Strong in Community Service and Spirit

Posted on December 27, 2011

Tami Koch is one busy lady these days. As chair of the 1st Annual Del Norte High Grad Nite Committee, mom to two teenagers, an assistant coach for Del Norte Youth Cheer, and a sprint triathlete, one might think Tami has enough on her plate. Tami, however, has a different outlook. “I want to help keep our community foundation strong,” says Tami.

Tami is doing just that with her volunteer work at both Del Norte High School, where her son, Kevin, is a senior and at Oak Valley Middle School, where her daughter, Rachel, is in 8th grade. Being involved is a family affair, according to Tami. “I have been with my husband, Randy, for 20 years. He is a great person and helpful to our community – he truly cares,” says Tami.

In addition to keeping the community strong, Tami is committed to keeping her body strong as well. A couple of years ago, she started running in half marathons, and she recently completed her first sprint triathlon. “I turned 44 and did the triathlon two days later,” says Tami. “I was so proud of myself.”

Tami and her family have lived in the Ivy Gate community of 4S Ranch for the past 6 years. They love the family atmosphere and the closeness of the community. “We love the schools and the wonderful trails and parks,” says Tami.

Growing up on a Minnesota farm, Tami was far from the temperate weather of Southern California. Tami lived on 340 acres, worked on a dairy farm, raised chickens and did, in fact, walk to school in the rain and snow. “I get to tell the story of how I walked a mile to school in a snow storm – it was 20 degrees below zero – and I could hardly see in front of me,” laughs Tami.

While she admits that she loves to push her boundaries and work past her fears, Tami is quick to point out that she couldn’t – and wouldn’t – do it alone. She is thankful for her partners in the triathlon for their support and for her family and friends for all they do. Right now in the midst of planning for the Del Norte High Grad Nite, she is especially grateful for her fellow committee members. “The people who have come to be a part of the PTSA Grad Nite Committee are so amazing and wonderful. Thank you so much,” says Tami.