Help us Continue the McGimpsey Legacy

In North Thurston Public Schools, many students face the daily challenge of attending classes without basic necessities like toothpaste or enough food. The McGimpsey Pantries program, initiated in 2007 and named after local philanthropists John and Opal McGimpsey, has been a lifeline for these students.

Born from their humble beginnings during the Great Depression, John, a proud veteran who served his country during World War II, and Opal, a beacon of strength during the Dust Bowl era, understood firsthand the struggles of going without. Their experiences fueled a deep-seated desire to make a difference, particularly for the youth in their community.

Initially funded by the McGimpsey’s with $700,000 over three years, the program provides essential supplies like school materials, toiletries, clothing, and food to homeless and underprivileged students in North Thurston Public Schools. Today, every school in the district has a McGimsey Pantry and access to NTEF Student Assistance Funds which support students on Free/Reduced Lunch Program with educational opportunities like class/credit recovery fees, ASB cards for sport participation or music rentals. With approximately 6,300 students qualifying for free and reduced lunch and over 900 experiencing homelessness last year, the need is profound. 

Following the wishes of the McGimpsey’s—John, who passed away in 2014, and Opal, who passed away in 2015—the North Thurston Education Foundation utilized their generous gift to support students in need and ensure no students went hungry. However, the funds have now been fully expended, yet the demand for support remains as pressing as ever. We urgently need your help to ensure that we can continue providing essential assistance to these students. Your contribution can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

The McGimpsey Pantry and Student Assistance Program is a vital resource for our homeless and low-income students, providing them with the basic necessities they need to thrive and access to programs that charge for participation. It’s not just about meeting physical needs; it’s about ensuring that students have the resources required to focus on their education without the burden of hunger, inadequate hygiene, or financial constraints limiting their participation. Equitable access to all educational programs and support is crucial to ending the cycle of poverty.

The needs of our students persist and continue to grow. Every student deserves a safe environment to learn, grow, and access to education for a brighter future. We urgently seek your help to ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the tools they need to succeed. Your support today will have a lasting impact on the lives of countless students tomorrow. Join us in honoring the spirit of compassion and generosity embodied by John and Opal McGimpsey. Learn more about how you can contribute to the McGimpsey Pantries program and help us continue their remarkable legacy at Student Assistance Grants – North Thurston Education Foundation (ntef.org).

Scholarship Thank You, From Kaelynn Sharp

Dear Hawthorne Family,

As I approach the end of my academic career, I am writing to express my sincere gratitude. Words cannot describe how appreciative I am for how much this scholarship has supported me over these past two years. Receiving this scholarship not only alleviated the financial burden of a college education but also served as a source of immense motivation for me to pursue my dream of working in the healthcare field. As I am only working a minimum-wage job, your generosity has allowed me to focus on my studies. This shows through everything that I have accomplished so far, as I have maintained a consistent 3.5-4.0 GPA. I am truly humbled to have your family as well as the NTEF who have believed in and supported me since the beginning.

These past two quarters have been exceptionally exciting as I was accepted into TCC’s Respiratory Care Program last August. It has always been my goal to work in healthcare, just like my father. His love for the field has instilled in me a passion for helping others and building positive patient outcomes through compassion and hard work. Finally, being able to learn about my specific field and work with respiratory patients has only deepened my sense of belonging and enthusiasm for the future. In June 2025, I will graduate with an Associate in Applied Sciences Degree in Respiratory Therapy.

Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and for making such a positive impact on my life.

Sincerely,
Kaelynn Sharp

Thank you from Isatou Barrow

March 25, 2024

Dear North Thurston Education Foundation,  Lewis R. Hawthorne, and Edna C. Hawthorne,

If anyone had told me two years ago that I would be attending college and pursuing my dreams without worrying about finances, I would never have believed it. You gave me the chance of a lifetime and the hope of seeing dreams come to reality, for which I am forever grateful.

Starting my first quarter at the University of Washington in 2023 marked the beginning of my academic journey. Determined to uphold the academic standards I had maintained throughout high school, I embarked on this new chapter of my education. I have faced numerous challenges throughout my college journey, gained valuable insights, and reached significant milestones.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my academic progress has been the opportunity to delve deeply into my chosen field of study. From foundational courses to advanced seminars, I have embraced the opportunity to expand my knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of key concepts and theories. Engaging with passionate professors and peers has enriched my learning experience, allowing me to explore diverse perspectives and foster critical thinking skills.

Despite the many rewards of higher education, I have also faced challenges. Balancing multiple STEM courses, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments has sometimes proved daunting. However, through careful time management and perseverance, I have been able to overcome obstacles and stay on track towards achieving my academic goals.

