With more than four decades of professional experience in settings that allowed her to nurture and inspire children to thrive and fulfill their greatest potentials, Beth Ashley was first appointed to the COV Board in 2010. Beth is currently serving her second year as Board Chair, responsible for coordinating and overseeing Board functions, including committees and governance. In addition, she conducts regular and special meetings, and works closely with and supports the COV Executive Director.

 

Beth has a great affinity for the mission of Children of the Valley, accompanying her chairmanship with a depth of passion for the students and the families they serve. 

 

“As a principal in the Mount Vernon School District, I saw so many students slip into a cycle of failure because they did not have the emotional and academic tools to equip them for success,” said Beth. “The program at Children of the Valley develops students personally, socially, and academically. It supports families, inspires volunteers, and gives students the vision for their future and confidence to pursue their dreams.”

 

Throughout her career, Beth worked as a teacher and staff developer in the Lake Washington School District for nearly two decades, as assistant principal at Stanwood High School for two years, and principal at Mount Baker Middle School in Mount Vernon for nine years. Since retiring in 2010, her career path evolved into education consultancy, working with principals in Alaska, Washington, and Oregon in leadership development and school improvement.

 

Beth is an individual driven to make a difference, with particular interest in breaking the cycle of poverty. In her free-time, she enjoys writing, interior design, and home projects. She is a member of the Pacific Northwest Opera Chorus. Beth is a step-mother of three adult children, and has two grandchildren. She has been married to her husband, Mike, also a retired educator, for 20 years.

 

“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi