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Safe and Respectful School Culture: The Role of the Education Code in the Northern California Conference
Safe and Respectful School Culture: The Role of the Education Code in the Northern California Conference 5142 3428 Ken Miller

By Laurie Trujillo, CFRE
NCC Director of Communication and Development

Over the past few months, we have highlighted how our ministries work to fulfill the Northern California Conference’s purpose of connecting people to a more abundant life with Jesus and preparing for the Second Coming. This month, we asked: How does our school system achieve this mission? The answer was found in an unexpected place—the Pacific Union Conference Education Code.

What is the Education Code?

The Pacific Union Conference Education Code, adopted by the Northern California Conference, is more than a manual of operational policies—it’s a spirit-led, values-based framework designed to foster safe, nurturing, and spiritually grounded learning environments. Rooted in biblical principles, it governs every aspect of our school operations, including staffing, curriculum, financial stewardship, professional conduct, and student safety.

Ellen G. White once wrote, “True education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study… It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man” (Education, p. 13). This holistic vision is reflected in the Education Code’s dual focus: protecting students and honoring educators.

Albert Miller, Superintendent of Schools for the Northern California Conference (NCC), explains, “We’re not just filling classrooms. We’re calling people to a ministry. Our educators are spiritually grounded and professionally equipped—trained not only to teach, but to mentor students into thoughtful, Christ-centered lives.”

How Does the Education Code Protect the Children in Our Care?

It affirms student well-being through a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, aligning with NCC policy that requires immediate reporting of any suspected child abuse or neglect. Comprehensive screening and training—including background checks and abuse prevention certifications—are mandated for all school personnel by NCC policy and supported by the Code.

To further safeguard students, schools must conduct regular safety audits, maintain effective emergency protocols, and create environments where students feel emotionally and physically secure. Grounded in Christian compassion, NCC holds all staff to the highest standards of integrity and respectful interaction. Confidential and accessible reporting mechanisms for students and their families ensure that every voice is heard, and every concern is taken seriously.

“Safety goes beyond compliance,” Miller says. “While we meet all of California’s legal requirements for working with children, for us, it’s more than legal—it’s deeply moral. We want every child to feel safe, seen, and loved.”

How Does the Code Uphold the Dignity of Employees?

It safeguards the dignity of those called to teach. Investigations involving staff must be conducted in a confidential, fair, and impartial manner. Employees are guaranteed due process, including the right to respond, access support, and receive updates.

Its goal is to foster a professional culture of trust, transparency, and growth, emphasizing respectful communication and restorative practices. “We don’t rush to judgment or jump to conclusions,” Miller explains. “Clear expectations matter, but so does restoration.”

How Impactful Are These Policies and Practices?

In today’s complex world, NCC’s adoption of the Pacific Union Conference Education Code serves as both a shield and a compass, protecting the vulnerable and guiding educators in their sacred mission.

Recently, a student sent us a letter: “I didn’t grow up Adventist and struggled in public school, never seeing much purpose in learning. That changed when I enrolled in an Adventist school near our new home. Expecting the same thing, I was surprised to be met with compassion, patience, and a teacher who helped me discover both Jesus and a love for learning. For the first time, I cared about school, found subjects I enjoyed, and began dreaming about the future with Jesus in my life. Even with severe ADHD, I feel accepted and respected. I look forward to attending the academy near my home.”

With 31 schools, more than 2,000 students, and over 200 educators, NCC’s education system is the longest-running evangelistic effort in our territory. In 2024, school-age children and youth accounted for 18% of all NCC baptisms.

“Adventist education is more than academics,” Miller concludes. “It’s about shaping lives—one heart, one mind at a time—for this life and the life to come.”

Featured in Northern Lights, June 5, 2025
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Jaymes Cheney New Treasurer of NCC
Jaymes Cheney New Treasurer of NCC 1024 683 Ken Miller

Called to Serve: A Journey of Faith, Family, and Financial Leadership
By Laurie Trujillo

Some careers are built on opportunity. Others are shaped by calling. For Jaymes Cheney, it has been both. On May 7, the Conference Executive Committee elected Cheney as the next Northern California Conference Treasurer.

Born in Portland, Oregon, at what is now Adventist Health Portland, Jaymes grew up in Ridgefield, Washington. His parents modeled lifelong service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church—his mother, Carla, was a middle school teacher for 34 years at Meadow Glade Elementary School in Battle Ground, and his father, Leon, worked his entire career in plant services at Adventist Health Portland.

Jaymes married Brittany (Collins) Cheney, an attorney. Her parents, John and Rosemary Collins, served in education at Modesto Adventist Academy, Rio Lindo Academy, and Pacific Union College. Today, their children, William and Hannah, continue the family legacy at Sacramento Adventist Academy.

Northern California holds a special place in Cheney’s heart. His grandparents, Dr. Erwin and Wilda Walla, lived in Napa, where his mother and aunts were raised. He has fond memories of family road trips to visit them, summer days, holidays, and even attending his first baseball game in Oakland with his grandfather. These connections influenced his decision to attend Pacific Union College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and met Brittany.

After graduating from PUC, Jaymes joined Adventist Health in Roseville. Over the past 19 years, he has served in various financial leadership roles across Northern California, including at Adventist Health Feather River and St. Helena. He earned his CPA license and completed an MBA at UC Davis in 2015. Most recently, he helped lead system-wide accounting from the corporate office in Roseville.

Jaymes began sensing God’s call toward church service. That call became clearer as he has served on the Sacramento Adventist Academy Board and as an elder and deacon at Carmichael Church. He prayerfully stepped forward when he learned of John Rasmussen’s retirement from the Northern California Conference.

“This role brings together my passion for leadership, finance, education, and mission,” he said. “Stewardship is not just accounting—it’s ministry in action. Churches, schools, and ministries are only as strong as the people who invest in them,” he said. “Leadership is about trust and stewarding what God has placed in our hands—resources, relationships, and responsibilities.”

As a CPA and financial professional, Jaymes understands that numbers tell a story. Beyond balance sheets are stories of students, families, and church members whose lives are touched by ministry. That excites him—building financial clarity so leaders can focus on their mission. His philosophy is simple: everything belongs to God. Tithes, offerings, and talents are sacred. “When resources are managed wisely, God multiplies. When we give freely, God blesses us with abundance. And when we lead with integrity, God is honored.”

One of his favorite Bible verses, which took on special meaning for his family, is Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

When he starts on June 30, Cheney is eager to visit NCC churches and schools, listen to their stories, and build strong relationships. “Northern California is home,” he said. We’ve planted roots here, and I look forward to serving alongside our communities as we connect people to an abundant life in Jesus and prepare for His soon return.”

Featured in Northern Lights, May 12, 2025
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Donate to the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund
Donate to the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund 4800 2700 Ken Miller
The Northern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (NCC) has established the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund to provide a trusted avenue for support. This fund is dedicated to directly supporting the students, families, and staff of Feather River Adventist School, all of whom have been deeply impacted by this senseless and violent act.
In alignment with our values and ethical stewardship, we want to clarify that this fund supports the entire Feather River Adventist School community, not just two specific families. If you wish to restrict your support to Elias Wolford or Roman Mendez and their families, you may indicate this in the check memo line or the notes section of the online giving form. Because NCC is a conduit for support, ensuring that 100% of the contribution benefits those affected, gifts are not tax-deductible.
Please visit the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund Giving Link to contribute.  Or send your contributions to Northern California Conference, C/O Feather River School Support, 2100 Douglas Blvd, Roseville, CA 95661. If you have questions, you can email our Director of Communication and Development, laurie.trujillo@nccsda.com. Your support will play a vital role in helping our community heal and rebuild.

Click here to support.

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Danny Kwon Joins Administrative Team as HR Director
Danny Kwon Joins Administrative Team as HR Director 1399 1028 Ken Miller

Danny Kwon recently joined the NCC administrative offices as the Director of Human Resources, bringing a wealth of expertise that strengthens both the HR department and the broader mission of the NCC.

With experience in human resources, payroll, and employee relations, Kwon’s leadership plays a crucial role in enhancing our organization’s efficiency, employee engagement, and overall workplace culture. His previous accomplishments, including spearheading health ministry initiatives and organizing national dental and medical clinics, reflect his deep commitment to service and ability to manage complex, large-scale projects.

Kwon has a background in legal and humanitarian efforts. Growing up in Manitoba, where he earned his law degree from the University of Manitoba, he has actively advocated for underserved communities. His involvement with medical and dental outreach programs continues to support many within our territory. Additionally, Kwon’s pro bono work assisting refugees and preparing asylum applications through immigration services showcases his passion for justice and compassion.

His appointment strengthens the HR department by integrating his legal expertise and a unique understanding of community needs. This dual perspective enables him to address employee relations with a balance of empathy, legal compliance, and practical solutions. Under his direction, the HR function will better serve the diverse needs of the NCC’s employees, furthering our ability to attract, retain, and nurture talent within a mission-driven framework.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the challenges ahead, Kwon shared a favorite passage, Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” He trusts that God will guide his service to the NCC, aligning his efforts with divine purpose and strength.

Jose Marin, executive secretary, praised Kwon’s diverse skill set, stating, “Danny brings a wealth of experience to his role as HR Director. His knowledge of California law and his entrepreneurial spirit in founding community service ministries will be a blessing to our employees and entities in Northern California.”

