Jake Odello

My History

Jake has a passion for education and seeks opportunities to serve and give back. His life was positively shaped by the outstanding programs, faculty and staff of the Carmel Unified School District (CUSD). Growing up in Carmel, Jake was fortunate enough to live alongside multiple generations of Odellos that have been a fixture in the Carmel area since the 1920’s.

In 2023 Jake was appointed to the California Agriculture Education Advisory Committee by the State Superintendent of Schools, and then elected chair by his fellow committee peers. In his short time with Agriculture Education, Jake led the successful effort to complete a strategic plan, which sets a dynamic direction for Agriculture Education in California through to the next decade.

In 2020 Jake was appointed by the Monterey County Board of Supervisors to serve on the Monterey County Community Action Commission, representing District 5, which provides leadership and support to those in our community that live in poverty.

Having a career in the local agriculture and farming industry, Jake partnered with Hartnell Community College in 2021 to advise on the current food safety curriculum. He now serves as an adjunct faculty.

Giving back is a vital component to Jake’s character, and in 2021, with the help of family and friends, he started the Jacob Odello Agricultural Leadership Scholarship at Cal Poly which helps students from Monterey County and other surrounding areas, who transfer to Cal Poly from a community college with intentions to major in an agriculture degree. In addition, Jake provides leadership to various local non-profit organizations, and volunteers at community events, and student programs like the Cachagua Summer Camp.

Jake now lives in the beautiful Carmel Valley Village and appreciates any and all opportunities to serve his community.

My Plans

1. Diversification of career pathways that meet the needs of today’s students.
   Jake is a younger professional himself, and a graduate of CUSD, he hopes to offer a perspective that is unique and resonates with today's students. While also maintaining the strong academic rigor of a college ready student but has a plethora of choices upon graduation.
   
   
2. Supporting and expanding the concept of internships/externships for better career ready and soft skills development.
   One of the most rewarding parts of Jake's career has been the development of an internship program that has helped students find their career path and develop skills that will carry them through to their own careers.
   
   
3. Highlighting the diversity of successes of our talented student body, faculty, and staff.
   Through Jake's community service, he has seen some amazing students accomplish some remarkable things, whether that be academic, work, school/community projects, sports, or co-curricular successes. Highlighting these students and celebrating the diversity of achievements is important. Additionally, Jake has witnessed some exceptional creativity of CUSD faculty and staff, that he hopes to acknowledge and recognize.
   
   
4. Reduce leadership turnover and secure long term stability.
   Everyone deserves to be set up for success and given the opportunity to succeed. It is vital to develop talent and leadership within the district; encouraging access to professional development and internal employee growth.
   
   
5. Ensure and support the practice of forward thinking.
   Supporting and developing the district’s ability to look ahead, and be aware of future trends in educational structure, change in policies, and what lies ahead on the horizon. It is important to be prepared for the future.

Why Vote For Me?

Jake Odello is an excellent choice due to his deep commitment to educational excellence and student success. Jake is committed to bring innovative solutions and a fresh perspective to the table. His passion for creating positivity and his ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders make him a strong choice for advancing shared goals and improving the district's future. Jake has a proven track record of leadership and unwavering dedication to his community.