Who We Are

For over 35 years, Kevin Jacka has been a rural educator. 18 years as a teacher and coach, 12 years as a small rural school district superintendent and five years as the Executive Director of The Rural Alliance. He was the Lead Superintendent for the PREP Consortium, a Commissioner for the State Charter School Commission and co-developer of The Rural Alliance.

"I have a passion for small rural education and the students of the communities and districts". The Rural Alliance provides an opportunity to continue our work by providing opportunities for our rural students, communities and school districts.

Kevin received his Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Arts from Eastern Washington University (the Home of the Screamin' Eagles) and pursued his superintendent certificate from Washington State University.

"I always wanted to be an educator but after college I took a lengthy detour in business.  Mid-life I decided it was time.  I went back to college, got counselor certification, and landed my first job in a small rural school in Springdale.  I planned on staying for three years and move on to a larger school I ended up staying 29 years—one of my best decisions ever.  For all the challenges, rural schools have much to offer—you know every student.  These relationships invest you not just in student success but the success of each student. I used to think schools on their own could provide the education needed for college, career, and citizenship. But preparing children for a good future takes everyone doing their share.  For equity in opportunity for all children, schools, students, parents, communities, colleges, business, and many others must be equal partners in the effort."

"Students in Springdale did not have the same opportunities for college and careers as students in larger more affluent districts.  There were no college prep classes.  Many of our students had never even visited a college, and most thought college was for other kids. It was the same at other small districts in our area.  In 2002, Springdale joined forces with 9 other districts to provide our students some of the opportunities routinely available in urban and suburban districts.  By working together, we found the resources—through cost-sharing and grants--to bring in quality academic courses and college awareness programs.  It changed our schools, and our students started to believe college was a real possibility for them.  If collaboration worked for nine districts, we thought we should reach out to others to join us.  In the first year, 2010, we had 34 districts take part.  Now it’s 79 districts along with many colleges, universities, and education organizations."

Kim Jacka, Executive Assistant

Minerva Morales completed her B.A. in Education at Central Washington University and received her MA in Administration and in Special Education.  She obtained her Superintendent credentials through Washington State University.  She was born and raised in the Yakima Valley and her career spans over 30 years in education and administration in the Yakima Valley.  She retired as Superintendent of Mabton School District in 2018.  In addition to her background in education, she served on the Yakima Valley Community Foundation as board member and Chair from 2011-2017 serving the Yakima region with philanthropic opportunities, and social services. She has a background in the development of EL programs, early childhood programs and has partnered with neighboring school districts and organizations in student and parent engagement activities.  Minerva has worked with individuals, families and organizations to optimize equitable opportunities for marginalized sub populations.  She currently works as an external consultant and thought partner with the Rural Alliance in rural, small and remote school districts.

Our board

Present Superintendents

• Dale Bonfield, Asotin-Anatone

• Don Baribault, Northport

• Tabitha Mires, Waterville & Palisades

• Dan Read, Elmira & Onion Creek

• Kim Spacek, Chelan

• Don Vanderholm, Lind-Ritzville

• Chuck Wyborney, Hunters (Columbia)

Former Superintendents

• Minerva Morales, Mabton

• Dick Conley, Bonners Ferry

• Kevin Jacka, Mary Walker

• John Glenewinkel, Curlew

Get in touch

We at The Rural Alliance want to connect with you. Please feel free to reach out with any inquiries you may have. Your support is greatly appreciated.

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