Methow Valley School District

MV Independent  Learning Center

Methow Valley Elementary

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We are a comprehensive 6th through 12th-grade award-winning junior and senior high school located on the leeward side of the North Cascades in North Central Washington. At Liberty Bell, we celebrate that each student’s plan is unique, ever-evolving, and something they get to own. We are proud to be an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, offering a comprehensive grades 6 -10 Middle Years Program (MYP).


Welcome to Liberty Bell High School!

Liberty Bell Jr Sr High

LBHS Public Events

Fair Field Trip

PD day

9th grade Outward Bound

6th Grade Campout

911 Driving School Parent Meeting

Parson's Photos

7th grade Outward Bound

Seniors w/ Jostens

Orienteering field trip to 8 mile (Mr. Daily)

JH Outdoor Rec

Jostens

9th Rafting Trip

Events

Today, the MVSD Food Services Team, partnering with Classroom in Bloom, is serving fajitas using peppers and onions harvested from the garden.

Thank you MVSD Food Services Team and Classroom in Bloom!

MVSD Food Services Teams Up with Classroom in Bloom to Provide Students with Healthy, Nutritious, Tasty Meals

The MVSD Soap Box Derby Racers have been working feverishly, putting the finishing touches on their cars, preparing for the first annual MVSD Soap Box Derby Challenge!

In a recent letter sent to Soap Box Derby Racers and their parents, MVE 4th Grade Teacher and Soap Box Derby Advisor, Jonathan Stratman shared some of the exciting events designed to test the design, construction, and []()driving skills of the Soap Box Derby teams.

In advance of announcing the event, with safety at the forefront of the research and design process, Mr. Stratman strongly encouraged all club members to, "...wear long pants, shoes, and a bike helmet for use when road testing."

The MVE Soap Box Derby Challenge events include:

1.) Straight Line Challenge (5 points): Teams will compete to see whose car can complete the length of the course in the least amount of time.

2.) The Slalom Challenge (5 points): Teams will compete to see which car can complete the slalom course the quickest. Points will be awarded for speed and deducted for hitting any of the cones on the course.

3.) Brake Challenge (5 points): Teams will earn points by competing to see which car can come to a complete stop the quickest.

4.) Best in Show (10 points): Teams will compete to see which car has the best theme and/or style.

Mr. Stratman concluded his letter by stating, "Soap Box Derby club has been an engaging, fun, and high-interest endeavor for students. It’s all those things in large part because of volunteer Joe Downing, who shows up and goes big, not only in this club, but every other club that he’s a part of (and there are many of them!). The club has also benefited from a very generous materials donation from North Valley Lumber. If you have a chance to share some appreciation with either, please do so! This club couldn’t happen without them."

Please join us we recognize Mr. Stratman, Club Advisor, Joe Downing, Parent Volunteer, North Valley Lumber, MVSD Family and Community Engagement Coordinator, Laurel Carlton, PSFA, and the many other club advisors, parent volunteers, educational partners, and businesses making high interest, enriching after-school clubs and activities available to all MVSD students at no cost to families!

“You win some, lose some, and wreck some.” – Dale Earnhardt, Professional Stock Car Driver

**Dear Methow Valley**

It's true... We love our community-based mentors! At the ILC, we're only a few weeks into the school year and we're already leaving. That is, we are "leaving school to learn." Supported by a growing number of caring, competent community partners and mentors, we are participating in a variety of community-based projects and internships. This would not be possible without the support of businesses, organizations, and individuals who are willing to share their passion, time, and energy with us. We could not be more grateful. 

Our guess is that you might be asking yourself, "What does this look like?" Well, this past week, some of our students spent time learning from a list of mentors that included: 

[**Classroom in Bloom**](http://www.classroominbloom.org/)

[**1908 BBQ**](https://1908bbqtwisp.com/)

[**Methow Valley Elementary**](https://mve.methow.org/)

[**Fireweed Print Studio**](http://www.thecovecares.com/)

[The Cove ](http://www.thecovecares.com/)

[**Little Star North**](https://littlestarschool.org/)

[**Little Star South**](https://littlestarschool.org/twisp-campus)

[**Jamie's Place**](https://jamiesplace.org/)

[**Doubletree Farm**](https://www.methowgrown.org/doubletreefarm)

[**Methow Recycles**](https://www.methowrecycles.org/)

[**Methow Cycle and Sport**](https://www.methowcyclesport.com/)

[**Confluence Gallery**](https://www.confluencegallery.org/)

[**Methow Trails**](https://methowtrails.org/)

[Culler Studio ](https://twispworks.org/partners/culler-studio/)[](https://twispworks.org/partners/ktrt-the-root/)

[KRoot ](https://twispworks.org/partners/ktrt-the-root/)

[**Aspen Grove**](https://www.aspengrovehome.com/)

[**Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation**](https://www.methowsalmon.org/)

[**Winthrop Library**](https://www.ncwlibraries.org/locations/winthrop-public-library/)

[**Twisp Library**](https://www.ncwlibraries.org/locations/twisp-public-library/)

[**Glover St. Market**](https://www.gloverstreetmarket.com/)

A Love Affair...

