Author

Maya Nelson

Maya is an intern with Shasta Scout this summer. As a student journalist, she has covered student life, crime, and education.

Maya's Latest Articles

Open Notebook: As journalists, we too are threads in the fabric of our stories

Our Open Notebook series offers readers a behind-the-scenes look at how our journalists work. In this notebook entry, reporter Maya Nelson reflects on what it means to build relationships with sources and the public, and how those relationships play an integral role in shaping stories.

In Shasta, one in 10 moms gives birth with a substance use disorder. A fragmented system is trying to catch up

The county’s rate of neonatal abstinence syndrome is among the highest in California, and the challenges begin long before affected babies are born. Gaps in care, along with fears and stigma, can make it difficult for pregnant people with a substance use disorder to get help — but the county’s millions in opioid settlement funds could make a difference.

Some Millville School District employees describe turbulent last year under new district leadership

After a superintendent transition in 2025 some staff at one of Shasta County's smallest school districts say they experienced a challenging last school year and are disappointed in a board that didn’t hear their concerns.

Redding outperforms for Ironman athletes, from beautiful yet challenging terrain to overwhelmingly supportive crowds

The Ironman 70.3 Northern California made a mark on athletes, supporters and the broader community. Hear the stories of those who participated, and see more photos from the event.

See a sneak peak of photos from the Redding Ironman triathlon

The Ironman 70.3 Northern California has passed, but it was a moment in Redding’s history to commemorate for athletes, their supporters and the Redding community.

At the Hope Market, Shasta community members can shop for free groceries, including fresh eggs and produce

As more families seek food assistance, the Salvation Army's Hope Market lets people select the groceries they'll actually use instead of offering pre-packaged boxes. The client-choice model reflects a growing movement among food pantries to reduce waste while preserving dignity.

Supervisor Matt Plummer launches ‘Front Porch Shasta’ 

The volunteer initiative aims to strengthen community connections across the county, starting in five neighborhoods.

Shasta College reports early success with use of county opioid settlement funds

College officials say Shasta County's $889,000 investment is helping students stay enrolled, complete degrees and enter the behavioral health workforce. The presentation follows public scrutiny over how the county's using millions in opioid litigation funds.

Late City Manager William Tarbox died of cardiac arrest, City of Redding says

Tarbox died unexpectedly on July 19, just months after beginning his role as Redding’s city manager. A funeral is planned for this Friday, July 31. Members of the public are welcome.

Across the state, communities are taking down Flock Safety cameras. Could Shasta be next?

Just months after the sheriff's office expanded the county’s network of ALPR cameras, two local elected officials are calling for them to be removed. The change of heart comes amid growing statewide scrutiny of the company’s data-sharing practices and local community concern over privacy and surveillance.