Johnna Knoerr has been named the new director of the Whitefish Community School.

Knoerr said she’s excited to join the school because “not only does the school provide a safe, nurturing, creative environment, but it also has a strong sense of community that is unmatched in the Flathead Valley.”

“The parents, families, kids, and staff are dedicated to making this a wonderful place for children to learn, explore, and create lifelong friendships,” she said in a prepared release.

The previous director Jessy Mathews left for a new opportunity in Missoula this summer and the board began a search for a new director. The board was excited to hire an experienced candidate with a personality as dynamic and vibrant as Knoerr’s, according to the school.

Knoerr was born and raised in Missoula, and recently moved to the Flathead Valley after living in several different states across the country. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, and then went on to earn a master of social work degree from the University of Montana in Missoula. Knoerr has experience running nonprofit programs and working with children and families from diverse backgrounds. She loves spending time with her family, friends, and her dog, Oscar.

Knoerr is excited to be working with the school’s lead teacher, Hailey Mortenson, who has been in her role as lead teacher for one year, according to the school.

Mortenson looks forward to working with Knoerr.

“Johnna is wonderful,” Mortenson said in a release. “She is so supportive to the families and staff at WFCS. I am thrilled to be working alongside her.”

In addition, the Whitefish Community School is hosting “A Night to UnWINEd” on Oct. 14, from 6:30-9:30 p.m., at Casey’s. The event is open to the public and tickets will be available to purchase from Casey’s and the school. The event includes wine tasting, food, live music, a raffle and a silent auction.

For more information, call 862-1216.