As an active member of the Black Student Union, African Students Association, and Africans in Medicine, I have had the opportunity to meet and connect with many amazing people who share similar experiences with me. As a member of these organizations, I Actively participated in planning and organizing events and initiatives to promote cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion on campus. I also collaborated with fellow members to facilitate discussions, workshops, and events addressing issues affecting the Black and African community.

I am also a member of A Vision for Engineering Literacy and Access (AVELA). I partner with the Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine to conduct research, create STEM workshops, and teach k-12 children from underrepresented backgrounds. This is especially important because I can give back to my community. I have also recently been elected as the Director of Fundraising for the University of Washington Engineering Without Borders chapter, and I am looking forward to serving my club to the best of my abilities. Another thing I found myself heavily involved in this year was the student body. I have been an active senator since October 2023. I took on this role because I am passionate about amplifying student voices and promoting student engagement. As a member of the General Affairs Committee, I advocate for student issues and participate in decision-making. I am currently running for the position of Director of University Affairs for the ASUW. In this role, I seek to foster meaningful engagement, influence university policies, and address student concerns effectively, ultimately contributing to a thriving and inclusive campus community.

In terms of achievements, I have been working tirelessly to maintain a strong academic record while actively participating in campus organizations and community service initiatives. Whether conducting research, organizing events, or volunteering in the community, I have sought to make the most of my time outside the classroom and contribute positively to my campus and local community. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my academic journey and pursue opportunities for growth and exploration in Biochemistry. With each new challenge and achievement, I am confident I will continue learning and evolving as a scholar and a global citizen. Thank you for believing in me and allowing me to achieve my dreams.

Sincerely,
Isatou Barrow

Welcoming Deanna East as the Foundation’s New Executive Director

We are pleased to announce that after an extensive search, we have hired a new Executive Director, Deanna East. East will begin on August 1, 2023. 

 

Deanna East is a highly experienced professional with 20 years of experience in public education and a steadfast commitment to improving educational outcomes. Her impact extends beyond the classroom, making a profound difference in the lives of students and families.

 

While working as a Health Room Assistant at Timberline High School in 2005, Deanna became aware of the presence of homeless students within the system. This discovery ignited her passion to address their needs, leading her to establish programs that provided essential resources and support. Deanna’s dedication extended further as she actively served on the executive boards of nonprofits dedicated to supporting students and homeless populations.

 

Deanna’s impact extended beyond Timberline High School. Raising her two children who attended North Thurston Public Schools from Kindergarten through 12th grade, she was a frequent volunteer at not only each of their schools but in many other support organizations as well. Her boys both graduated from Timberline High School. Through her active involvement as a parent, Deanna strengthened her personal connection to the community and deepened her commitment to fostering educational success for all students.

 

For over a decade, Deanna’s powerful advocacy and inspiring stories have reached a wide audience. As a keynote speaker for Homeless Backpack (now All Kids Win) and through her active involvement with the North Thurston Education Foundation, Deanna has tirelessly advocated for students facing challenges. She consistently seeks out opportunities to raise awareness and secure new resources to support their needs. Her unwavering dedication to empowering students is a driving force behind her advocacy efforts.

 

In 2017, Deanna seized the opportunity to serve as a McKinney Vento Homeless Student Navigator at the NTPS district office. Over the next five years, she dedicated herself to providing unwavering support to homeless students and their families, guiding them through available programs and ensuring their success in school. Deanna’s efforts not only improved graduation rates for McKinney Vento students but also inspired many to pursue post-secondary education.

 

In March 2022, Deanna joined Capital Region ESD113 as a Coordinator for the Attendance and Reengagement Project. Collaborating with OSPI and 8 other ESD Coordinators across Washington, Deanna leveraged research and best practices to train districts on building effective Attendance Teams. Her role involved working closely with district and school teams to enhance proactive approaches to attendance, develop re-engagement systems, and utilize real-time attendance data for structured support, all aimed at improving attendance and engagement.

 

Now, as the Executive Director of the North Thurston Education Foundation, Deanna’s vast experience and unwavering dedication continue to transform the lives of countless young individuals in the community.

Deanna East, (360) 628-3281

[email protected]

Job Description: Executive Director for North Thurston Education Foundation

Job Description: Executive Director for North Thurston Education Foundation

POSITION CLOSES: JUNE 27, 2023

To apply for this position, please send your application to Blake Knoblauch, Board President of the North Thurston Education Foundation, at [email protected].