The MVSD Music Program has received a generous donation from the Winthrop Music Association, a local non-profit that produces the annual Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival.

In a letter sent to Superintendent Venable on behalf of the Winthrop Music Association Board of Directors, Erika Olsen, Festival Director stated, "The association continues to be delighted to support your music program which aligns to our mission of promoting the arts and culture in the Methow Valley..."

Shortly after notifying board members, administration, and staff of the donation, LBHS Principal Elyse Darwood stated, "This donation will ensure we are able to take the final step needed to provide every student enrolled in our growing music program with access to an instrument at no cost to families." MVSD Board Vice-Chair, Frank Kline added, "Whether it's through the successful passage of our local levies or donations, it is clear that we are a community that invests in what we value, every student.

It’s with sincere gratitude and appreciation that we wish to publicly thank the Winthrop Music Association and its board members for their continued support of our music program!

MVSD Music Program Receives Generous Donation from Winthrop Music Association

Beginning this week and continuing into next week, Liberty Bell students (in grades 7 and 9) and ILC students are participating in a multi-day orientation at the Northwest Outward Bound School located in Mazama.

The grant funded, multi-day orientation provides students with an opportunity to participate in rock climbing, rappelling, hiking, camping, and a variety of team-building activities. The activities, facilitated by []()skilled Outward Bound instructors, are designed to promote strong relationships between students and a positive school-wide culture and climate.

Northwest Outward Bound School was founded in 1965. It has centers in Portland, Redmond (OR), and Mazama (WA). Outward Bound is an educational organization focused on character development, leadership skills and service to the community.

Please join us as we thank Northwest Outward Bound, one of our many educational partners focused on promoting the academic, physical, and social-emotional well-being of our students!

Liberty Bell and ILC Students Take to the Mountains!

**Capping off an outstanding first week of school, the hard work, knowledge, and skills of the Methow Valley Cascaders 4-H participants was on full display today at the Okanogan County Fair, and will continue through the weekend.**

**Even better, under the guidance of LBHS Principal, Elyse Darwood, LBHS students in grades 6-12 and staff traveled to the Fair today to honor the exceptional work of their peers and learn a little bit about our community's rich agricultural history, culture, and traditions.**

**A little history associated with the partnership between the MVSD and 4-H:**

**In the spring of 2017, Liberty Bell Junior, Emily Paul (now, a 1st grade teacher in Omak), with the Support of Suellen White and Molly Patterson, approached the Methow Valley School District Board of Directors with the idea of establishing a partnership with the Methow Valley Cascaders 4-H Club. In brief, the partnership would allow participating students in grades 9 – 12 to receive high school elective credit and apply their 4-H projects to their 10th grade Personal Project and/or their 12th grade Senior Project.**

**When faced with the question, "Why do so?", one board member stated, “I can think of many reasons as to why this makes good sense.”**

**Below are just a few that were mentioned:**

**• Honors our community’s history, traditions, and cultures**

**• Provides youth with an opportunity to develop and apply their knowledge and skills through authentic, real-world learning opportunities**

**• Provides students with access to community-based mentors that have an interest in supporting our youth**

**• Promotes the development of positive attributes and attitudes that are difficult to measure, yet serve as strong predictors of success in life**

**• Acknowledges the hard work and dedication displayed by each student by counting their time spent exhibiting their learning at the Okanogan County Fair as a school day, rather than an absence**

**• Provides students with multiple pathways toward graduation and beyond, driven by individual student interests**

**With a strong interest in developing knowledgeable and skillful students who take action by applying their learning outside the walls of a classroom, Emily’s proposal was unanimously supported and the partnership was established.**

**Not familiar with 4-H?**

**As described on their website, kids and teens in 4-H programs complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Kids experience 4‑H in every county and parish in the country through in-school and after-school programs, school and community clubs and 4‑H camps.**

**4‑H’s reach and depth are unmatched, reaching kids in every corner of America – from urban neighborhoods to suburban schoolyards to rural farming communities. Our network of 500,000 volunteers and 3,500 4‑H professionals provides caring and supportive mentoring to all 6 million 4‑H’ers, helping them grow into true leaders today and in life. To learn more, go to:** [**https://4-h.org/**](https://4-h.org/)

**Please join us as we acknowledge the many Methow Valley Cascaders 4-H participants (of all ages) for their exceptional display of knowledge, skill, action, and effort to preserve an important part of our community’s culture and history!**

Swine, Steer, Horses, Fur, and Feathers, Sewing, Artwork… Methow Valley Cascaders 4-H Participants Shine at Okanogan County Fair!

