On March 12, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the March 2024 Employee and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!
Employee of the Month Donna Allen, View Ridge Middle School
Donna Allen is the epitome of what it means to be a View Ridge Heron. If you ask anyone in our building about Mrs. Allen, they will tell you that she is steadfast, supportive, loving, passionate, and the ultimate teammate. She can have hard conversations in a supportive way and can turn even the toughest day into a bright one. She stepped up in a time of great need to fill a challenging position and has had a tremendous impact on our entire school community. She pours her heart and soul into supporting our families, students, and staff. If you sat outside her office throughout the course of the day, you would see a never-ending stream of kids and staff coming in to get words of encouragement, a snack, to be coached up, to participate in a restorative conversation, or just to have a pep talk around being our best selves. She walks the halls with a beaming smile and never stops being a pillar of consistency. Mrs. Allen’s laughter is infectious and echoes throughout our building. If there is a holiday or something special coming up, Mrs. Allen will leave her words of encouragement in the form of a Bitmoji note with a small treat for each staff member, reminding them just how special they are to our collective View Ridge family.
Whether she’s arriving early in the morning to snag kids for Spud Buddies and picking up coffees for our weekly postcard winners or working late evenings giving tours to new families and putting together homework help groups for students in need, Donna is always putting in the extra efforts that make View Ridge such a special place to work and learn. Donna’s peers often remark how her strong instructional experience paired with her knowledge of how to support kids makes her the perfect fit for our counselor position.
One of Donna’s peers said “people are constantly drawn to Donna when they are in need of support. She is an empathetic listener who is also willing to offer advice, support, self reflection, generate creative ideas, or help problem solve. Her strong work ethic, capacity for compassion, and unwavering desire to help those around her achieve high standards make her excellent at what she does. She is a model and comfort to staff and students alike!”
Mrs. Allen leads with both her heart and her head and View Ridge would not be the same without her. Thank you, Mrs. Allen, for being the amazing person you are!
Emmie Capeloto, Preschool at the Early Learning Center
Emmie is the biggest helper there is. She is always willing to take a friend's hand in line or put something away for a teacher. Her kindness and compassion for others is admirable and it continues to grow the longer she is at the ELC with us. Emmie is an incredible role model to her peers and a ray of sunshine for her teachers. Her teachers say, "Emmie has such a big heart! Selfless, caring, and hardworking are just a few ways to describe what a great student she is. Emmie consistently puts the best interest of others ahead of her own. She’s a friend to all and offers a helping hand to any student or teacher in need. Emmie is a great representation of the Hashbrowns’ three Rs.”
Emmie makes the Early Learning Center a better place because of her love and compassion towards all students and staff and we are excited to see how she changes the world.
Mae Jones, 4th grade at South Ridge Elementary School
Mae Jones impresses staff every day with her focus in class, her work ethic, her resilience when faced with a tough academic challenge, and her determination to learn and do her best work. Mae conducts herself with poise and resilience no matter where she is on campus. Mae is a student who leads by example with patience, kindness, and a willingness to help others. She routinely sees the good in others and goes out of her way to make staff and students smile. She brings love and laughter to those around her, and her laughter is contagious! Mae is always willing to include others whether it be in group projects, classroom activities, or out at recess. Mae isn't afraid of tough conversations around friendship and tries her best to find solutions.
Brooklyn Caldwell, 4th grade at Union Ridge Elementary School
Brooklyn Caldwell embodies the Tater Tot way. She approaches every task with determination and diligence. Known for her resilient and strong work ethic, Brooklyn tackles challenges head-on and never gives up. Beyond her academic achievements, Brooklyn's kindness and compassion shine through daily. Even when tasks are challenging, Brookly puts in the hard work.
Her teacher, Mrs. Kennedy, wrote “Brooklyn is sweet and everyone’s buddy.”
In music class, Brooklyn knows how to be respectful, responsible, and resilient. Ms. Golden shared, “Brooklyn is always on task in music. She is a hard worker who doesn't let mistakes deter her.”
