Friday, May 01, 2026
70.0°F

Knolls Vista Elementary principal forum Monday

NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 10 months AGO
by NANCE BESTON
Staff Writer | June 29, 2025 10:35 AM

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District is hosting a community forum today, June 30, at Knolls Vista Elementary to introduce candidates vying for the position of principal.  

The event, which begins at 5:30 p.m. in the school cafeteria, aims to engage parents, faculty and community members in the hiring process. 

"The hiring team wants to hear from the community, and we want to ensure that we're putting in a leader at that school who is not only a great educational leader but also a community steward," Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon said. 

Shannon emphasized the importance of community involvement in selecting a new leader for Knolls Vista Elementary.  

The selection process for the new principal will commence earlier in the day with a series of interviews and tasks designed to assess the candidates' qualifications and fit for the school's unique environment. The forum will provide an opportunity for the community to ask questions and give feedback on the candidates. 

"We encourage everyone with an invested interest in Knolls Vista to participate in the process," Shannon said. "Their voice matters, and we want to foster a collaborative atmosphere that supports our students' academic success and enhances community partnerships." 

An innovative feature of the forum will be the use of a QR code, allowing attendees to submit questions for the candidates.  

"By arriving early, community members can take advantage of this technology to ensure their questions are addressed during the event," Shannon said. "This is a chance for the community to engage directly with those who may be leading their children’s education." 

While the exact number of candidates has not been finalized, district officials anticipate a robust selection of individuals experienced in educational leadership. As the forum unfolds, attendees will have the chance to provide their impressions and feedback on each candidate, critical input that will be considered by the hiring committee. 

Shannon reiterated the district's commitment to transparency and community engagement.  

"We’ve conducted similar forums in the past, and they have proven to be invaluable in making informed decisions. We look forward to seeing an enthusiastic turnout and engaging discussions on this pivotal role in our school,” he said. 

Community members are invited to join the conversation and play an active role in the future of Knolls Vista Elementary.  

The hiring committee, alongside district officials, hopes to identify a principal who can foster an inclusive educational environment and work collaboratively with families and staff, Shannon said. 

“We encourage everybody that has an interest in what's happening at Knowles Vista to consider showing up and participating in the process, because, again, their voice matters, and this is a very integral part of the selection process,” Shannon said. 

Knolls Vista Elementary Principal Forum
Knolls Vista Elementary cafeteria
454 W. Ridge Road, Moses Lake
June 30, 5:30 p.m. 

ARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON

‘Show up’
May 1, 2026 2 a.m.

‘Show up’

Local leaders say community voices shape schools, cities and trust

WARDEN — When Warden Mayor Rosaelia Martinez looked out over the audience at the April 28 Warden City Council meeting, she didn’t see empty seats. She saw neighbors. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.” That message – that showing up matters – was echoed by city and school leaders across the Columbia Basin, many of whom say public participation directly shapes decision-making, transparency and long‑term planning.

Warden council bans kratom, considers parking regulations
April 29, 2026 5:46 p.m.

Warden council bans kratom, considers parking regulations

WARDEN — Warden City Council passed a kratom ban and special event permit Tuesday night. It also discussed its comprehensive plan update and an ordinance for parking regulations. Around 17 residents were in attendance, a fairly large showing for a Warden council meeting. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Mayor Rosaelia Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input because it really validates what a lot of people are hoping to achieve in the city. Thank you. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.”

Columbia Basin Hospital nominates Allred for board
April 29, 2026 5:30 p.m.

Columbia Basin Hospital nominates Allred for board

EPHRATA — The Columbia Basin Hospital received one application for a vacant seat on the Board of Commissioners for Public Hospital District No. 3. Dr. Lowell Allred has applied for the role. He was officially nominated for the role at the April 28 board of commissioners meeting. “Public notice of this nomination shall occur between April 29 and May 14, to allow time for registered voters residing in the hospital district to also submit nominees for the vacant position,” said Chief Executive Officer Rosalinda Kibby.