On the Trail with Becky Shultz: Explore the Path We’ve Traveled

Life is an Adventure. Let’s Explore the Journey Together!

In education and expanded learning, we often take the path less traveled – the unpaved trail that leads to exploration and adventure! The BOOST Breakfast Club Blog is excited to spotlight the journeys of the BOOST Leadership and BOOST Ambassador teams in the Fall 2025 Collaborative Blog Series – Share Your Career Journey: Explore the Path We’ve Traveled. Thank you to these important BOOST partners for adventuring into the unknown for the betterment of our youth and communities.

Let’s get on the trail with Becky Shultz (She, her, hers).  Thank you, Becky, for inviting us to join your journey! We appreciate you!

Explore the Path We’ve Traveled with BOOST Leadership Team Member and 2022 OSTI Award Winner, Becky Shultz (She, her, hers)

Becky is a Retired Educator based in Whittier, CA, and a proud member of the BOOST Leadership Team.

What is your career path journey? How did you get involved in the out-of-school time, expanded learning, and/or educational fields?

I began as a counselor and started working in expanded learning after being asked to write a grant for our school district. This started a long career as a Director of Expanded Learning.

What part of your career path has surprised you most?

I didn’t know if I wanted to leave counseling to become a manager. It was a great learning experience, and I enjoyed the challenges.

Who has supported you on your journey as a mentor, colleague, or friend?

What keeps you in the field?

I am currently retired, but I enjoyed working with students of all ages and their families. It is a labor of love.

As you continue on the journey, what areas of leadership are you developing in yourself?

I continue to be involved in different committees and leadership groups. It is a lifelong journey.

What skills are the most crucial to succeeding in this field?

It is crucial to have Vision and to listen to others. Inclusivity and Curiosity are key.

What would you recommend others pack in their “career backpack”? Why are those items important?

Pack your people skills, check in frequently, and don’t be afraid to take risks.

Tell us about your BOOST adventure? When did you get started?

After attending my first BOOST Conference, I looked into being part of the Leadership Team. I have enjoyed 15 years of sharing ideas and helping to create change in our field.

What is the best mistake you have made in your career? What did you learn from it?

There have been many learning experiences that I have grown from. I learned to slow down and get more input before starting new plans. 

Today, for breakfast, I had…

Oatmeal and Toast.