Private school teachers, administrators, and other professionals serve on state committees and workgroups to offer support and perspective on a wide range of education topics. We thank them for their dedicated service. The giving of their time and expertise benefits every private school
Washington State Board of Education
Jan Marie Brown demonstrates an unwavering commitment to representing private schools thoughtfully and effectively through her dedicated service on the State Board of Education. Her steady leadership, insightful perspective, and collaborative approach ensure that private school voices are consistently and respectfully included in important statewide discussions.
Private School Advisory Committee, Chair
Debbie Schindler, Head of School at Pacific Christian Academy, cultivates impactful dialogue between the state and private school leaders. PSAC provides the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction with a private-school sounding board for all its departments. Debbie’s thoughtful approach helps build trust, strengthen communication, and foster meaningful partnerships between private schools and the agency.
Dept. of Children Youth and Families (DCYF) Early Learning Advisory Council
Jen Sandvig, Assistant Head of School & Childcare Director at Sagebrush Montessori, brings a thoughtful and well-rounded perspective to the DCYF Early Learning Advisory Council. Her depth of experience, practical insight, and approachable style allow her to navigate complex discussions with both professionalism and authenticity. Jen consistently advocates for independent schools with clarity, balance, and a genuine commitment to high-quality early learning programs.
DCYF Providers Support Subcommittee, Co-Chair
David Mayer, Director of Early Childhood Education for the Catholic Archdiocese, is widely respected for his exceptional knowledge, insight, and thoughtful approach to complex issues in education. He brings a rare combination of intellectual depth, strategic thinking, and practical wisdom that elevates every conversation and committee he serves on.
DCYF Provider Supports Subcommittee, Representative
Dee Hirsch, Chair of the Pacific Northwest Montessori Association and Head of School at Discovery Montessori School, has long been a steadfast advocate for private and Montessori education. She brings a sharp, systems-level understanding paired with a thoughtful and direct approach that consistently strengthens dialogue and decision-making. Dee is known for asking incisive questions and maintaining a principled commitment that ensures key issues are fully examined and well understood.
DCYF Staff Qualifications Workgroup
Angela Leyba, Principal at Ridge Christian Academy, brings a wealth of experience, thoughtful perspective, and deep understanding to the Staff Qualifications Work Group. She consistently contributes meaningful insights, asks important questions, and demonstrates a strong willingness to speak up in ways that strengthen the group’s discussions and decision-making
Washington Interscholastic Activities Association, Honorary Board Member
Mark DeJonge, Director of Athletics at Bellevue Christian School, has served as a trusted and highly respected voice within the WIAA community. His ability to identify potential challenges, ask important questions, and advocate for fair processes has strengthened collaboration between private and public school representatives.
OSPI School Safety and Student Well-Being Advisory Committee
Mike Patello, Facilities and Maintenance Manager at Christ the King Parish School, has served in this role for several years and brings extensive experience in school health and safety. His practical expertise and steady perspective contribute meaningfully to the work. The school community deeply appreciates his continued dedication and service.
Professional Educator Standards Boards – Teacher and Admin Representatives
This academic year, these private school educators have been appointed to serve a 2 or 3-year term advising a college or university education degree program.
- Assumption Parish Catholic School — Brian Hull, Principal
- Bellarmine Preparatory School — Kelly Goodsell, President
- Centralia Christian School — Peter Larson, Principal
- Christ the King Catholic School — Michelle Santo, 2nd Grade Teacher
- Hamlin Robinson School — Randi Huard, Teacher
- New Horizon School — Richard Nordland, Special Education
- Shoreline Christian School — Adam Haulter, Secondary Math Teacher
- St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School — Kathleen Mercer, 2nd Grade Teacher
- St. Michael Parish School — Gretchen Pitkin, 3rd Grade Teacher
- Silverwood School — Lisa Heaman, Head of School
- Three Rivers Christian School — Daniel Flan, Elementary Principal
- University Child Development School — Carissa Osborn, Teacher
- University Child Development School — Jami Davis, 1–5 Spanish Teacher
