My story.
Growing up poor in Antioch, I understand what it feels like to be ignored by the institutions that are supposed to serve the people. My early life was defined by a lack of opportunity and a feeling of injustice as I struggled in the shadow of the Great Recession (2008). While my story may be unique for someone in public service, I know my experiences mirror those of many in our community, which is why I have dedicated my life to serving those in need.
Early Education
Born and raised in Antioch, I spent my entire K-12 education within the Antioch Unified School District (AUSD), attending schools in some of the district’s most underfunded facilities. My high school journey began at Antioch High, but during my freshman year, my family faced the challenges of losing our home due to the Great Recession, which led to a period of homelessness. Despite the hardship, I transferred to Prospects High School, driven by the determination to earn my diploma. By 16, I had completed high school, enrolled in community college, and went on to graduate with honors from the University of California, Berkeley.
The Foundation
I began my career in public service with a variety of internships and roles that fueled my passion for helping communities and individuals in need of support. From working as a Congressional District Intern for Congresswoman Barbara Lee, where I focused on veteran affairs, education, and environmental policy, to organizing grassroots efforts as a Field Organizer for Sam Liccardo’s mayoral campaign, I honed my skills in advocacy and community outreach. I also contributed to mentoring roles, including as a senior staff member for De Anza College's environmental studies program, where I developed training materials and managed student mentor programs.
Education and Impact
These formative experiences solidified my commitment to public service, especially within the context of education. Motivated by my desire to give back to students from low-income backgrounds like mine, I pursued opportunities in educational consulting, including my work with the Antioch Unified School District, where I helped develop programs to improve educational outcomes for students. After this, I knew I could do more to help my city, which is why I transitioned into leadership roles with local organizations and school districts to create lasting, impactful change.
Youngest Elected in Antioch
In 2018, I ran for the Antioch Unified School District Board of Education and won, becoming the youngest elected official in the city’s history. During my tenure, I championed student voice and advocated for youth representation in board decisions. I fought to raise the Pride flag for the first time in district history, stood up for LGBTQ+ rights, and pushed for more inclusive, student-centered policies. In 2020, I was elected Board President, where I led with transparency in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. I actively engaged with the community, and consistently called attention to systemic gaps impacting students, especially those historically underserved. My approach to governance centered on honesty, accountability, and elevating the needs of the people our schools are meant to serve.
Goldman School of Public Policy
I earned my Master’s in Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley’s Goldman School, where I conducted research addressing some of California’s most pressing challenges, including climate resilience and the housing crisis. My graduate work sharpened my skills in data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and strategic problem-solving. Throughout, I remained grounded in my mission: to apply what I learned directly to improve outcomes for communities like mine.
Youngest Elected - Again
In 2020, I was elected Antioch City Clerk, making me the youngest person ever to hold the role. Over my four-year term, I modernized the city’s public records systems, improved transparency, and launched multilingual civic engagement campaigns to reach underrepresented communities. I also reformed the volunteer board appointment process, resulting in the most diverse set of commissioners in city history. My term concluded in 2024, but my commitment to building equitable, accessible institutions remains central to my work.
Middle School Teacher
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a significant shift in my career path. Driven by a desire to contribute more directly to my community, I returned to the classroom as a middle school teacher in Oakland, CA. In this role, I am passionate about nurturing young minds and fostering an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
“I remain deeply committed to serving my community—whether in the classroom, through research, or in leadership. My work has always been driven by a belief that transformative change starts with equity, connection, and opportunity for all.”
— Ms. Ellie Householder