**Capping off an outstanding first week of school, the hard work, knowledge, and skills of the Methow Valley Cascaders 4-H participants was on full display today at the Okanogan County Fair, and will continue through the weekend.**

**Even better, under the guidance of LBHS Principal, Elyse Darwood, LBHS students in grades 6-12 and staff traveled to the Fair today to honor the exceptional work of their peers and learn a little bit about our community's rich agricultural history, culture, and traditions.**

**A little history associated with the partnership between the MVSD and 4-H:**

**In the spring of 2017, Liberty Bell Junior, Emily Paul (now, a 1st grade teacher in Omak), with the Support of Suellen White and Molly Patterson, approached the Methow Valley School District Board of Directors with the idea of establishing a partnership with the Methow Valley Cascaders 4-H Club. In brief, the partnership would allow participating students in grades 9 – 12 to receive high school elective credit and apply their 4-H projects to their 10th grade Personal Project and/or their 12th grade Senior Project.**

**When faced with the question, "Why do so?", one board member stated, “I can think of many reasons as to why this makes good sense.”**

**Below are just a few that were mentioned:**

**• Honors our community’s history, traditions, and cultures**

**• Provides youth with an opportunity to develop and apply their knowledge and skills through authentic, real-world learning opportunities**

**• Provides students with access to community-based mentors that have an interest in supporting our youth**

**• Promotes the development of positive attributes and attitudes that are difficult to measure, yet serve as strong predictors of success in life**

**• Acknowledges the hard work and dedication displayed by each student by counting their time spent exhibiting their learning at the Okanogan County Fair as a school day, rather than an absence**

**• Provides students with multiple pathways toward graduation and beyond, driven by individual student interests**

**With a strong interest in developing knowledgeable and skillful students who take action by applying their learning outside the walls of a classroom, Emily’s proposal was unanimously supported and the partnership was established.**

**Not familiar with 4-H?**

**As described on their website, kids and teens in 4-H programs complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Kids experience 4‑H in every county and parish in the country through in-school and after-school programs, school and community clubs and 4‑H camps.**

**4‑H’s reach and depth are unmatched, reaching kids in every corner of America – from urban neighborhoods to suburban schoolyards to rural farming communities. Our network of 500,000 volunteers and 3,500 4‑H professionals provides caring and supportive mentoring to all 6 million 4‑H’ers, helping them grow into true leaders today and in life. To learn more, go to:** [**https://4-h.org/**](https://4-h.org/)

**Please join us as we acknowledge the many Methow Valley Cascaders 4-H participants (of all ages) for their exceptional display of knowledge, skill, action, and effort to preserve an important part of our community’s culture and history!**

[Click here for the full article.](https://methowvalleynews.com/2023/08/31/younger-faster-stronger-lions-defend-state-1b-title/?fbclid=IwAR2rvSPn-uUYtV5SltEj1Y42k2ggvdrggumI3uuIYaKsYRlWGHqts-eTqCA)

Football!

[Click here for the full article.](https://methowvalleynews.com/2023/08/31/youth-experience-blend-for-lbhs-volleyball-team/?fbclid=IwAR0UPbvwyw11vJ6tP81iQTRIKHVgSptvludxvFOig2oNF9CgqkZZ5yXxpeM)

Volleyball!

Dear Methow Valley Students, Parents, and Community Members,\
Working in partnership with the Public School Funding Alliance, LBHS Activities Director, Michael Wilbur, our many community-based mentors, and MVSD staff, I'm excited to kick off another school year by offering a broad array of no-cost after-school clubs, in support of MVSD students and parents.

Fall club registration opens today. Below is a brief description of our after school clubs. More detailed detailed information about specific clubs, dates, and registration information can be found on the district website at: [methow.or](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmethow.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2SNbg5XQ5yBBnkwMlBG3GBhrQ-Q7heMqw1PT20qBJhnvpdoqlTi6\_aDuM\&h=AT2b4ubUi0nvwgGeo5WxmqhqMbXO1TKM3VzlUZQhI_fOX3DKsvhJvid3KBSZdjdLe7eGlRMJypfpM3b1RaIpeFiF_mg_Q6ByNUVC6HC2UQlkiZvpvtUKrYlMwqxznyqde0GbDk8&\__tn\_\_=-UK\*F\&c\[0]=AT3c_bztFBdTrzMEyk34nYT1Sn_FRZLlCTRbvb34MMle7XeHcU_BxcYnH1z970qt5T4WC05M8vwMDxdWSUcfkwsogKuHmlMZ58agoCpY7sO0O4NEbxCHXZWkQQM-gTgPhNQDxMJi5QhkmimGHKE0APtc67pKATau0f8TOcvqCu4cxDfUMMluZE79g3u4SLnZYwqoiy8EhB2xBuIr2NA)g.\
Best,\
Laurel Carlton, MVSD Family and Community Engagement Coordinator\
MVSD Clubs:\
Mt. Lion (grades 6-12) and Cub Clubs (grades K-5) provide students of all ages with access to highly engaging, community led, after school enrichment programs across grades K-12. For those who have participated in the past, I’m sure you can attest to the quality, and diversity of programming. Recent examples include: Mountain Biking, Yoga, Computer Science, Art, Garden, Chess... Driven by student interests, the list goes on and on.\
**Cost:**\
Clubs are available free of charge to all families.\
**Transportation:**\
District transportation is also provided, free of charge, Monday through Friday (except for holidays) with activities buses leaving the MVSD campus at 5pm, and dropping off students at the Winthrop Barn (drop off at 5:10) and the Twisp Community Center (drop off at 5:25).\
**Registration:**\
Club registration closes on Wednesday, September 6th.\
To register for clubs, please visit our MVSD website at [methow.org](https://methow.org/?fbclid=IwAR3kwqjqJBrPZBeuWH7uAdml2rRI2XTQX7YiPLxHNsC2zhEaJtgW3BEluSw), click on Departments, then click on Clubs and Activities.\
**Questions?**\
If you have any questions about MVSD Clubs, please contact Laurel Carlton, Family and Community Engagement Coordinator at: lcarlton@methow.org