President Marc Woodson echoed these sentiments, remarking, “We are thrilled to welcome Danny Kwon to our office family. His extensive HR experience and legal background make him an invaluable asset to our conference, and we look forward to the positive impact he will bring.”

Kwon shares his life with Lisa, his wife of 18 years, and together, they lovingly raise their three children. Ava and Aaron attend Pine Hills Academy, while Jonah is in the 6th grade at Orangevale Elementary.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 26, 2024

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Dudley Galusha Passes to His Rest
Dudley Galusha Passes to His Rest 696 928 Ken Miller

We regret to announce that Dudley Galusha, a member of The Haven church, passed away peacefully on June 6.

Galusha will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, country, and church. His legacy is inspiring, having contracted the building of numerous institutions in Northern California and beyond. He built schools such as Clearlake School, Foothills Elementary School, Humboldt Bay School, and Rio Lindo Academy. He also constructed churches in our territory, including Cloverdale, Fort Bragg, Meadow Vista, Napa, Pacific Union College, Pleasant Hill, and The Haven. Moreover, he constructed Leoni Meadows, Newton Hall (PUC), and Redwood Creek Camp. His influence even reached international shores with constructing the Frogmouth Chapel in Cooroy, Queensland, Australia.

Vince Saunders, pastor at The Haven, expressed, “Throughout his life, Dudley had a tremendously positive influence within our church and community. Even now, his legacy of support for education and church ministry continues through his family as they rebuild our school. He will be greatly missed, and the reunion in Heaven will be exhilarating!”

His daughter Cynthia wrote, “His long life was very full, and he leaves a lengthy & outstanding legacy in the field of construction in Northern California. His mental sharpness and dry wit remained intact to the very end of his 98 years on earth.”

A celebration of life will be held on July 27, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. at The Haven SDA Church,15 Woodland Rd., Saint Helena, CA. In place of flowers, the family has requested any gifts be sent to the following:

Cookson Ranch Foundation (Redwood Creek)

P.O. Box 973, Blue Lake, CA 95525

Friends of Foothills School

711 Sunnyside Rd., St. Helena, CA 94574

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A Service Journey
A Service Journey 3834 2197 Ken Miller

Sixty-nine NCC educators and pastors, each boasting 25 years or more in service, were honored during the recent Mark Blue Lecture Series.

Each recipient was presented with a distinguished service pin commemorating their unwavering commitment to ministry.

Reflecting on this remarkable milestone, Jose Marin, NCC Executive Secretary, remarked, “We are privileged to celebrate the remarkable dedication of our pastors, teachers, and principals who have devoted their careers to serving Jesus within the Northern California Conference.”

25 Years of Service

Melbert Baga, Owen Bandy, Shawn Brummund, Jaime Calvo, David Carreon, Heather Denton, Jason Eyer, John Gilley, Robert Kurtz, Linda Lamb, Janice Leigh, Donald Mackintosh, JoAnn Moon, Lisa Nuss, Ira Parrish, Ricardo Rincon, Michael Rosich, Michael Thompson, Aubrey Scarbrough, Darren Smith, Susan Walters. James Wood Jr., Glen Wahlman

30 Years of Service

Tania Duncan, Tonya Greenwood, David Goymer, Vernon Jeske, Timothy Judson, Robert Kearbey, Hyun Kim, Esther Melgar, Guadalupe Negrete, Jerry Nelson, Lyly Nguyen, J Williams, Gerald Speyer, Tamara Turk, Cheryl Wood,

35 years of Service

Thomas Adams, Edwin Brown, Frederick Dana, Bradley Davis, Kris Dunlap, Walter Groff, George Hilton, Carole LeBarre, John Linhares, Richard Maloon, Robert Mason, Albert Miller, Richard Nelson, Robert Robinson

40 years of Service

Douglas Brown, Daniel Freedman, George Jackson, Nancy Matthews, Lisa Paulson, David Peckham, James Pedersen, Dorothy Phelps, Mason Philpot, Ronald Pickell, Larry Unterseher, David Vixie, Marvin Wray, Bruce Yingling

Data from the NCC Secretariat

Featured in Northern Lights, April 11, 2024
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Uniting Teachers, Pastors, and Principals for Mission-driven Collaboration
Uniting Teachers, Pastors, and Principals for Mission-driven Collaboration 2000 1125 Ken Miller

NCC is committed to supporting our entities in becoming relevant to their communities, mission-driven, and organizationally healthy. One of the key foundations to achieving this is cultivating trust, which is essential to our collaborative efforts. It empowers us to fulfill our mission with integrity and effectiveness.