Kai Robinson, 6th grade Sunset Ridge Intermediate School
Kai Robinson is a delight to have in class. His positive attitude and willingness to get involved add so much to the culture of our class and Sunset Ridge Intermediate as a whole. He is a great example of a dedicated learner. He completes his assignments with detail and accuracy and then looks for additional opportunities to learn through extensions and projects. He does his best even when things get difficult. He is kind and includes others. Kai’s work ethic, respectful attitude, and leadership make him an excellent choice for Student of the Month.
Cameron Branch, 7th Grade at View Ridge Middle School
Respectful, Responsible and Resilient are all characteristics that Cameron Branch exemplifies well, and all of his teachers agree that he is a pleasure to have in class. Mr. Tena shared “Cameron is a very polite student, is always looking out for his peers and following classroom expectations. He does a great job of engaging in learning and doing his best work!”
STEM teacher Mr. Hankins wrote “Cameron consistently demonstrates responsibility by managing his assignments efficiently and with creativity. Additionally, his kindness towards his peers stands out. He consistently contributes a positive vibe to the class, akin to a beam of sunlight, and he’s always eager to greet others with a warm hello and a friendly high five.”
Mrs. Stephens, Cameron’s Washington State History teacher adds, “He works hard, even when the going gets tough. His big heart and dedication to learning are amazing to see every day!”
In Science, Mr. Jequinto noted that “Cam is an inquisitive kid and a hard worker. His presence and joy is shared with everyone around him.
Mrs. Hankins wrote that “Cameron is a wonderful art student! He works hard in class and enjoys being creative. He works well with his peers and always has a positive attitude. Cameron always has a smile to share with everyone and his positive attitude is contagious! ”
Keep up the great work, Cameron!
Natalie Evans, 11th grade at Ridgefield High School
There are few students at Ridgefield High School who are willing to take on and lead any task or project with a smile on their face and a selfless dedication, expecting nothing in return. Natalie Evan is this student and so much more! Throughout Natalie’s time at RHS, it has been abundantly clear that she possesses a unique blend of qualities that make her stand out. As a dedicated student enrolled in three AP classes, Natalie consistently demonstrates responsibility, hard work and determination. Additionally, Natalie displays exemplary leadership skills in National Honor Society and DECA and a strong sense of school spirit and passion in ASB.
Equally impressive is Natalie’s baseball resume. Yes, you read that right, baseball! As the first female at Ridgefield High School to play on the school’s baseball team, she is breaking barriers and forging a path for those behind her. Natalie coaches for the Baseball for All program and has played with the 23U Team USA female baseball team. Baseball has taken Natalie all over the world, but her passion is in coaching and mentoring young women to build the sport in their community. Natalie’s ability to persevere and thrive in the face of adversity is due to the unwavering support and consistency provided by her mom, who she describes as her biggest role model.
Natalie exudes a genuine passion for life that is truly infectious. Whether it be in the classroom, on the playing field, or in her interactions with others, Natalie approaches every endeavor with enthusiasm and energy. She is driven by the desire to leave Ridgefield High School better than she found it. This passion not only drives Natalie to excel, but also serves as an inspiration to her peers.
After high school, Natalie hopes to pursue a degree in sports management with the ultimate goal of working for a Major League Baseball team. Natalie is an exceptional student and her impact on our school community has been significant and is sure to be long lasting. Thank you, Natalie, for all you bring to Ridgefield High School. We are so lucky you are a Spudder!
Aileen Castillo, 12th grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy
Aileen Castillo is the poster child for why Wisdom Ridge Academy exists. Aileen had 12.5 credits after completing her junior year of high school. An incoming senior should have 18 credits to be on track to graduate with her cohort classmates. Through a commitment of completing summer school courses, doing credit recovery during the school year, taking and passing the Spanish language competency exam, and enrolling in the CAPS program at RHS, we are very proud to tell the entire world that Aileen is now on track to graduate and will be walking across the stage to get her diploma on June 7, 2024! In essence, Aileen completed two years of school in one summer and one school year.