MVSD Kicks Off Another Year of After-School Clubs and Activities

Dear Methow Valley Students, Parents, and Community Members,\
Working in partnership with the Public School Funding Alliance, LBHS Activities Director, Michael Wilbur, our many community-based mentors, and MVSD staff, I'm excited to kick off another school year by offering a broad array of no-cost after-school clubs, in support of MVSD students and parents.\
Fall club registration opens today. Below is a brief description of our after school clubs. More detailed detailed information about specific clubs, dates, and registration information can be found on the district website at: [methow.or](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmethow.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2bKMX55wVyCFYgTPKJ8mBxufxwgBC_zRkXRAhlX5OLeNloHdD44fytfRk\&h=AT3IoJ-kHUaVdzFxEBXug7bsb4P5fTWGqcbvheS9mm766BqFZmSzoAnOs-qd0es4\_bnFOLMxkK8roFw56wHk4UTtgBcMz6MPfUUhyznf_zKbCsmHYLmgqcAB91CCRXb9dKrWraU&\__tn\_\_=-UK\*F\&c\[0]=AT03eaWSlSwBdhdfbW4iD4VqaKFU70AdZd1cXnsqwB99NPiGvsZfCi7i-qV0EY8Cp9v5ZB4BU2WlG2cZZ9jo6Sz6L8mNPvD-jB3mnknw0VOqubSHu2CTIwzgf-WF_s7YZgAV5agKMhrwtjyK9JLmkayYihxCqL33eUHm1cBa6TEP1xm9QTJ02H8VtSjsk7jsGJasMQbqL7G-C0gKzg)\
Best,\
Laurel Carlton, MVSD Family and Community Engagement Coordinator\
**MVSD Clubs**\
Mt. Lion (grades 6-12) and Cub Clubs (grades K-5) provide students of all ages with access to highly engaging, community led, after school enrichment programs across grades K-12. For those who have participated in the past, I’m sure you can attest to the quality, and diversity of programming. Recent examples include: Mountain Biking, Yoga, Computer Science, Art, Garden, Chess... Driven by student interests, the list goes on and on.\
**Cost:**\
Clubs are available free of charge to all families:\
**Transportation:**\
District transportation is also provided, free of charge, Monday through Friday (except for holidays) with activities buses leaving the MVSD campus at 5pm, and dropping off students at the Winthrop Barn (drop off at 5:10) and the Twisp Community Center (drop off at 5:25).\
**Registration:**\
Club registration closes on Wednesday, September 6th\
To register for clubs, please visit our MVSD website at [methow.org](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmethow.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3YKvHwGFIH-yot8UzyxreUE6K1jE6tAb4uGEEDmAC3X-eg4LKcWVtpfsc\&h=AT3IoJ-kHUaVdzFxEBXug7bsb4P5fTWGqcbvheS9mm766BqFZmSzoAnOs-qd0es4\_bnFOLMxkK8roFw56wHk4UTtgBcMz6MPfUUhyznf_zKbCsmHYLmgqcAB91CCRXb9dKrWraU&\__tn\_\_=-UK\*F\&c\[0]=AT03eaWSlSwBdhdfbW4iD4VqaKFU70AdZd1cXnsqwB99NPiGvsZfCi7i-qV0EY8Cp9v5ZB4BU2WlG2cZZ9jo6Sz6L8mNPvD-jB3mnknw0VOqubSHu2CTIwzgf-WF_s7YZgAV5agKMhrwtjyK9JLmkayYihxCqL33eUHm1cBa6TEP1xm9QTJ02H8VtSjsk7jsGJasMQbqL7G-C0gKzg), click on Departments, then click on Clubs and Activities\
**Questions?**\
If you have any questions about MVSD Clubs, please contact Laurel Carlton, Family and Community Engagement Coordinator at: lcarlton@methow.org

Dear Methow Valley Students, Parents, and Community Members

Three days into the 2023-24 school year and I can state with full confidence, on behalf of our entire staff, it's been an "uplifting" event, literally!

Don't believe us? Well, I encourage you to check out a [video](https://fb.watch/mNFaRvNPKZ/) sent to us by TwispWorks displaying Matt Kennedy, MVSD Welding/Automotive Tech Instructor testing the automotive lifts located in the newly constructed, two-bay Automotive Tech Shop.

