - Human Resources Director, Kathy Tamez - Credential Analyst/HR Assistant, Lark Sanchez - HR Assistant, Jenny Gibbs - Credentials/Substitute Services Assistant, and Leann Pinkston - HR Clerk a.k. Director of First Impressions.  

The goal of SCSOS Human Resources Department is to promote organizational success through service, support, and compliance.  They make it happen with a smile!  The goals for the Human Resources Department include:
  • Maintain compliance with the ever changing Affordable Care Act (ACA)
  • Successfully track and implement the Healthy Workplace/Healthy Families Act
  • Go paperless by implementing the Laserfiche system
  • Maintain compliance with AB 1918, Teacher Credentialing; Temporary Certificates
  • Find creative ways to recruit during this teacher shortage and other hard to fill positions
  • Continue to provide support to our county programs and school districts

SCSOS' Human Resources Department has many functions, the main functions are as follows:
  • Customer Service
  • Credentialing
  • Substitute Services
  • Recruitment and Selection
  • Benefits Management
  • Salary and Benefits
  • Policies and Procedures
  • Workers' Compensation
  • Database Management 
  • Support Services

The support services that SCSOS' Human Resources Department are vast and not limited to the following:

  • Maintain access and security of personnel files
  • Maintain seniority list and process layoffs when necessary
  • Conduct new employee orientations
  • Monitor evaluation timelines and due dates
  • Administer the Employee Recognition Program (service awards and employee appreciation day)
  • Serve as lead negotiator for union negotiations
  • Assist management staff with disciplinary procedures
  • Handle and investigate grievances and complaints
  • Process employee verification, unemployment claims, and disability claims
  • Manage the absence tracking and substitute calling system
  • Coordinate clinics for Hep A and B for employees
  • Establish and monitor employee on-line Safety Training's
  • Lead the Social Activities Committee and employee activities  


 
Kathy Tamez
Credential Analyst/HR Assistant
 

Q: If you could switch your job with anyone else within SCSOS, whose job would you want?

A: Chris McCormick:  She makes every day seem like fun!

Q: How long have you worked here?

A: I have worked for SCSOS for 8.5 years.  However, I have worked as a Credential Analyst for almost 20 years.  I worked for Yuba County prior to coming to Sutter County.  

Q: What do you like most about SCSOS?

A: I love the strong friendships in our organization.  Job titles do not dictate or restrict who can be friends.  

Q: What is your proudest moment at SCSOS?

A: My proudest moments, while working at SCSOS, are when educators that I have nurtured reach fruition with their dreams of teaching!  Knowing that my expertise, experience, and compassion had a part in their success makes me want to keep coming back.  
 
Q: If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would you like to see cast as you?

A: Mary Tyler Moore ... but it would probably be a better fit if Rosanne Barr took the role!   

Q: If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: Pizza.  

Q: What is your motto or personal mantra?

A: One day at a time.    

Q: What are three words to best describe you?

A: Outspoken, Loyal, Driven. 

Q: People would be surprised if they knew:

A: I love to run 5K's.  I am secretly insecure and I am a "Jesus Freak".

Q: What advice would you give to recent new hires?

A: Have a sense of humor and engage in opportunities to grow within our organization.  

Q: What book did you read last?

A: The Bible (on the daily) and the Magnolia Story.

Q: What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?

A: I enjoy serving others and encouraging others to dream in color.

Q: What did you want to be when growing up?

A:  An Architect or Physical Therapist.

Q: What is your favorite number and why?

A: 9 is my jersey number for all sports.  I even tried to convince my athletic daughters that 9 is a good jersey number.    

Q: What’s on your bucket list?

A: Driving Route 66 or Highway 1 on a  Harley Davidson motorcycle with a side car with my daughter Emilee (Who has Down Syndrome) as the passenger!  I can hear her laughing just thinking about it.  

Q: What traits define you?

A: Defender of the underdog, A stubborn team player, A list maker.

Q: What is the greatest challenge you have overcome so far?

A: Getting sober.  I have been sober for 9.5 years, the struggle is real on the daily.

Q: Name something you can’t live without.

A: Diet Coke!  

Q: What is your greatest fear?
A: Heights.

Q: What does true leadership mean to you?

A: A leader to me is one who supports, guides, and defends the growth of their own staff members.  When an employee feels appreciated and worthy, they excel without the expectation of rewards.  

Q: What would you go back and tell your 13-year-old self?

A: I promise, you will live through this.  

 
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