The North Thurston Education Foundation (NTEF) is seeking a motivated and creative self-starter for the position of Executive Director. As the Executive Director, you will be responsible for assisting the Board of Trustees in expanding the organization’s capacity to meet the growing educational needs of the community. This includes program management, fundraising and resource development, asset stewardship, communications and partnerships, and organizational administration.

The NTEF is an independent, not-for-profit, community-based organization that mobilizes financial, leadership, and other resources to enrich programs and enhance educational opportunities for students and staff of North Thurston Public Schools. In the previous year, the Foundation raised $739,500 to support students and overcome educational obstacles where public funding is unavailable or inadequate. Examples of the Foundation’s impact include providing financial assistance for emergency needs, scholarships for higher education, direct aid for unique student learning opportunities, and grants for innovative education programs.

As the Executive Director, you will play a key role in implementing the recently established partnership agreement between NTEF and the North Thurston Public Schools. Your responsibilities will include serving as ex-officio and staff to the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee, providing administrative support, training, board development, planning, contract management, and other operational and administrative duties. You will also cultivate and maintain an excellent working relationship with the North Thurston Public Schools, coordinate committees, manage financial operations and reporting, and oversee program implementation, including scholarship awards and learning assistance grants

Additionally, you will be responsible for developing and strengthening community and business partnerships, increasing the visibility and outreach of the Foundation, managing communications through the website and social media platforms, and representing the Foundation as requested. Fundraising and development activities, including membership growth, securing in-kind donations, and working with contracted marketing agencies for reports and publications, will also be part of your role.

To excel in this position, you should have a passion for education and community-based organizations. A minimum of 3-5 years of related experience in the majority of areas of responsibility is preferred, and a bachelor’s degree is desirable. You should be committed to the Foundation’s mission and capable of working cooperatively with the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee. The ability to work independently with minimal supervision, financial and record-keeping skills, development experience, strong communication skills, proficiency in computer applications, and the ability to work effectively with external partners and stakeholders are essential.

The North Thurston Education Foundation offers competitive compensation for this role.

To apply for this position, please send your application to Blake Knoblauch, Board President of the North Thurston Education Foundation, at [email protected].

We welcome individuals who are enthusiastic about supporting education and are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of students in the North Thurston Public Schools. Join our team and contribute to the growth and success of our community through education.

 

ABOUT NORTH THURSTON EDUCATION FOUNDATION: Incorporated in 1989, the North Thurston Education Foundation is an independent, tax-exempt non-profit volunteer organization that raises funds to eliminate financial barriers to student success among North Thurston students from low-income families. In addition to the scholarship program, the Foundation provides each district school with student assistance funds that can be used for student needs that can’t be met with public funds; offers financial help to the district’s more than one thousand homeless students; and makes grants to teachers for special classroom projects. More information about the Foundation is available at www.ntef.org.

 

 

Mike Jones 2019 Headshot

Farewell and Thank You

June 1, 2023

Mike Jones 2019 Headshot

Michael Jones

Executive Director

Dear North Thurston Education Foundation Supporters,

I was appointed North Thurston Education Foundation’s (NTEF) Executive Director on August 1, 2017, and it has been an absolute privilege and honor to serve the Foundation and work alongside such dedicated and passionate individuals. Together, we have made significant strides in supporting students within our community, contributing $3.4 million towards their educational endeavors.

While reflecting on my personal and professional journey, I have realized that it is time to take a step back and prioritize other aspects of my life. Therefore, I have decided to take a break from my professional responsibilities to travel and spend quality time with my family. I am not renewing my contract as Executive Director, effective July 31, 2023.

This period of rejuvenation and exploration is essential for personal growth and will allow me to return to the workforce with renewed energy and fresh perspectives.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to the NTEF Board of Directors and our invaluable stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout my tenure. Together, we have accomplished remarkable achievements, positively impacting the lives of countless students in North Thurston.

I am confident that the NTEF will thrive under new leadership and achieve even greater success.

I assure you that I am committed to facilitating a smooth transition during this period. I will work closely with my successor and provide any necessary support to ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities.

Please accept my sincere thanks for the opportunity to lead the NTEF and make a difference in students’ lives. I am grateful for the support, collaboration, and friendships forged during my time here. It has been a privilege to serve alongside you all.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any additional information or assistance during this transition. My personal contact information remains unchanged.

Thank you once again for your understanding and support. I look forward to witnessing the continued success of the North Thurston Education Foundation and the bright future for the students we serve.

Mike Jones, Executive Director
Phone: 360-790-6548
Email: [email protected]

P.S. The NTEF Board is actively hiring my replacement. Please email Board President, Blake Knoblauch, here for more information.

North Thurston Education Foundation Awards $191,000 in Scholarships to 49 Students

The North Thurston Education Foundation has awarded scholarships with a total value of $191,000 to 49 graduating seniors from North Thurston Public Schools.

