Jo Loss: Small Actions Lead to Big Results
Jo Loss, a longtime resident, and dedicated community advocate moved to Castro Valley with her husband, Ed, in 1987. The couple prioritized the town’s strong school system for their growing family. Originally from Oakland, the couple sought a place with more space and educational opportunities for their children. Since then, Loss has spent decades serving the community in various capacities, from volunteering in schools to leading civic initiatives.
Loss spoke with the Castro Valley Forum about her volunteer career, the importance of creating community, and doing the next right thing.
“Do any small piece of good that you can do because it's going to impact and help someone,” Loss told the Forum.
A self-described “professional volunteer,” Loss has played a crucial role in the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) for over 20 years. She served on the state board for 11 years, including nine years on the board of directors. From 2009 to 2011, she held the prestigious position of California State PTA President. Her extensive involvement in public education led her to be elected to the Castro Valley School Board in 1995, where she served for 25 years.
“We took classes and engaged in professional development to build a strong governance team,” Loss explained, emphasizing the board’s commitment to focusing on children and families rather than personal political ambitions. She views public education as the cornerstone of democracy and has dedicated her career to ensuring all students receive quality education.
Beyond education, Loss has been actively involved in civic initiatives through the League of Women Voters (LWV), where she recently completed a four-year term as president. Under her leadership, the League set goals to promote civil discourse in the community and support homeless individuals. One such effort included a community meeting in June, where 75 attendees participated in discussions on addressing homelessness.
Additionally, Loss spearheaded a project to provide warm clothing for the homeless. For Christmas, she requested her son build a hat tree, which she placed in a local shelter to collect winter gear. The next initiative, planned for March, is an “Underwear Challenge,” encouraging nonprofits in the area to collect undergarments for those in need—one of the most requested items among the homeless population.
While the League of Women Voters is primarily known for educating citizens on election cycles and policy issues, Loss emphasized that outreach extends beyond voting rights. “To empower underserved communities, we must ensure they have the resources to participate in democracy,” she said, citing past projects where educating parents on the public education system became a prerequisite for arts advocacy.
Looking at Castro Valley’s growth, Loss encourages new residents to get involved. She has coached local sports teams, managed community programs, and worked alongside other dedicated parents. Recognizing other’s struggles, she believes in supporting all families rather than judging those unable to participate in traditional ways.
“We would go to all the events (school, scouting, sports, etc.) and see all the same parents,” Loss said. “But my point is, don't judge the parents that aren't there because there's probably other things going on in their lives. We had two Castro Valley moms speak at a recent LWV event who suddenly found themselves homeless. You can't judge them for that. You need to say, What do you need, and what can I do to help?”
Reflecting on her proudest achievements, Loss highlights the opening of the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. Years in the making, the center solidified the district’s commitment to music, drama, and dance, even amid budget cuts. “It’s not just for students, but for families and the whole community,” she said.
As she continues her service, Jo Loss remains an unwavering advocate for education, civic engagement, and community support, embodying the spirit of public service in Castro Valley.