The NCC wishes to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence through initiatives such as the Mark Blue Series. This annual event brings together teachers, pastors, and principals in a unique effort to coordinate ministry and promote collaboration. It serves as a rallying point for our team, uniting us with a singular purpose of connecting people to an abundant life with Jesus Christ and preparing them for His Second Coming.

This year’s Mark Blue Series was particularly impactful. It introduced a practical productivity tool, the Working Genius. Rooted in harnessing personal work styles to build trust and enhance teamwork, the Working Genius framework gave our attendees invaluable insights into effective planning processes and collaborative leadership development.

With over 200 individuals in attendance, the event served as a dynamic platform for learning and growth. Participants delved into strategies for creating and managing leadership teams, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, effective change management, and organizational alignment at the local level.

At its core, the NCC believes in the power of unity—a shared commitment to rowing in the same direction toward our collective mission. By equipping our members and employees with the tools and resources needed to be engaged and enthusiastic ambassadors for spreading the good news of Jesus Christ, we are cultivating a culture of purpose-driven excellence within our organization.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 11, 2024
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Peggy Haines Joins NCC Offices
Peggy Haines Joins NCC Offices 1855 2460 Ken Miller

Peggy Haines recently joined the NCC Administration office as the new conference clerk and administrative assistant for the risk management department.

Haines recently moved to Roseville from Loma Linda, where she worked at the University Health Department for the last seven years. She explained, “I wanted to be closer to my daughter and two grandsons.”

Haines continued, “I love my new job; it is my way of giving back to God’s work. My parents sacrificed to put my siblings and me through Adventist education, and I wanted to be a part of this mission.”

Featured in Northern Lights, October 26, 2023
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Mulching Mission Movement
Mulching Mission Movement 2000 1125 Ken Miller

October 10- It was all hands on deck as the NCC administration offices locked the doors and workers descended on Maidu Park in Roseville for the annual community service day.

In 2022, workers spread sixty yards of forest mulch at another Roseville park. This year, 300 yards were piled around the new location. The contrast in job size raised a few eyebrows. Albert Miller, NCC superintendent of schools and project coordinator, looked across the park at the piles and drily stated, “Well, it ain’t gonna get done by itself.”

While the mulch group shoveled and raked the piles methodically, smaller teams painted perimeter gates bright yellow and refreshed red curb paint along driveways. Four baseball equipment shacks were painted grey and blue. By the end of the workday, finished painters joined in the mulch movement, and the team completed all the jobs.

Brian Casteluccio, Roseville Parks, Recreation and Libraries Superintendent, wrote, “I want to send a huge kudos to your team. They did a great job! It was a very successful volunteer event. Your work is greatly appreciated by the City of Roseville and the community.”

Featured in Northern Lights, October 26, 2023
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Joelle Chinnock Chosen as Ending Homelessness Initiative Coordinator
Joelle Chinnock Chosen as Ending Homelessness Initiative Coordinator 1474 1967 Ken Miller

Joelle Chinnock started her new job as the Ending Homelessness Initiative Coordinator in
August. Before this, she served as the Director of Disaster Recovery and Development for the Paradise church after the Camp Fire of 2018. In this position, she led multiple support initiatives, wrote grants, and co-founded the Camp Shed Project.

Applying her professional and personal experience to the Ending Homelessness Initiative, Chinnock stated, “During the Camp Fire incident, I was not equipped nor trained. However, I felt the urge to assist my fellow survivors. This desire was driven by my own personal journey to overcome the trauma of being displaced and losing my home. I know many unhoused individuals experience similar feelings of hopelessness and despair. I am thrilled to be part of the solution and restore hope in these people’s lives.”

At the 2022 Constituency Session, NCC President Marc Woodson presented this new initiative, “Our goal is to reduce homelessness measurably and significantly in every county where we operate by 2032. This means achieving and maintaining ‘functional zero’ for specific populations within each county, such as chronically homeless or veterans. Although the Northern California Conference comprises 31 counties in California, we do not have a presence in all of them. Therefore, our focus is to reduce homelessness where we have churches and schools in the next ten years.”

Chinnock will serve as the primary contact for the initiative. As coordinator, she will shape the Built for Zero model strategy and liaise between NCC entities, regional organizations, and community groups. She will manage day-to-day operations, including volunteer development and training.

Chinnock continued, “I understand that each county where our schools and churches are present faces different issues, but the aim is to ensure that every entity is equipped with the necessary resources and information to address homelessness based on the Built for Zero model.”

Woodson concluded, “I am very excited to add Joelle to our team. She is going to be working on a very important initiative that will help our churches and schools become more community-relevant as they work with top leaders and non-profit organizations, addressing homelessness.”

Featured in Northern Lights, September 21, 2023
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