Working Together

Swan Valley School has a strong commitment to provide nurturing, supportive, and enriching learning experiences for all students. All staff are committed to provide guidance and support for all students in all settings that will enhance their learning and provide students with skills necessary to be successful in all areas of their lives including accountability, responsibility, respect of others, safety, and to feel connected to the world around them. 

One great partnership that formed during the 2024-2025 school year was the Volunteer Program created by Diane Kennedy in conjunction with the group known as the Walking Women, Amazing 41, and finally SMAAART Group (Swan-Mission Academic Art Athletic Resource Team). Working with the volunteers throughout the year was harmonious, supportive, and delightful while sharing their experiences working with the students or providing support for the staff/students.  

As a retired school educator and administrator, Diane has provided extensive support and encouragement for all of us at SVS in her quiet way. Showing up on the last day of school to help and being a supportive role for activities so that the students could enjoy themselves exhibited her loving support. Once an educator, always an educator can be said for Diane, Sharon Lamar, and Trina Arnold who have all provided their love of teaching students in unique and meaningful ways. 

Throughout the year, Renee Sanning spearheaded the Library Restoration (Updating) Project and provided pivotal support for our Librarian Erin Lipkind, as well as for Jamie Matthew our 3rd - 5th grade teacher who adopted the role of interim Librarian for weekly needs. Renee has extensive experience and qualifications working in libraries throughout her career, and what she has provided to Swan Valley School has been extraordinary and very much appreciated. Due to her unique abilities, Renee has researched historical information, made connections to retired professionals in our valley, met with community members, and provided information for grant applications for fundraising needs. This is just a few things that she has provided to our small school. Renee has also provided training and guidance for volunteers such as Gwen Feese and Kirsten Russell who have helped in our library throughout the year. 

What began as an apprehensive ideology became something stronger through trust, building relationships, and observable and profound care for our students, staff, and school community. Communities remain intact and stronger throughout the test of time by active engagement, vision, and commitment to providing a preservation of significant presence. 

I will be looking for ways to provide community involvement in the upcoming school year. Here is one resource I’m using to help guide me in a more creative and sustainable way to formulate some fun, engaging, and meaningful community events. 

Community Partnerships | Edutopia

Thank you to all of the volunteers who continue to show up and support Swan Valley School! Without you, our community would not be as amazing as it is. 

Many Blessings,
Angela Mock
Swan Valley Principal