Last night, 14 incredibly talented Methow Valley School District students took center stage at the Poetry Out Loud District Finals, competing for a chance to represent the district at the regional level. Among them, Kyra Hickman (ILC) and Orlo Parkinson (LBHS) emerged as the top two finalists, earning spots in the 2025 National Poetry Out Loud Regional Finals in Spokane.

Elliot Pixie-Plott (LBHS), Anja Merkens (LBHS), and Lily Arntsen (ILC) were also recognized as runner-ups and alternates, showcasing exceptional performances throughout the competition.

We also wish to recognize LBHS student Liam Kiefer for his soothing musical accompaniment throughout the event.

After the event, LBHS Humanities and Drama Teacher Kelly Grayum remarked, "I do not envy our judges. The performances were outstanding across the board, with only the slightest differences separating the competitors."

This marks the 13th consecutive year of Methow Valley School District’s participation in the National Poetry Out Loud competition, further cementing the district’s commitment to fostering student creativity and artistic expression. Kyra and Orlo now join an impressive roster of district, regional, and state finalists who have been recognized for their remarkable performances in this prestigious contest.

We invite the community to join us in celebrating the achievements of all the MVSD Poetry Out Loud participants and to acknowledge the dedicated efforts of LBHS Humanities and Drama Teachers Kelly Grayum and Cam Alford, as well as the district’s Poetry Out Loud Coach, Kira Wood-Cramer, our judges, the Merc, the Public School Funding Alliance, and Methow Arts for their unwavering support of the arts and our students.

Previously cancelled due to inclement weather and the closure of our schools on December 18th, the MVSD Poetry Out Loud event has been rescheduled and will take place on Thursday, January 9, at the Merc, beginning promptly at 6:00 pm.

We recognize this is short notice. However, faced with limited options and a quick turnaround in advance of the regional and state finals, this was the date that was finalized.

Building upon a rich history and tradition of outstanding performances, we strongly encourage you to consider attending this event.

Dear Methow Valley Students, Parents, and Community Members,

Due to inclement weather and adverse driving conditions, the MVSD is closed today. When our schools are closed, all after-school athletic programs, events, and activities are cancelled. This includes the cancellation of tonight’s Poetry Out Loud event. 

As a result, we will be rescheduling the Poetry Out Loud event. We will work to identify a new date and will share that information as soon as possible. 

In the meantime, stay safe and we’ll see you again soon.

Best wishes,

Kelly Grayum

Teacher

Liberty Bell Junior-Senior High

Elyse Darwood

Principal

Liberty Bell Junior-Senior High

Sara Mounsey

Principal

ILC Principal

Due to heavy snow fall and expected poor road conditions, all MVSD activities, MV Nordic, AAU Basketball and Winthrop Rink Hockey will be cancelled for December 17th..

Dear Methow Valley Community,

The Methow Valley School District Board of Directors is announcing the pending vacancy of an "at-large" board seat. Long-standing board member Gary Marchbank has announced his resignation, effective December 31,2024. In accordance with District Policy 1114, Board Member Resignation and Vacancy, the school board is now seeking applications from qualified individuals for this position.

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following materials:

● A completed application and questionnaire

● A brief letter of interest

● A current resume

Completed applications may be submitted in person at the District Office, located at 18 Twin Lakes Rd, Winthrop, WA 98862 or via email to: HR@methow.org. The deadline for submission is Wednesday, January 8, 2025, by 4:00 PM.

Thank you for your interest in supporting the continued growth and development of the Methow Valley School District!

For more info please see our School Board Opening Page: LINK

Sincerely,

Dana Stromberger

Chair, Methow Valley School District Board of Directors

Liberty Bell and the ILC Compete in this year's Poetry Out Loud Contest

When: Wednesday, December 18. Doors open at 5:30

Where: The Merc Playhouse, 6:00 PM

Free admission with donations taken at the door.

Supported by Public School Funding Alliance and Methow Arts

Join us for an evening of art and music on Thursday, December 12th from 6:00-7:30PM in the LBHS gym.

The MVSD Board of Directors have begun the search for a new Superintendent to take over for the retiring Tom Venable. The Board has selected Northwest Leadership Associates to assist in our search. They would like to hear from you about the challenges and opportunities as well as the qualities you wish to see in the next Superintendent. The Superintendent Search Community Stakeholder Survey closes at the end of the day on December 13, 2024.

Please share your feedback by clicking on the Superintendent Search Community Stakeholder Survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/​r/METHOW25