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A Message from Andrew Gardner
I am incredibly grateful and honored to join the Mountain Oaks community as your new School Administrator. Having spent my career serving students, families, and educators throughout the foothills, it feels especially meaningful to continue that work in a community that values family, flexibility, independence, and student-centered learning.
For more than 20 years, I have had the privilege of working in public education in a variety of roles, including as a teacher, principal, district Career and Technical Education Director, and most recently as the Executive Director of Amador College Connect. Throughout each of these experiences, one thing has remained constant: I believe every student deserves to be known, supported, challenged, and given meaningful opportunities to succeed.
What excites me most about Mountain Oaks is the opportunity to serve students and families whose educational journeys may look different from the traditional school experience. Independent study and homeschooling require trust, partnership, creativity, and a deep commitment to meeting students where they are. I look forward to listening and learning from our families, supporting our incredible staff, and helping ensure that every Mountain Oaks student has the opportunity to thrive.
I feel very fortunate to continue serving the students and families of our foothill communities. I am thankful for the warm welcome I have already received and excited about the relationships, experiences, and opportunities that lie ahead.
I look forward to being part of this community!

Dear Mountain Oaks Families,

I have accepted a new career opportunity as a Program Manager/Specialist with the Calaveras County SELPA, dedicated to the Adult Transition Program. While I am excited for this next step, it is bitter-sweet leaving Mountain Oaks after six wonderful years.

Please rest assured that I will remain in my role as Assistant Administrator until the position is officially filled, ensuring continuous administrative support and a seamless transition for our school.

Thank you all for the incredible memories, partnership, and support over the years; it has been a privilege being part of the Mountain Oaks community.


Eric Carlson

Assistant Administrator

Dear Mountain Oaks School Families,
We are writing to share that Mountain Oaks School Administrator Kathleen Lewis has informed us of her decision to resign from her position and will not be returning for the 2026–2027 school year. While we are saddened by her departure, we respect her decision and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.
On behalf of the Mountain Oaks School Board and the Calaveras County Office of Education, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Kathleen for her many years of dedicated service. Throughout her time as a mentor teacher, assistant administrator, and administrator, she has positively impacted the lives of countless students and families. Her commitment to personalized learning, student success, and the growth of Mountain Oaks School has left a lasting legacy.
We recognize that leadership transitions can create uncertainty, and we want to assure families that our highest priority is maintaining the strong educational program, supportive school culture, and individualized services that Mountain Oaks students and families value.
The position of Administrator will be posted immediately and remain open for two weeks. Following the application period, a thorough interview process will be conducted to identify a highly qualified leader who reflects the mission and values of Mountain Oaks School. Our goal is to select an individual who will continue to build upon the school's strengths and support the success of every student. If additional time is needed to identify the right candidate, we will continue the search until we find the best possible fit for our school community.
In the meantime, the Calaveras County Office of Education will provide administrative support and oversight to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. Families can be confident that school operations, student services, and educational programming will continue without interruption as we prepare for the upcoming school year.
Mountain Oaks School has always been defined by the strength of its students, families, teachers, and staff. We are committed to supporting our school community throughout this transition and will keep you informed as the search process progresses.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Mountain Oaks School.
Sincerely,
David Rose, Mountain Oaks School Board President
Jared Hungerford, Calaveras County Superintendent of Schools

Posted 7/10/26

Please click article title to review the Mountain Oaks Cell Phone Policy. Posted 10/3/25

Dear Mountain Oaks Community Members,

We have recently installed vape sensors in the All Gender Restrooms and the Student Restrooms in the gym hallway. These sensors will alert staff when anyone is smoking or vaping in these restrooms. Anyone who is seen leaving the restrooms after the vape alert (cameras are in the hallways) can face investigation and potentially discipline.

Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns regarding the vape sensors.

Thank you, Kathleen Lewis, Administrator