(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — When a parent is confused about enrollment, unsure who to call, or trying to make sense of a district announcement, Jake Finch is often the one who steps in—online or in person—with answers, empathy, and calm. As the Simi Valley Unified School District’s Public Information Officer, she’s become a trusted bridge between the district and its families. This year, the Simi Valley Education Foundation is recognizing Finch with a Lew Roth Award for going above and beyond to make every family feel seen, heard, and supported.
Finch is one of seven individuals and one organization being honored at the 2024–2025 Lew Roth Awards reception, hosted by the Simi Valley Education Foundation. The community is invited to attend the celebration on Monday, April 28 at 5 p.m. at Strathearn Historical Park. Tickets are $35 and available at www.svef.org.
Meet the 2024–2025 Lew Roth Award Recipients
This year’s honorees are:
- Jennifer Conmay, Wood Ranch Elementary — Management
Conmay, principal of Wood Ranch Elementary, is known for leading with warmth, integrity, and vision. Her colleagues describe her as someone who “leads with heart,” always ready to support staff, students, and families. Under her leadership, the school has flourished as a strong, supportive environment where children are empowered to grow and succeed. - John Downey, Royal High School — Certificated
Downey is a respected English teacher and mentor who brings thoughtfulness and rigor to the classroom. He has helped shape Royal High School’s academic culture through both his teaching and his work as an instructional leader. According to the Foundation, Downey is known for creating spaces where students feel both challenged and supported. - Jake Finch and Janice Osborne, SVUSD — Classified
Finch is widely recognized for her responsiveness and kindness in helping families navigate everything from school enrollment to day-to-day questions. Whether online or in person, she brings clarity, connection, and calm to complex situations.
Osborne, a Senior Administrative Assistant, is the kind of colleague who never lets anyone down. Her behind-the-scenes work includes supporting students facing homelessness and families navigating significant challenges. She brings warmth and resolve to every task and is known for her steadfast commitment to equity and access. - Colleen Conklin, Arroyo Elementary — Special Education
Conklin supports students in Arroyo Elementary’s special education program with empathy and individualized care. She tailors her teaching to meet each student’s needs while fostering a sense of connection and belonging. Her approachable nature and dedication help students feel seen and supported every day. - Laurie Hoffman, Santa Susana High School — Volunteer
Hoffman has become a fixture at Santa Susana High School thanks to her tireless volunteer work. Whether she’s organizing events, assisting staff, or helping the school’s performing arts program run smoothly, Hoffman brings reliability, energy, and genuine care to everything she does. According to the Foundation, she’s the kind of volunteer who never seeks recognition—only results. - Mary Carol Sorrells — Lifetime Achievement
Sorrells has served as a school nurse in the Simi Valley Unified School District for 24 years, consistently providing exceptional care across multiple campuses. Her combination of skill, compassion, and professionalism has made her indispensable. She’s known for coordinating care seamlessly and creating a sense of safety and support for students, staff, and families alike. - The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute — Community Partner
For more than 15 years, the Foundation has partnered with Royal High School to create and sustain the Ronald Reagan Citizen Scholar Institute—an initiative that encourages civic leadership and community service among students. Through leadership programs, field trips, and educational support, the Foundation has helped SVUSD students engage meaningfully with their communities and envision their own impact on the world. This year, the Reagan Foundation expanded its impact with the launch of the Ronald Reagan Academy of Communication & Leadership at Sinaloa Middle School. The new program introduces students to leadership, debate, broadcasting, and civics through specialized courses and hands-on experiences in partnership with Reagan Foundation staff—extending a strong educational pathway that continues through Royal High School.
Each recipient learned of their award through a surprise visit from members of the Simi Valley Education Foundation’s board.
Strong schools benefit everyone. Parents want the best education for their children. Local businesses need a skilled, thoughtful workforce. Homeowners see stronger property values in communities with excellent schools. And students themselves deserve every opportunity to succeed in a changing world.
The Simi Valley Education Foundation exists to help make that possible. Since its founding in 1990 by longtime school board trustee Lew Roth, the Foundation has raised and distributed more than $2.5 million in support of Simi Valley’s public schools. From technology and library books to arts programs and teacher grants, the Foundation ensures that schools have what they need—even when budgets fall short.
Simi Valley Unified School District is one of Ventura County’s largest, serving more than 15,000 students across 28 school sites. It offers a wide range of programs to meet diverse student needs—starting with special education preschool at Justin Early Learners Academy and continuing through 18 elementary schools, three middle schools, and four high schools.
The district also supports alternative learning paths, including a homeschool/independent study program through Monte Vista School and adult education and career training at the Simi Institute for Careers & Education. Its size is a strength, allowing for personalized programs and opportunities that reflect the city’s commitment to educational excellence.
The Foundation’s support is made possible through ongoing fundraising and active partnerships with parents, educators, and local businesses. Events like the Celebration of Education Gala, Tee Up for Kidz Golf Tournament, E-Waste Recycling Days, and Cycling for Education not only raise funds but strengthen community bonds. Each effort, large or small, helps build a stronger, more connected future for Simi Valley’s students.
The Foundation invites all community members to get involved—whether through donations, volunteering, or becoming a member. Membership supports the Foundation’s ability to offer grants, scholarships, and vital educational resources across the district.
To purchase tickets to the Lew Roth Awards or to learn more about becoming a member, visit www.svef.org.