Aileen's dedication and positive contributions, both academically and through her kindness, make her a standout student. It's particularly commendable that she balances her responsibilities at home, assisting with six younger siblings while remaining focused on her goals. Aileen's ability to embody the values of Wisdom Ridge Academy and the Ridgefield CAPS Program is truly inspiring.
In addition to balancing a more-than-full-course load, Aileen has found time to learn piano, and now plays and sings at her church. She also volunteers her time every Tuesday and Thursday to help out at South Ridge Elementary School, and she hopes to go into elementary education or the medical field after high school. Eileen lists graduating on time and completing her required courses as her greatest accomplishment to date. We are proud of Aileen, who represents other students at WRA who are thriving despite a challenging past, and we are honored to present her as our March Student of the Month.
Students, families and community members are invited to learn about careers in southwest Washington at Ridgefield School District’s inaugural Industry Hiring Fair on Wednesday, March 13 at Ridgefield High School in the main gym. Students and community members who attend the fair will be able to learn about career paths by talking with local employers about available job opportunities.
Come to the industry fair with your current resume or arrive early to participate in a resume writing workshop. The event, sponsored by RSD, Goodwill Job Connection, and WorkSource Washington, will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ridgefield High School, 2630 S. Hillhurst Rd. in Ridgefield. The resume writing workshop will be from 3 to 6 p.m. in the commons.
Many local employers will be in attendance to discuss employment opportunities along with working conditions and special requirements. Please visit https://www.ridgefieldsd.org/o/high-school/page/industry-fair for more information and to see an up-to-date list of employers who will be in attendance.
We hope you’ll join us for this great opportunity at Ridgefield High School. Please contact College and Career Specialist Tamara Hoodenpyl at (360) 619-7255 or tamara.hoodenpyl@ridgefieldsd.org with any questions.
The Ridgefield School District is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. Jenny Rodriquez as its next superintendent, effective July 1, 2024. The agreement is subject to final contract negotiations and background checks; and authorization of the board president to work with the district’s legal counsel and search consultants to negotiate a mutually acceptable contract in accordance with the parameters established by the Board.
Dr. Rodriquez brings over two decades of extensive experience in public education, spanning various administrative, certificated, and classified roles, and a demonstrated commitment to student success.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jenny Rodriquez as our next superintendent,” said Brett Jones, president of Ridgefield School District’s Board of Directors. “Her proven leadership and unwavering commitment to student success make her a great fit for Ridgefield. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated teachers, supportive parents, and engaged community members whose invaluable input has played a crucial role in this decision. Together, we look forward to continuing to build a bright future for all Ridgefield students."
Dr. Rodriquez's professional journey in education began as an elementary school secretary and attendance clerk in Richland, WA. She continued pursuing her passion for education by earning her bachelor’s degree in history from Washington State University. Subsequently, she completed a master’s degree in teaching and a doctorate in educational leadership, both from WSU.
While earning her advanced degrees in education, Dr. Rodriquez taught middle and high school social studies and English Language Arts. Later, Rodriquez assumed leadership roles as a high school principal and later as the executive director of teaching and learning in the Pasco School District in 2013. Since 2021, Dr. Rodriquez has served as the assistant superintendent of teaching and learning in the Yakima School District.
In her application for the superintendent position, Dr. Rodriquez emphasized her core values of honesty, transparency, and continuous learning. She stated, “Foundational to my work is a passion and commitment to the success of every student.” Dr. Rodriquez is known for her clear, direct, and kind communication style, which she believes fosters an environment where every individual is encouraged to thrive and contribute their unique skills and talents.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Jenny Rodriquez to the Ridgefield School District family.
The Ridgefield School District is pleased to announce the three finalists to become the district’s next superintendent and is inviting the public to meet them at a series of public forums.
Each day from Tuesday, February 27th through Thursday, February 29th, one candidate per day will be available to meet with the public from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the View Ridge Middle School Commons. Those in attendance can meet the candidate and ask questions, and the district will collect feedback from the community regarding their thoughts on each candidate.