Located on the TwispWorks campus, the newly constructed MVSD Automotive Tech Shop, adjoining the recently renovated MVSD Weld Shop, is a great example of what it looks like when a community-driven vision is paired with strong community support. It becomes realit

Driven (no pun intended) by an aspirational vision and your unparalleled support of our schools, we are pleased to be in an enviable position, providing our students with access to industry-standard facilities, technology, and high quality instruction across a broad range of regionally relevant CTE pathways. At present, this includes coursework in the areas of Construction and Fabrication, Automotive Technology, Robotics and Computer Science, Business and Entrepreneurship, Hospitality and Recreation, Industrial Arts, and Natural Resources. 

Each pathway consists of exploratory and preparatory classes that allow students to access industry recognized credentials, work-based learning and dual credit opportunities. In addition to these formalized pathways, the MVSD also offers career connected learning and internship opportunities through partnerships with our community. Combined with community-based internships, these rich and diverse learning experiences contribute to the development of students who graduate equipped to pursue the broadest range of post-secondary pathways possible.

Fueled (another shameless pun?) by hopes and dreams of our students and limitless possibilities that await, here's to a great school year! 

In partnership,

Tom Venable

Superintendent, Methow Valley School District

Watch the video here: <https://fb.watch/mNFaRvNPKZ/>

Up, Up, and Away!

*Dear Methow Valley Students, Parents, and Community Members,*

***I**t’s with a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world, a deep connection to this place we call home, caring relationships, and a bright future filled with limitless possibilities, that I wish to welcome you and your student(s) back as we prepare to launch the 2023-24 school year.*

*Working together in support of every student, “one student at a time,” I am confident that during the 2023-24 school year, no different from previous school years, our students will experience many successes and milestone moments worthy of celebration. Undoubtedly, they will also experience challenges at various points along the way - some anticipated, and some unforeseen. *

*Not one to back down from a challenge, rather see it as an opportunity, it is our response that I believe sets our community apart from many others. It is the grace, humility, resiliency, competence, and compassion we display in the face of adversity – an entire community, acting as one, helping each and every one of our students to realize what is possible... especially those who can’t yet see it within themselves.   *

*Throughout the summer months, your principals, school leadership teams, student and family support services team, tech team, food services team, school secretaries, custodial/maintenance staff, district office staff, transportation department, and classroom teachers have been working hard in preparation for your arrival. *

*This work has included, but is not limited to the ongoing maintenance and improvements to our facilities, ensuring safe, secure, and healthy learning environments, the continued expansion of educational pathways and related course offerings, the maintenance of small class sizes, the expansion of enriching extracurricular after-school activities and aftercare, the expansion of Special Education staffing and related services, the expansion of mental health care services, and the expansion of middle school athletics, all at no cost to families*

*I'll conclude my letter by thanking each of you in advance for doing your part to make the Methow Valley a great place to live, work, and raise curious, creative, competent, compassionate, action-oriented students and graduates, prepared to pursue the limitless possibilities that await them. *

*We look forward to your return!*

*Cheers,*

*Tom VenableSuperintendent, Methow Valley School District*

Welcome Back MVSD

The MVSD has selected Dr. Alexandra Simmons to serve as the district's Mental Skills Coach. As the Mental Skills Coach, Dr. Simmons will support the development of mental skills commonly associated with healthy, fit, active youth and successful student-athletes. 

Dr. Alexandra Simmons is originally from Bethlehem, New Hampshire and earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and minor in Gender Studies from Saint Michael’s College in Winooski, Vermont. Simmons received her master’s in Sport Psychology and her PsyD in Clinical Psychology with a Sport Psychology specialization at John F. Kennedy University (Pleasant Hill, CA). 

She grew up in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, a small, active, and artistic community, similar to the Methow Valley. Alexandra participated in athletics and art programs as a youth, but focused on her love of field hockey during her collegiate career.  

She is passionate about working with people to support their mental health and performance endeavors, in and out of sport. She is eager to share her skills and expertise with the youth athletes of the Methow Valley with the mission of helping them to develop healthy awareness of the mind-body connection. Understanding this connection through the use of mental skills, she believes, will serve them as performers, students, and young adults beyond High School. 

Outside of work, Alexandra enjoys yoga, gardening, hiking, paddle boarding, snowboarding, cross country skiing, FaceTiming with her family in New England, and spending time with her partner, Anders, and their dog, Bella.

MVSD has selected Dr. Alexandra Simmons to serve as the district's Mental Skills Coach

The MVSD has selected Jason Jablonski to serve as the district's Strength and Conditioning Coach. As the Strength and Conditioning Coach, Jason will support the development of healthy, fit, active youth and well-conditioned student-athletes.

Jason Jablonski is the owner of SET Coaching, a multi-sport company focused on providing athletes at all levels with sport-specific coaching and biomechanical expertise. Through this, Jason match deep experience, science, and talent with the goals of each unique client to create an environment where his clients have been able to achieve results beyond their expectations. SET Coaching athletes have competed at local, regional, national and international levels.  

