Celebrating 60 Years of Service: Enola Davis

This October, Vallejo City Unified School District proudly celebrates Enola Davis, child development associate at Steffan Manor Elementary School, for 60 years of service to our students, families, and community.

Originally from New Orleans, La., Davis moved to Vallejo at age five and attended local schools before beginning her lifelong journey in education. Her VCUSD story began when a principal encouraged her to join the district — a decision that developed into six decades of dedication, consistency, and a deep love for helping children learn and grow.

When asked what she hopes her students remember most about her, Davis says, “that she taught them to follow the rules and to succeed in whatever they want to pursue.” Her direct advice for others seeking a long-lasting career? “Just stick with it!”

Davis attributes her remarkable longevity to one thing: passion for your work. “I’ve never felt burnt out because I truly love what I do,” she says. “Helping children keeps me coming back every single day.”

Her colleagues at Steffan Manor are quick to compliment Davis. “Enola is the best-dressed member of the team — we call her the Queen of Child Development!” says fellow educator Renee Gutierrez, Child Development Head Teacher. When asked what it is like to have such an experienced team member by her side, Gutierrez cheerfully adds that Davis’s wealth of experience often leads to reminders of how “back in her day,” things were done differently — and sometimes, for the better.

As she reaches this historic milestone on Oct. 24, 2025, VCUSD honors Davis for her consistency, dedication, and lifelong passion for education. Coordinator of Child Development, Dr. Corinna Calica, Ed.D., shares, “Being with VCUSD’s children is Enola's priority. Now, it has become Enola's legacy.” Davis’s legacy inspires generations of Vallejo students, families, and educators. 

When asked if she had any plans to retire, Davis smiled and said, “If I do retire, I will probably continue to substitute teach.” Her passion for service remains strong, and VCUSD will be fortunate to have the support of the Queen of Child Development for years to come.