Executive Director Andrea Zier and Assistant Superintendent Ryan Stokes join the podcast to talk about the upcoming levy.

Curious about what the levy funds, why school districts rely on levies, or how it could impact your taxes? They break it all down in clear, straightforward terms and tackle the questions we hear most from our community.

If you want to understand the levy and what it means for our schools and local taxpayers, this episode is for you.

School safety is about far more than locks and drills. In this episode of The Voices of the Valley, we sit down with Dr. Allie Schiavone, Snoqualmie Valley School District’s new Associate Director overseeing safety and security.

Dr. Schiavone shares how the district approaches safety and student well being, the improvements already underway, and how schools are strengthening systems to support both physical and emotional safety. From prevention and preparedness to collaboration across departments, this conversation offers a behind the scenes look at how the district is continuously working to keep students and staff safe.

Whether you are a parent, staff member, or community partner, this episode provides insight into the thoughtful and proactive work happening across Snoqualmie Valley schools.

In this episode of The Voices of the Valley, we sit down with Early Learning Center Principal Macvean to talk about stepping into a new leadership role and guiding a growing program that now has a home of its own on a newly remodeled campus in North Bend.

Principal Macvean reflects on the expansion of the Early Learning Center, the challenges that come with building something new, and her vision for strengthening early learning opportunities in a community where preschool access is a major need. From leadership lessons to future-focused planning, this conversation highlights why early learning matters and where this program is headed next.

Trust us. This is one you will want in your earbuds.

Mount Si High School’s library was packed for the 11th Annual Poetry Slam, and the energy was unreal. In this episode, we sit down with AP Literature teacher Dan Mancoff and the senior champions from “Run the Mic” Alyssa Bergquist, Dylan Colis, Emily Rodriguez, and Mimi Theroux.

They share what it takes to go from studying classic verse to writing something personal, brave, and original. We talk nerves, snapping fingers, team chemistry, and why this night is one of the most uplifting traditions at Mount Si. You’ll hear how poetry becomes a megaphone for student voice, and why opportunities like this matter for every kid.

Mount Si High School leadership teacher Don Bartel and senior leader Karenna Wheaton drop in to talk about what leadership really looks like at Mount Si. Spoiler alert: it's not glitter-filled poster boards anymore. They pull back the curtain on one of the fastest growing classes on campus, dig into what makes it meaningful for students, and share why authentic leadership is shaping the vibe of the whole school. Fun stories, real talk, and plenty of heart.

After spending the day as “Principal for a Day” at Snoqualmie Middle School, Senator Keith Goehner joined Principal Megan Botulinski to reflect on his experience, what he learned from students and staff, and how schools are preparing the next generation of community leaders. Tune in for a thoughtful and uplifting conversation about education, leadership, and the power of seeing schools in action.

In this episode of Voices of the Valley, Superintendent Schlotfeldt sits down with internationally renowned educator and inclusion advocate Dr. Shelley Moore. After inspiring the entire Snoqualmie Valley School District staff at the start of the school year, Dr. Moore shares more about her journey, what inclusion really looks like in today’s classrooms, and why shifting our thinking about diversity benefits all students.

Get ready for laughter, reflection, and plenty of “aha” moments as Dr. Moore reminds us what education is really about: belonging.

Mount Si senior Mackenna Boulton-Wallace and Agriculture Teacher Amy Graham join Superintendent Dan Schlotfeldt for a conversation about their journey to the National FFA Vet Science competition in Indianapolis. Hear how Mackenna prepared for the national stage, what the Vet Science program is all about, and how hands-on agricultural education is shaping student success in the Snoqualmie Valley.

In this episode of Voices of the Valley, Mount Si High School girls soccer coach Kate Deines Krieger shares her journey from standout player to inspiring coach. A former professional and collegiate athlete, Kate reflects on the lessons learned through competition, teamwork, and perseverance—and how those same values shape the interscholastic experience for her student-athletes today. Join us for an uplifting conversation about leadership, growth, and the enduring joy of high school athletics.

🎙️ Good to Great… and Great to Excellence!
As we wrap up Season 1 of Voices of the Valley, we’re excited to bring you a powerful and inspiring final episode featuring Mount Si High School Interim Principal Vernie Newell.

In this conversation, Principal Newell shares his vision for the upcoming school year, focusing on building strong relationships, fostering a culture of excellence, and continuing the school’s commitment to high expectations and support for all students. With a deep passion for education and leadership, he talks about what it means to move from “good to great,” and how the MSHS team plans to take it one step further—toward excellence.

Whether you're a parent, student, staff member, or community partner, this episode offers a hopeful and motivating glimpse into what lies ahead at Mount Si High School.