Grateful in Graton: Sonoma County's Teacher of the Year works at Oak Grove School in Graton
Meet the county's teacher of the year, learn more about Graton Town Square project, and a farewell party for Ted Sasse
As seems to be the regular case nowadays, there is a lot going on in our little village
Oak Grove’s Hayley Blondin Named Sonoma County Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to Hayley Blondin, bilingual superstar teacher at Oak Grove Elementary, who has earned the incredible honor of Sonoma County Teacher of the Year for 2026! Teaching in both English and Spanish, Hayley builds confidence in every student — one meaningful connection at a time. From launching Earth Day Extravaganzas and talent shows to empowering student council leaders, she doesn’t just shape classrooms — she transforms entire school communities. As Superintendent Dr. Amie Carter put it, Mrs. Blondin is simply “a rock star.” We couldn’t agree more. Congratulations, Hayley!
Big Happenings on the Town Square Project
On April 29, the Graton Community Services District and ReVillage, the consulting team managing the creation of the Town Square Project, hosted a jam-packed community meeting at the Graton Community Center to explain where the project is, how it has been and will be financed, how community members can participate, and the events coming up for the remainder of the year. It was as far from a pitchforks-and-peasants meeting as possible.
The crowd of over 100 was enthusiastic and supportive of all the speakers, and I believe they understood that this is a financially community-supported project. Everyone in the Graton area who will enjoy the town square and Graton Green is encouraged to participate financially and hands-on.
Work Party and Potluck on Wednesday, May 20
And speaking of hands-on, Lyndsey Dyer, the tireless board member of ReVillage, announced there will be a work party on Wednesday, May 20, at 5 pm, with an after-work potluck running to 7 pm.
Sip & Stroll Fundraiser, May 30
The next big fundraising event for the Town Square is on May 30, featuring a Sip & Stroll Tasting with Green Valley wines and local food growers and purveyors. This joyful community fundraiser is bringing together local wineries, seasonal bites, live music, growers, makers, and neighbors for an early-spring evening supporting the future of Graton Town Square and public life in West County.
Get the eminently reasonable-priced tickets at HERE
Farewell to Ted
Dozens of friends of postal clerk Ted Sasse gathered at the home of Ann Hancock throughout the day on Saturday, May 9, to say thank you and farewell. All agreed that he will be greatly missed.
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