“We are delighted to award scholarships to so many of our graduating NTPS seniors. Our selection process was very competitive this year due to the high quality of our student applications. These students, who spent most of their final two years of high school learning online, are articulate, strong, and resilient. It is an honor to support them as they take their next steps in life. We are thankful to our gracious donors who support the North Thurston Education Foundation Scholarship program. Due to their generosity, NTEF offered several newly named scholarships this year. We appreciate the kindness of this community and their support of our students and schools, “ said Beth Utto-Galarneau, Scholarship Chair.

Scholarships awarded range from $2,500 to $14,000. The NTEF Scholarship Committee evaluated applications on several factors, including academic achievement, school and community activities, references, quality of the required essay and financial need.

The following graduating seniors received this year’s awards: 

Named Scholarships: The scholarship program includes designated named endowed scholarships and Foundation-funded scholarships.

In 2023, 27 named scholarships were awarded to the following students:

Alex Ward Memorial Scholarship – Avery Anderson, North Thurston High School

Bill Williams Memorial Scholarship – Levi White, Timberline High School

Charles E. Callahan Education Scholarship – Rachelle Chavez, Timberline High School

Colton Thorstrom Smith Scholarship – Angel Vannoy, River Ridge High School

Lisa Corwin Memorial Scholarship – Cianna Cantrell, River Ridge High School

Davies Vocational-Technical Scholarship – Sage Tomlinson, River Ridge High School

Frank Parker Memorial Scholarship – Natalie Hagerman, North Thurston High School

Friends and Family Scholarship – Ashley Nguyen, Timberline High School

James Koval Memorial Scholarship – Lizette Arana, Timberline High School

Jeannette Hostetter Ford Memorial Scholarship – Annika Nelson, Timberline High School

John Gott Education Scholarship – Alanis Blackburn, River Ridge High School

Roy Pedersen Memorial Scholarship – Dylan Phipps, North Thurston High School

Dr. G. Sue Shannon Scholarship – Lakeshia Nesbitt-Tominus, North Thurston High School

Nicholas T. Walker Scholarship – Cooper Smith, Timberline High School

Ethel & Vaughn F. Philpot Scholarship – Snohwimnimah Nmah, Timberline High School

Rahman Family Scholarship – Chae Won Yoo, North Thurston High School

Craig A. Shanafelt Scholarship – Alyssa Jerenz-Mapu, Timberline High School

Gillis Breaking Barrier Scholarship – Pitrish Mualia, Timberline High School

Porter Scholarship for Hope – Brandon Jean, Timberline High School

Skip Scoggin Scholarship – Christopher Towne, North Thurston High School

Supporting Women in STEM Scholarship – Veronica England, North Thurston High School

The Mary P Dolciani Scholarship –

  • Angelo Lomsdale, River Ridge High School
  • Vladimir Ordonez, River Ridge High School

Lewis R. Hawthorne & Edna C. Hawthorne Scholarships –

  • Isatou Barrow, North Thurston High School
  • Sharon Gracey, North Thurston High School
  • Jason Pham, Timberline High School
  • Kayla Housekeeper, Timberline High School

Foundation Scholarships: $2500 Foundation Scholarships are awarded annually. In 2023, 22 foundation scholarships were awarded to the following students:

North Thurston High School: Avelinn Colombo, Angie Ata, Plascencia Alejandra, Melia Yoshioka-Niau and Laurel Cheny

River Ridge High School: Yesica Mendez Sandoval and Tavieon Tucker
Timberline High School: Jacob Garrison, Ruby Danielson, Brandon Avent, Mackenzie Comeaux, Kaydren Boyer, Lyliea Funk, Damian Zimmerman, McKenzie Welliver, Trinitee Robertson, Sierra Rice, Cheyenne Paavola, Zakary Hopper and Janine Bermudez.

Envision Career Academy: Grace Ratliff and Victoria Long

Twenty-three of the scholarships are named after individuals in the community and funded by bequests from or donations on behalf of the persons for whom they are named. The remaining scholarships were solely financed by the Foundation’s annual fund-raising and by an unrestricted grant from the Dawkins Charitable Trust. To view a list of scholarship establishment history and details, visit: https://ntef.org/special-named-endowed-scholarships/.

From Police Chief to Dog Fosterer: Meet North Thurston Education Foundation’s Newest Board Member, Robert Almada!

Meet Robert Almada, one of the newest board members of the North Thurston Education Foundation. We had the pleasure of sitting down with him to learn more about what brought him to the foundation and what he enjoys doing when he’s not working or volunteering. Robert is the Chief of Police for the Lacey Police Department.

