As a classified employee of Woodland Joint Unified School District, Natalie Bezares is doing her part to ensure all students graduate prepared for college or a career.
Natalie currently serves as a Community and Family Engagement (CAFÉ) Specialist at Cache Creek High School and Maxwell Elementary School. She previously worked as a Paraprofessional for English Learner students at Pioneer High School.
“I have been with the District for almost four years now,” Natalie said. “Previously my responsibilities included working with individuals and groups of students in grades 9-12 and providing instructional support to students on various subjects. As a CAFÉ specialist, I now instill my knowledge in our communities and work directly with families to help engage in their students’ academic growth.”
The district’s CAFÉ specialists are assigned to various schools and work directly with principals, teachers, and staff to assist all families facing obstacles in their students’ education. They connect families with resources, answer questions, and serve as liaisons between families and school staff.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is being able to bridge the communication gap between non-English speaking families and their children’s academic institutions,” Natalie said. “Many parents may feel anxious or disconnected from their child’s schooling due to language barriers, and it gives me great satisfaction to provide them with the resources and support they need to feel more involved and engaged in their child’s academic journey.”
Classified staff are district employees, other than credentialed teachers, who provide high-quality services that students benefit from. Their roles are essential to the district’s mission of preparing and empowering all students for a future of endless possibilities.
“CAFÉ specialists build a strong connection between our schools and families,” said Natalie. “We address any issues or concerns that may arise more quickly and effectively. This open line of communication helps parents feel more empowered to voice their opinions and to be active participants in their child’s education. By helping these families navigate the education system and empowering them with the information they need to advocate for their children, I am fostering a positive relationship between families and schools, while promoting a sense of inclusion and equity for all students.”
As one of the newer CAFÉ specialists, Natalie is already making strides in her new role.
“Despite being relatively new to our CAFÉ program, Natalie has already made a remarkable impact with her dedication, enthusiasm, and exceptional performance,” said CAFÉ Program Manager Yaneth Alfaro. “Her rapid integration into the team and quick grasp of our processes demonstrate a remarkable level of adaptability and skill. Her positive attitude and eagerness to learn have undoubtedly contributed to her success. We’re truly fortunate to have Natalie as part of our CAFÉ team, and we look forward to witnessing her continued growth and success within our program.”
Helping students succeed academically is a rewarding career, said Natalie, who attended California State University of Sacramento as a communication major.
“It is said that we are here to teach students, but I feel that sometimes students teach us the most valuable life lessons, allowing us to grow as educators and individuals,” she said.
In her spare time, Natalie enjoys spending time with friends, reading, and enjoying music and movies.
“In my free time, I enjoy traveling with friends, reading, eating different foods, and attending concerts,” she said. “I also adore photography. I’m a homebody who enjoys crime documentaries and horror films.”
