Staff Report
The Churchill County School District is ushering in the 2025–2026 school year with four new administrators—some familiar, some brand-new to town—but all bring a deep commitment to students, staff, and the wider Fallon community. Here’s a closer look at the newest members of the team:
Shannon Urquhart — Coordinator of Student Services
A Fallon native, Urquhart is a 1998 Churchill County High School graduate and attended the University of Nevada Reno. She spent her career working with students on the autism spectrum, and her expertise has taken her everywhere from local schools to international conferences. After earning her master’s in educational administration, she traveled across Nevada offering professional development, coached interscholastic horse shows and volunteered with Autism on the Seas.
Now back in her hometown, Urquhart is ready to partner with local educators and families. When she’s not supporting students, you might find her riding horses or cheering on her nieces and nephews at 4-H shows or trap shoots.
Tricia Strasdin — Dean of Students, Churchill County High School
Tricia Strasdin spent the past eight years serving as a Churchill County School District board trustee, all while holding a teaching position in Fernley. She is also a graduate of CCHS. Strasdin said her goal is to make sure every student knows they’re seen, supported, and surrounded by staff who truly care.
Strasdin comes from a big Fallon family and is about to become a first-time grandmother. When she’s not at school, you’ll likely find her camping, reading historical fiction, or planning her next Disneyland trip.
Heather Alves — Vice Principal, Churchill County Middle School
Raised in California, Alves earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and later completed her teaching credentials. She most recently earned a master’s degree in educational leadership.
Alves taught in California before the family relocated to Fallon to start a dairy. She taught in Lyon County for several years, then came to Churchill County where she has been a second-grade teacher at E.C. Best.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Alves enjoys spending time with family and friends, taking road trips, and staying active.
Trent Vass — Vice Principal, Churchill County Middle School
Trent Vass, native of Lompoc, Calif., played college baseball in Arizona and North Carolina before he served with the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. Following his service, Vass earned an education degree from UNR followed by two master degrees.
He taught at Hug High School in Reno working with students with emotional and behavioral challenges. Later he stepped into leadership roles in Reno at a charter and middle school.
Now he’s landed at CCMS, where he hopes to build strong, respectful relationships with students and families.
Off campus, Vass enjoys exploring the outdoors, shooting sports and golf course.
Superintendent Derild Parsons said the district is fortunate to bring such a dynamic group on board.
“We are thrilled to welcome these talented leaders to our administrative team. Each of them brings unique strengths, dedication, and a shared commitment to supporting our students, staff, and families. I am confident that they will make a positive and lasting impact not only in our schools, but in our community,” Superintendent Derild Parsons said.
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