Robert first became involved with the foundation by attending fundraisers and wanting to become more involved in helping to achieve the foundation’s goals. As a board member, he enjoys seeing the positive lifelong impacts of the foundation on the youth of the community and feels humbled to be allowed to help in this work.

When he’s not working or volunteering, Robert and his wife enjoy fostering dogs from Joint Animal Services while they undergo medical treatment and as preparation for their forever homes. Talk about making a positive impact in all areas of his life!

When asked about how the community can best support the work of the foundation, Robert notes that the community has already been generous through their contributions of time, talent, and treasure. However, he hopes that the community will continue to make the work of the foundation a priority so that they can expand their outreach and assistance to meet the growing needs for food, clothing, shelter, and learning opportunities among the community’s youth.

We are thrilled to have Robert as a board member and grateful for his dedication to the foundation and the community. Thank you, Robert!

North Thurston Education Foundation Awards $153,500 in Scholarships to 38 Students

Lacey, WA – June 8, 2022 – The North Thurston Education Foundation has awarded scholarships with a total value of $153,500 to 38 graduating seniors from North Thurston Public Schools.

 

“We are delighted to award scholarships to 38 of our graduating NTPS seniors. Our selection process was very competitive this year due to the high quality of our student applications. These students, who spent most of their final two years of high school learning online, are articulate, strong, and resilient. It is an honor to support them as they take their next steps in life. We are thankful to our gracious donors who support the North Thurston Education Foundation Scholarship program. Due to their generosity, NTEF offered several newly named scholarships this year. We appreciate the kindness of this community and their support of our students and schools, “ said Beth Utto-Galarneau, Scholarship Chair.

 

Scholarships awarded range from $2,000 to $14,000. The NTEF Scholarship Committee evaluated applications on several factors, including academic achievement, school and community activities, references, quality of the required essay and financial need.

 

The following graduating seniors received this year’s awards:

 

Named Scholarships: The scholarship program includes designated named endowed scholarships and Foundation-funded scholarships.

In 2022, 18 named scholarships were awarded to the following students:

Alex Ward Memorial Scholarship – James Fowler – North Thurston

Bill Williams Memorial Scholarship – Ahna Rader – Timberline

Charles E. Callahan Education Scholarship – Parker Bird – Timberline

Colton Thorstrom Smith Scholarship – Kaelin Green – River Ridge

Lisa Corwin Memorial Scholarship – Destinee Robertson – Timberline

Davies Vocational-Technical Scholarship – Yasmine Avelar – Timberline

Frank Parker Memorial Scholarship – Bebe Simone Hart – Timberline

Friends and Family Scholarship – Kaydence Garcia (Doublerunner) – Timberline

James Koval Memorial Scholarship – Kayla Ackerson – Timberline

Jeannette Hostetter Ford Memorial Scholarship – Benito Dres – Timberline

John Gott Education Scholarship – Andi Trumbel – Timberline

Roy Pedersen Memorial Scholarship – Abigail Joseph – River Ridge

Dr. G. Sue Shannon Scholarship – Zoe Miller – River Ridge

Nicholas T. Walker Scholarship – Nicholas Waltermeyer – Timberline

Ethel & Vaughn F. Philpot Scholarship – Amy Pham – Timberline

Rahman Family Scholarship – Jeffrey Lee – North Thurston High School

Craig A. Shanafelt Scholarship – Taylor Dillon – River Ridge

Lewis R. Hawthorne & Edna C. Hawthorne Scholarships –

 Kaelynn Sharp – North Thurston

 Haley Luken – North Thurston

Prayten Mualia – Timberline

Nathan Ramos – Timberline

Foundation Scholarships: $2500 Foundation Scholarships are awarded annually. In 2022, 17 foundation scholarships were awarded to the following students:

North Thurston High School: Samantha Conner, Autumn Apelar, Vinnie Nguyen

River Ridge High School: Caroline Jenkins, Sarah Mercado, Gabriel Cohen, Alan Ly
Timberline High School: Catherine Ewers, Lindsay Crowe, Lilly Collard, Talia Clark, Olivia, Andino, Maia Ayuso-Robles, Callista Lee, Samantha Sarte, Jordan Waltermeyer, Isabella Wilbur

 

Nineteen of the scholarships are named after individuals in the community and funded by bequests from or donations on behalf of the persons for whom they are named. The remaining scholarships were solely financed by the Foundation’s annual fund-raising and by an unrestricted grant from the Dawkins Charitable Trust. To view a list of scholarship establishment history and details, visit: https://ntef.org/special-named-endowed-scholarships/.