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!

Teacher Hayley Blondin, shown here on vacation at the Grand Canyon, will be recognized at an all-school celebration at 11 am on Monday, May 18.

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.

Farewell party for Postal Clerk Ted Sasse at Ann Hancock’s home.

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