West Valley School District

We continue honoring our 2024 retirees with Dishman Hills High School teacher Molly Coulter. She said her favorite part of working at West Valley schools was the dedication of co-workers and how everyone works together in supporting students to reach their goals. She also appreciated the opportunity to improve her teaching practice as well as the freedom to try, and occasionally fail, at new things. Lauren House, principal at DHHS, shared the following: “After fourteen years of working alongside Molly, I can attest to the incredible impact she has had on students. While Molly is a math teacher, she didn’t just teach math. Molly taught students about themselves, about never giving up, that they can do hard things, and most importantly that they are worth it. Her dedication, compassion, and enthusiasm have touched so many, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape our community for years to come.” Thank you for your investment in students, Molly. We wish you only the best in retirement!

During his 23 years at WVSD, Steve Engstrom worked at WVHS, SVHS and within the maintenance department. He finished his career at West Valley City School where he had some of his favorite memories and also served as a foundational piece of the school. “We tell our families that relationships are the most important aspect of the school, and Steve models that as well as anyone," shared City School Principal Dusty Andres. "He always has time to help students and always does so with a positive attitude and a smile on his face. Staff and students alike depend on him for everything from inflating volleyballs to cleaning up accidental spills. With Steve around, there are no bad days.” Thank you, Steve, for brightening the days of those around you!

We are so proud of Pasadena Park Elementary School teacher Ashley Wilhelm for being nominated as June's KHQ Teacher of the Month!

ABOVE AND BEYOND: Last week, West Valley Early Learning Center paraeducator Meyo Grageda was nominated by Kathy Collins for the district’s Above and Beyond Award for her extreme dedication to students. Since the classroom has been short-staffed this year, Meyo has stepped up and taken on jobs that usually take three or four people to complete. In addition to keeping the classroom clean, planning cooking activities and creating zoophonic crafts, she loves to dance and sing, filling the classroom with laughter and excitement from students. “Meyo supports the students of our ECEAP program by volunteering for our family nights, shopping for classroom supplies and supporting equity by translating for our families,” Kathy shared. “She is a team player whose tireless dedication is molding the future of her little amigos.” Thank you, Meyo, for helping students succeed while bringing smiles to their faces! #WVSDaboveandbeyond

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: For the past school year, Lawra Gosselin-Harris (second row on the left) has spent time building, workshopping and planning for the Spokane Valley High School improv team that performed at last night’s Block Party. SVHS teacher Delvone Bullis nominated this parent for her sound, clear feedback to students as well as her role connecting the group to Blue Door Theatre as well as encouraging students at West Valley City School to create their own improv group. She not only shows up for show, but she positions the group for photos and has even made them dinners. Delvone said Lawra’s true strength lies in her patience and understanding, as well as her ability to foster an environment where kids feel safe to perform and try new ideas as artists. “Lawra takes the time to get to know each student and provides positive comments when they succeed,” Delvone said. “She has been an absolute joy and team player that I look forward to working with again next year!”

ABOVE AND BEYOND: Earlier this month, Seth Woodard Elementary paraeducator Sherri Garrison was recognized with the district's Above and Beyond Award for her outstanding dedication, passion and contributions to the Seth community. Principal Tyrone Hoard shared about her positive attitude and willingness to to go the extra mile to foster a sense of belonging among students, staff and families. "Whether she's assisting during the school day or volunteering for numerous after-school activities, Sherri is always ready to lend a helping hand," Principal Hoard said. "She understands the vital importance of these opportunities for the kids and never hesitates to contribute her time and energy." Thank you, Sherri, for your exceptional dedication and hard work. You truly help others WIN every single day! #WVSDaboveandbeyond

Manufacturing students at West Valley High School claimed the first space on a traveling trophy due to receiving the most votes by those who visited Riverfront Square during the PetSavers fundraising challenge earlier this spring. “We weighed each ballot box of tickets and the one that had the most in it, just about 1,400 to be exact, was West Valley,” Stephanie Napier of PetSavers shared. “The modern-day cat condo with insulation, a heater and lights was a massive hit for the cat lovers!” #WVSDteamwork #WVSDstudentsgiveback

Today is the day we honor our incredible Health Team! Your care, compassion, and dedication make all the difference. Thank you to our nurses and health aides for your unwavering commitment to keeping our students healthy and safe every day! #WVSDcelebratesstaff #NationalSchoolNurseDay

A ROYAL HONOR: Dave Marlow, math teacher at West Valley High School, was surprised during last Friday’s staff meeting to be honored as Lilac Princess Chloe’s choice for Teacher of the Year. Chloe shared, “Whether it is providing extra help during class or checking in on students’ extracurricular activities, Mr. Marlow consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every student feels seen, heard and encouraged to reach their full potential. Overall, this teacher isn't just shaping minds, but building meaningful connections and fostering a genuine love for learning." We appreciate members of the Spokane Lilac Festival and Gesa Credit Union for sponsoring this opportunity and being available at the presentation!

During a recent WASA Awards Celebration, several West Valley individuals were honored for their contributions: - Members of the West Valley Education Foundation were honored for their diligent work in supporting local students and staff with scholarship and grants. - Superintendent Kyle Rydell and Assistant Superintendent Vicki Leifer received the Student Achievement Leadership Award for their work within the WASA Professional Learning Community (PLC) Project. - Dr. Gene Sementi, former WVSD superintendent, was also honored with the Golden Gavel Award for his ongoing work as a consultant who supports educational leaders, school districts and communities.