In addition to running SET Coaching, Jason served and the head coach for USA Cycling Mountain bike Program from 2012 to 2019 where he tracks developing athletes, organizes and runs development camps all over the world, and travels with a team of athletes to international races and World Cup events.

Jason Also spent 7 years after his professional racing career working at Black Diamond Sports Therapy as the Athlete rehab specialist working with athletes and the PT to design and implement sports specific rehab and strength programs for injured athletes so they could return to sport as soon as possible.

Jason now runs his SET Coaching Business full time while contracting with Cycling teams to run their High Performance programs. Currently working with Bear National Team out of California.  He also speaks regularly to local and regional schools and community groups. Jablonski holds a degree in elementary education with minors in biology and teaching English as a second language.

MVSD has selected Jason Jablonski to serve as the district's Strength and Conditioning Coach

MVSD Selects Jason Jablonski to Serve as the District's Strength and Conditioning Coach

MVSD Selects Dr. Alexandra Simmons to Serve as Mental Skills Coach

Thanks, in large part to the ongoing collaboration between the MVSD and TwispWorks, coupled with the generous support provided by the taxpayers of the Methow Valley, we're pleased to announce that the first of two lifts has been installed in the newly constructed Automotive Tech Shop on the TwispWorks campus.

The Automotive Tech Shop, a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, fueled by broad stakeholder feedback []()and support during the 2019 Dream Big Event was previously housed in a one-car garage.

The new facility, funded with local donor support and grant dollars (at no expense to the taxpayer) and the equipment, funded by the district's voter-approved, four-year replacement Technology levy, will provide the staffing, space, and access to industry standard technology needed to accommodate student interest, increased enrollment, and most importantly, equip participating students with the ability to obtain the skills and certifications necessary to pursue the widest range of post-secondary educational, vocational, and employment opportunities possible.

The installation of the second lift is scheduled to take place in advance of the first day of school.

Kudos to our educational partner, TwispWorks and the residents of the Methow Valley for your unparalleled support of our schools and investment in our students. We couldn't be more excited for our students and their future!

[See the video here!](https://www.facebook.com/twisp.works/videos/613329514280120)

The First of Two MVSD Automotive Tech Shop Lifts Installed!

Memorial Service-Kierra Reichert

Hello Mountain Lions,

Fall sports season is just around the corner, and registration is now open.**Please be sure to register prior to the first day of practice.**Students must have a valid physical on file to compete (physicals are good for two years and can be dropped off at the office).

Once again, MVSD is pleased to offer all students the opportunity to participate free of cost.**There will be no ASB fees, no pay-to-play fees, and attendance at all regular season home sporting events will be entirely free**. Just register, turn in that physical and student-athletes are good to go!

Fall sports schedules can be found on our athletic website:[libertybellmountainli​ons.com](http://libertybellmountainlions.com/).

Here's the link to register:

[FALL SPORTS REGISTRATION](https://www.familyid.com/methow-valley-school-district/fall-sports-2023-2041)

Go Mountain Lions,

**Michael Wilbur**

Athletic Director and Assistant Principal

Liberty Bell Junior/Senior High

Sports Registration for 2023-2024 School Year is Open!

The MVSD is pleased to announce that Piper Daugharty has been selected to serve as the new 6th grade teacher

Piper will be joining forces with Tyler Slostad, long-time MVSD teacher who will be returning from a teaching assignment abroad in Norway and Sabrina Freedman, who will be following our 5th grade students up to 6th gradePiper was born and raised in the small coastal town of Homer, Alaska. She grew up spending time commercial and sport fishing throughout college and beyond. After ten years of teaching at the university level, pursuing a career as a writer, finishing her first novel, and working at a small literary social justice nonprofit in Seattle, Piper returned to school at CWU where she obtained her Master's in Teaching degree and completed her student teaching at Olympic View Middle School in the Mukilteo School District

When asked about her new position, Piper stated, "It's an honor to be welcomed by the small and thriving community in the Methow Valley, and I can't wait to learn from the brilliance and wisdom of our next sixth grade class. I absolutely delight in middle schoolers!

When not working, Piper enjoys spending her free time exploring the outdoors hiking, biking, skiing, or swimming in the lakes and rivers. In addition to time spent outdoors, Piper loves to travel and share delicious food with friends and loved ones

Please join us as we welcome Piper Daugharty, LBHS 6th Grade Teacher!

MVSD Selects Piper Daugharty to Serve as LBHS's New 6th Grade Teacher

Dear Methow Families,

On Tuesday, July 25th, the MVSD hosted a workshop titled, "Supporting Grieving Teens Workshop." Facilitated by Oori Silberstein and Sheila Brandenburg. During the workshop, Oori and Sheila provided participants with research-based information, a list of common misperceptions, and a first-hand accounting of death, grief, and mourning from the perspective of a parent. As one[](https://methow.schoolblocks.com/)participant stated during the recent workshop, "This workshop was really helpful. We are a community that is forever changed, and we are finding our path forward, individually and collectively."

