As we prepare for the 2020-21 school year, we want to share a few staffing changes taking place at Methow Valley Elementary. They include…
Ray Sanders
Ray has been selected to serve as Methow Valley Elementary’s New Physical Education Teacher.
In addition to Ray’s most recent role as second grade teacher at MVE, Ray has taught Kindergarten in Brewster and has served as a wrestling coach, as well as a youth soccer and t-ball coach.
While Ray loves teaching in the classroom setting, he couldn’t be happier to step into what he refers to as his “dream” role, “working to develop healthy, fit, active youth.” Filling a vacancy created by the retirement of longtime P.E. Specialist, Jean Koreski, Ray states, “I’m humbled and honored to be following in the footsteps of Jean Koreski. She created such a strong P.E. program over her tenure.”
Ray loves playing and being active with kids and is passionate about supporting their personal growth. He can often be found on the playground or in the “kid section” of any community event.
He lives with his wife Dani and their two lion cubs, Marcel and Rainier, now entering 3rd and 5th grade. When he’s not teaching or coaching, he likes to wrestle, bike, BBQ, and chop wood.
Meridith Dufresne
Meridith has been selected to serve as the new 2nd grade teacher, replacing Ray Sanders.
Meridith grew up and taught in Sydney Australia, and moved to the United States in 1992. Prior to teaching in the United States, she studied fine arts at Cornish College in Seattle and worked solely as an artist for ten years.
Meridith moved to the Methow Valley with her husband Garry (a third generation ‘Methow-ian’) to raise their boys. She rejoined the teaching profession and “has never looked back.” When asked about her work at MVE she responded, “I love my work here with your children and I’m very excited to be the newest member of the second-grade team.”
Max Thomas
Max has been selected to serve as MVE’s new 1st grade teacher, replacing Meridith Dufresne.
Max is originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota. He has a degree in Outdoor Education from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Since college Max has taught in National Parks, for non-profits, summer camps, and school gardens.
Most recently he has served as a paraprofessional and a long-term substitute teacher in first grade at Methow Valley Elementary. When Max is not working, he enjoys loves to run, garden, and play all kinds of sports. When asked about joining the first grade team at MVE he stated, “I am honored and excited to be a part of this wonderful education team and intend to continue for many years to come!”
Mindy Miller
Mindy will be returning to MVE in the fall, teaching 5th grade with Kelly Wiest.
The interview committee acknowledged her strong leadership, collaborative approach, classroom experience, and ability to connect with all students in her classroom.
When asked about her thoughts regarding returning to MVE, she replied, “Teaching in the Methow Valley School District is a delight. I am so thankful to continue to support the good work being done at the elementary school. I feel fortunate to join the ‘The Fifth Grade Dream Team’ with Kelly Weist and Jennifer Duguay.”
Mindy went on to state, “Since 1977 I have been lucky enough to have had an active part on this staff in some form or another. This year I will be teaching and sharing the campus with four of my grandchildren, five generations of teaching and learning in this beautiful Valley. Thanks to the extraordinary community and team of educators that make this a reality for all of us. I’m looking forward to an exceptional year.”
Please join us as we congratulate Ray, Meridith, Max, and Mindy!