County Board of Education

Email: nancy.hudson@lakecoe.org

Nancy Hudson, Board President, Trustee Area 4, Lakeport

I was born and raised in Lakeport, California. I graduated from Clear Lake High School in 1977 and spent some time at Sierra College.

In February of 1980, I took a job with the Lake County Office of Education and worked there until my retirement on August 1, 2018. Education became my career, and it is very dear to my heart. I am honored to serve on the Board of Education. In my retirement, I volunteer serving on the Certified Tourism Ambassador CORE committee, the Adult Literacy Board, and the Hartley Cemetery Board. For several years, I tutored at Lakeport Elementary School with the Schools of Hope program.

I enjoy walking, yoga, exercising at Shapes and riding my stationary bike. I spend time reading and staying up on current events. I like being involved in the community, supporting my church and our monthly food cupboard, and attending local events. Ms. Hudson was sworn into her position with the Lake County Board of Education in 2022 Term Expires: 2026

Email: itziaperez-rico@lakecoe.org

Itzia Rico, Board Vice President, Trustee Area 5, Kelseyville

Itzia Rico is a long-time Lake County resident and business owner. Rico is the proud owner of Studebakers Coffee House and Deli in downtown Kelseyville. As a mother of five, with four of her children in the Kelseyville Unified School system, she is committed to supporting Lake County schools and students. Whether it be coaching volleyball or basketball, or volunteering in the classroom, Rico is determined to put students first and knows how important it is for them to succeed. As a Board member, Rico is committed to working with others for the success of all students. Ms. Rico was sworn into her position with the Lake County Board of Education on June 14, 2023.  Term Expires: 2028

Email: aqeela.el-amin@lakecoe.org

Aqeela J. El-Amin Bakheit, Trustee Area 1, Middletown

I earned my Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Keiser University Graduate School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 2010. I am currently a candidate for a Doctorate in Criminal Justice, expected in 2025, also from Keiser University Graduate School.

I have been actively involved in my community for many years. I have been a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) since 2002, where I have held several leadership positions. I have also served on the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission since 2015 and have been a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) since 2015.

I am a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success at Keiser University Graduate School, which I joined in 2022. Additionally, I am the Lake County Chapter President of the Retired Public Employees Association as of 2024. In my personal life, I enjoy public speaking engagements at local venues. I have also hosted the radio program "Women's Voices" on kpfz.org every Thursday morning at 9:00 A.M. since 2015.

My goal as a board member is to fully engage in the board's duties and principles, supporting its mission and directives with deliberate clarity. Term Expires: 2028

Email: jeff.smart@lakecoe.org

Jeff Smart, Trustee Area 2, Clearlake

My Name is Jeff Smart. I have grown up and lived in Lake county for the large majority of my
life. I am a graduate of Lower Lake High School. My wife and I have been married for 26 years
and we have two grown children. I have worked for the same company for almost 20 years
where I am a manager. I hold multiple certificates and certifications in my industry. My wife and I also own a small business. We are 3rd generation business owners. Over the years I have
volunteered in several different capacities. I volunteered in Little League for many years. I also
volunteered a few years with the Cub Scouts and many other minor roles. I am a
Lakeshore Lions and Moose member. My wife and I love the outdoors, camping, boating and
being around friends and family. My goal as a board member is to support my community's
needs. Term Expires: 2028

Email: denise.loustalot@lakecoe.org

Denise Loustalot, Trustee Area 3, Northshore

Denise Loustalot has been a Lake County resident for 37 years, and is a graduate of Lower Lake High School. She and her husband, Pete, Have a blended family of five children. She is a 3rd generation Family Small Business Owner. Ms. Loustalot has a long history of dedicated community and public service. She is the former Mayor and City Councilwoman for Clearlake. She was the President of the Clearlake Chamber of Commerce, and served on numerous other Councils and Board of Directors. She is an active member with the Rotary and Soroptimists. Ms. Loustalot was sworn into her position with the Lake County Board of Education in 2018. Term Expires: 2026