At the request of many who were not able to attend, and in advance of the Methow Valley "Teens and Young Adults" Grief Workshop, we've posted a link to the MethowFamily:[http://methowfamily.com/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fmethowfamily.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0TqMnfaYq28E0NXBfXO93gimLy7wzVxz6uwyVkPPr2BFAuSfWcQtva5MI\&h=AT2N_kroiEsld7PYNlapiIGLUTbLX3u8R4LggEdC0z0gmLMqXnKOT0FaJiP4PVjYYNUc-BLw8KOVoqlASB3b3pGl4P1zS5M2SUmENOos-BdRYod9qNHiy78ztt5s-5jw-kZFGVc&\__tn\_\_=-UK-R\&c%5B0%5D=AT0WeZjBVsrva0xZD1DvMUBACLm9lpSHIWCbNx3NlNb3phl99ntwt6Ebi_x2dH0e8DAeYYve4ca0Co8WaMsC78aR9-q-l\_7ax\_2stu5isDne4jVQD6wG7Zohhqm8oDFnEFzjb9c2t0VcdUHx8zN1JX\_9SjZpMDyNNr7o74VwsadcUNPo78ZDUYYBOzZx50G0yFYd7i9P2MF7)page where you can find a copy of the handout distributed during the Supporting Grieving Teens Workshop. We should note, we had hoped to post a copy of the recorded video for you to view. Unfortunately, we are experiencing technical difficulties with the video. We will post it if these issues can be addressed.

Looking Forward: On Wednesday, August 9th, at 6:00 pm, in the LBHS Library, the MVSD will be hosting a Methow Valley "Teens and Young Adults" Grief Workshop. Facilitated by Oori Silberstein, the workshop, as indicated in the title, is designed to provide teenagers and young adults with a safe space to mourn the loss of Kierra Reichert and make sense of the grieving process.

If you are a teenager or young adult interested in learning more about the grieving process, in support of yourself (and others), this workshop is for you. We hope you will join us.

Much love,

Tom

Methow Valley "Teens and Young Adults" Grief Workshop: Wednesday, August 9th

Dear Methow Family,

Broken-hearted and filled with a deep sense of sorrow, I am writing to you today, not only as your superintendent, but as a parent, and a community member acknowledging the tragic death of a former Community School/MVSD student and graduate, Kierra Reichert that took place involving a car accident on July 18.

[](https://methow.schoolblocks.com/)Finding myself both flooded with emotion and at a loss for words, all I can say at this time is that I will forever remember Kierra as a bright-eyed, curious and kind-hearted soul with a magnetic personality who was loved by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Last night, a twilight vigil was held at Mountain Lion Stadium, providing community members with an opportunity to exchange hugs, shed tears, and comfort one another. Undoubtedly, with many engaged in summer travel and various activities, not everyone who would have liked to attend was able to do so. And for some, who prefer to grieve privately, I'm reminded that there is no "one" right way to grieve.

What I do know is that we all benefit from having access to support and the ability to take action in support of others. With this in mind, members of our staff have been working with the Reichert family and a variety of community-based agencies to put together a website titled, "MethowFamily" containing local resources available for those needing support, as well as a couple of "action items" for those who are wishing to offer support in the form of a Meal Train site and GoFundMe account.

You can expect the website to be updated over time as the needs of the Reichart family, our students, parents, staff, and community become more clear.

MethowFamily:[http://methowfamily.com/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fmethowfamily.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3LwIoxVZDZVL4MYDAozP5nP\_2TD5ECRKmHBgc9ZI3DChUdPcxPOgQJF4A\&h=AT2N_kroiEsld7PYNlapiIGLUTbLX3u8R4LggEdC0z0gmLMqXnKOT0FaJiP4PVjYYNUc-BLw8KOVoqlASB3b3pGl4P1zS5M2SUmENOos-BdRYod9qNHiy78ztt5s-5jw-kZFGVc&\__tn\_\_=-UK-R\&c%5B0%5D=AT3QMuOOTfKETAaGGRooykafukHRrnDzLQQMBI\_1ym1viZvItdDZaT8dOa6G4ZWi\_4t-guZ5wFGVbcIZ6EBpXS3Ah133oUopKYUNTzulw-DhnG1tB56bCKlyhg5PXWlb32Bkk0\_vGQZsWSdOtwDBFF5RXAXDD_PrwPvegHIAUlvRuAW20ievBBvEk-6inXn-FAaniTyVS1AD)

In addition, we want to share a few websites that may be helpful in support of talking with your children about tragedy, death, and the grieving process:

