By Marcy Stamper
The Methow Valley Community School is adding staff and shifting responsibilities for the next school year.
After 15 years with the Community School – and five as head of school – Deb Jones-Schuler will return to the classroom to teach health and to support a new music program. She will share administrative duties with Keri Miles, who joins the staff this year and will also teach math and art.
In addition to Miles, the school welcomes another new instructor, Nancy Juergens, who will support math and lead outdoor education for third through fifth graders.
Natalie Otto, in her third year at the school, will lead the first- and second-grade students. Hana Baker, returning for her seventh year, is the crew leader for third, fourth and fifth graders. Nora Jacobs, in her second year at the school, will assist Baker.
For the 2013-14 school year, Miles will serve as interim director, focusing on parent and community support, fundraising and program development. Miles has a background as an educator as well as 15 years of experience in business management, marketing and communications. She has also led local and regional organizations.
Jones-Schuler will focus on staff and student support and will manage state administrative requirements for the school.
“Deb remains committed to helping the Community School continue to thrive, and will stay on through the school year to ensure a smooth transition to the years ahead,” said the school in a press release.
Founded in 1999, the Community School emphasizes expeditionary learning, which is based on the idea that students learn best when they are actively involved in hands-on experiences. The school takes a holistic approach to education, in which children and adults come together to learn from and teach each other, preparing students to be contributing members of the greater community and world.
The Community School is accepting applications for enrollment for the coming school year. For more information about their curriculum, scholarship program and staff, visit their website at www.mvcommunityschool.org, or call 996-4447.
