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/.

 

Dorn Barr raised the bar on the NTEF Board

We’ve all met those dedicated souls who pour themselves into work, play, and family life. They raise the bar for everyone around them through their tireless efforts, inspiring others to a higher standard. On the North Thurston Education Foundation Board, Dorn Barr is one of those people. A longtime teacher in the district, she turned her passion for education into working behind the scenes but is now ready to retire from the Board and slow down…a little.

After graduating from Western in 1969, Barr worked with marketing and yearbook at Capital High School for five years, then spent 29 years at Timberline High in marketing, leadership, and health. “After retiring, I went to Ocosta Elementary in Westport with Title 9 Reading for a semester before taking off to Spain,” she explains. She then spent 2017 and 2018 with 5th grade at Lakes Elementary working for her former student, Jamie Roberts.

“I would have to say the Elementary school experiences were the best for me because I watched the growth of each child as they learned something new, and then they were able to use it,” Barr recalls. “However, my high school kiddos stay connected to me, and I love watching them as adults, and I am sad when I lose one. They are all precious to me.”

Her move from educator to Board member was an easy transition. “The year after retiring, I was invited to join the NTEF Board by Tom MacRobert, who I met at college where we both worked in the coffee shop and later both taught at Timberline.”

“I joined because I believe in community service, and what better way to give than by helping kids?” says Barr. “I began working on the Scholarship Committee and just finished my tenth time. I also was in charge of fundraising luncheons. When they need me, I am there.”

And she encourages others to step up and do what they can. “For those considering joining the Foundation, everyone is needed. You all have talents and skills which can help our kids! As a former teacher, I saw firsthand what kids need. I didn’t know the NTEF existed, so when my students needed something, I found a way to get it, even if it was out of my own pocket. I am so grateful that the Foundation has expanded their assistance for kids and families.”

Born in Maine to parents who met in England during World War II, the family moved to Seattle when her father took a job with Boeing. “Most of my relatives live in England,” says Barr, “I have been there ten times and, during extended visits, attended school there as well. My parents have both passed; however, I established a scholarship in their names.”

“My parents were avid supporters when I joined the Foundation. Now that I am completing the longest time for a member on the Board—9 1/2 years—it isn’t something you can easily walk away from! Next October, we’ve got a golf tournament at Capital City, and all hands need to be ready to help!” Her love to travel and four active grandsons mean little actual downtime, but Barr is excited for what the future holds.

If you can’t join or volunteer yourself, don’t forget that helping the Board is as simple as shopping. Both the Fred Meyer Community Rewards Program and AmazonSmile allow you to donate a portion of your purchase to the NTEF. Every little bit helps, and like Dorn, you too can raise the bar for today’s hardworking students and educators.

Terri Gibbons Memorial Fund

Terri Gibbons was a paraprofessional who worked at three different North Thurston Public Schools throughout her career, most recently at Komachin Middle School.

Terri impacted thousands of students with her compassion and caring. Terri passed away on Thursday, March 3.

Terri’s friends and family requested that we set up a Terri Gibbons Memorial Fund. We will use donations to Terri’s Fund to buy clothes, food and personal hygiene items for students in need who attend North Thurston Public Schools.