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry:[https://www.aacap.org/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aacap.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3QoBPg4NA78nSutbFKTBVIHYTiY2yexsUAZJ-jDmeO9LRDjUSymxWcUYI\&h=AT3K3d7KNvZa3ztbNvrfSBtiNDLdkHgG3\_4kTujKEVJWeZ6RsAvbZKfXXNv-JI2yAd4b7J3ei78NIEOEaOnaEe9xhESmJTy4ZQnfJ65LYms7-3ofRbRy0Vgq3C9sMexnD1FkxSg&\__tn\_\_=-UK-R\&c%5B0%5D=AT3QMuOOTfKETAaGGRooykafukHRrnDzLQQMBI\_1ym1viZvItdDZaT8dOa6G4ZWi\_4t-guZ5wFGVbcIZ6EBpXS3Ah133oUopKYUNTzulw-DhnG1tB56bCKlyhg5PXWlb32Bkk0\_vGQZsWSdOtwDBFF5RXAXDD_PrwPvegHIAUlvRuAW20ievBBvEk-6inXn-FAaniTyVS1AD)

American Academy of Pediatrics:[https://www.aap.org/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aap.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1NfimqUozcAoUuz6l-NkFDBjNteqDMeIfZYoZSxgt3yx7qv3xmRsQWoJk\&h=AT2b3JlMY6sus-mYySeGtTzZxD-rIE2TTWfyrfXV06oN7B_S2\_shHcJU_veHSZ6aVO4\_4kVrJ9QLGNHVeeEFBtNzXKGC9eZzbe-gI2Sy7m5orQhBgwb0J7wdM77pbAJ0wGXXOfw&\__tn\_\_=-UK-R\&c%5B0%5D=AT3QMuOOTfKETAaGGRooykafukHRrnDzLQQMBI\_1ym1viZvItdDZaT8dOa6G4ZWi\_4t-guZ5wFGVbcIZ6EBpXS3Ah133oUopKYUNTzulw-DhnG1tB56bCKlyhg5PXWlb32Bkk0\_vGQZsWSdOtwDBFF5RXAXDD_PrwPvegHIAUlvRuAW20ievBBvEk-6inXn-FAaniTyVS1AD)

American Psychological Association:[https://www.apa.org/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apa.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0VRPdi2WO9xIUSSWyPW0Mw9KACiau4\_8CAo8iaElH99GccMIGiu2xYa8I\&h=AT0X2YaDAxP9nJ8a8z6qKECWgl6qT4ZaX2oYaQSIuB-28waU1WwYXm7kj3kEf63zHmlIvEDpyUQXmx6jNOjby7FnJNrlfkARE1znmx84YjGQTqsdPogAAZhCGwBImRb-YbIT26A&\__tn\_\_=-UK-R\&c%5B0%5D=AT3QMuOOTfKETAaGGRooykafukHRrnDzLQQMBI\_1ym1viZvItdDZaT8dOa6G4ZWi\_4t-guZ5wFGVbcIZ6EBpXS3Ah133oUopKYUNTzulw-DhnG1tB56bCKlyhg5PXWlb32Bkk0\_vGQZsWSdOtwDBFF5RXAXDD_PrwPvegHIAUlvRuAW20ievBBvEk-6inXn-FAaniTyVS1AD)

With much love,

Tom Venable

Superintendent, Methow Valley School District

In loving memory of Kierra Reichert

Dear Methow Valley Students, Parents, and Community Members,

I am thrilled to inform you that Elyse Darwood has been selected to serve as the LBHS Interim Principal for the 2023-24 school year.

![Elyse Darwood with her husband and young son and daughter.](https://methow.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/elyse-darwood-and-family.jpg)

When asked about the decision to name Elyse as LBHS’s new principal, a Liberty Bell student captured it well by stating, “As a classroom teacher, Mrs. Darwood appreciates me for who I am. She sees me for who I’m becoming. She helps me to believe in what’s possible. I’ll miss having her as a teacher. But, I can’t think of a better person to lead our school.” When we asked the same question of staff, one member stated, “I can’t think of a person who cares more deeply about this community, our schools, the students we serve, and their families. She is a community builder, cultivating an inclusive environment of belonging, where every student feels valued, respected, dignified, and inspired to realize their full potential.”

As a leader who embodies the vision, beliefs, and values reflected in our schools and community, Elyse will not only serve as LBHS’s Interim Principal, she will be completing a Master’s in Educational Leadership/Certification program. When asked about her new position, Elyse said, “I am honored to serve as Interim Principal at Liberty Bell and to support the goals of students, staff and families in our beloved community.”

Elyse and her husband, the owner and operator of Darwood Outfitting, live in Carlton, just down from where his family homesteaded in 1889. They have two children, both of whom attend Methow Valley Elementary. When Elyse isn’t working, she enjoys time spent with family and friends, from one end of the Valley to the other, riding horses and supporting youth sports and activities.

Looking ahead to next year, we will reassess our situation and options available to us, ranging from an open search and selection process to a full appointment. Until then, you will not hear me refer to Elyse as the “interim” principal, rather the LBHS Principal. It’s a title that is well deserved on many levels.

Please join us as we congratulate LBHS Principal, Elyse Darwood!

Sincerely,

Tom Venable\
Superintendent, Methow Valley School District

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