Each of these forums will also be broadcast via YouTube Live on the district’s YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/RidgefieldSchoolsWA, and the recordings will be posted to watch on demand for anyone unable to attend the forums in person.
Below is the schedule of the candidates, as well as a brief bio for each candidate:
Tuesday, February 27
Dr. Wesley Benjamin, Executive Principal of Forney High School
Forney Independent School District in Forney, Texas
After completing a bachelor's degree in Theology from Ouachita Baptist University, Dr. Wesley Benjamin started his career in education as a high school physics and engineering teacher at Forney High School in Forney, Texas. Dr. Benjamin continued his education by earning master’s and doctorate degrees in Educational Leadership while transitioning to working as a learning specialist, a director of innovation, an assistant principal, and is currently the executive principal at Forney HS.
“Throughout my career at Forney Independent School District in Forney, Texas, I've experienced its growth from 8,500 to over 17,000 students," Dr. Benjamin wrote in his application. "I've helped to lead numerous bond campaigns, securing over $2 billion with strong voter support. This journey has sharpened my skills in strategic planning, fiscal management, and community engagement, essential for guiding a district through significant growth.”
“My leadership philosophy centers on building trust, collaboration, empowerment, and developing capacity in those around me. Throughout my career, I have focused on assembling and nurturing high-performing teams, recognizing and fostering individual strengths, and seamlessly integrating them into our overarching mission of educational excellence. This philosophy has been pivotal in creating a cohesive, goal-oriented culture that consistently delivers exceptional results.”
Wednesday, February 28
Asha Riley, Assistant Superintendent
Woodland Public Schools
Asha Riley has a bachelor’s degree in early learning education from Concordia University and began working as an elementary school teacher at Fisher’s Landing Elementary School in the 2000-2001 school year. While still working as an elementary teacher in the Woodland and Evergreen school districts and as a professional development administrator for EPS, Riley completed a master’s degree in education from City University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Washington State University.
Since then, Riley has been an elementary school principal, a director of teaching and learning, and an assistant superintendent in Woodland, WA while completing her superintendent credential from Washington State University in 2014.
“My leadership style is rooted in integrity, transparency, and optimism," Riley wrote in her application. "I prioritize building trust within a team by consistently demonstrating honesty, reliability, and a strong moral compass. I believe in leading by example and maintaining focus on doing what is best for kids. I am deeply committed to the success and well-being of every student.”
“Encouraging collaboration is also central to my leadership philosophy as I recognize the value of harnessing the collective strengths of a team. With a clear district vision, I believe I can inspire positive change and implement strategic initiatives that enhance the overall educational experiences for all students.”
Thursday, February 29
Dr. Jenny Rodriquez, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning
Yakima School District
Dr. Jenny Rodriguez first started working in education as an elementary school secretary and attendance clerk in Richland, WA. She completed her bachelor’s degree in history from Washington State University, and subsequently completed a master’s degree in teaching and then a doctorate in educational leadership from WSU. While working on her advanced degrees, Dr. Rodgriguez taught middle and high school social studies and English Language Arts before becoming a high school principal and then the executive director of teaching and learning in the Pasco School District in 2013. Since 2021, Dr. Rodriguez has been the assistant superintendent of teaching and learning in the Yakima School District.
“I have 20-plus years of successful service in public education, in administrative, certificated, and classified roles, at all levels of the education system," Dr. Rodriguez wrote in her application. "Foundational to my work is a passion and commitment to the success of every student.”
“My core values are honesty, transparency, and continuous learning. In all that I do and with everyone with whom I work, I am known for clear, direct, and kind communication. Ensuring my words and actions align is core to who I am, and I believe we achieve the greatest success when each person is encouraged to show up as they are and build on their unique skills and talents to create something truly special together.”
All members of the public are invited to these forum. Ridgefield School District staff are of course welcome to attend, but there will also be other opportunities exclusively for staff members to meet with the candidates. Those interested in submitting a question prior to these forums are asked to please complete this Google form.
At the conclusion of these forums, community members are encouraged to provide feedback about these candidates by completing this Google form.