Westfield Schools Announce Shamrock Academy Class

Westfield Washington Schools is pleased to announce and welcome the members of the 2026–2027 Shamrock Academy Class. Bringing together parents, residents, business leaders, and community advocates from throughout Westfield, these individuals have committed to spending the next year learning, engaging, and exploring what it takes to serve more than 10,700 students across our growing school district.

Shamrock Academy provides community members with a unique behind-the-scenes look at Westfield Washington Schools through monthly experiences, presented by district leaders, focused on school leadership, finance, safety, operations, student support services, hiring, technology, extracurricular activities, and the district’s commitment that All Rocks Are Life Ready.

Members of the 2026–2027 Shamrock Academy Class include:

David Abdelmaseih
Devon Bloxom
Melissa Campbell
Alexis Cooks
Jolene Dailey
Alexis Fortier
Klia Fuller
Carolyn Haney
Erin Hetrick
Laura Houston
Aimee Humphrey
Nicolle Kiel
Bethany Kramer
Breanne Lee
Lora Lemon
Megan Marquardt
Kristen Mundt
Jennifer Newell
Sara Perry
Brianna Richardson
Mikki Richter
Cristy Riley
Dipak Rimal
Sara Sidery
Megan Springer
Holly Stephan
Sherry Syed
Denise Vance
Erin Watts
Kelley Wells
Millicent Woodland
Janell Zimmer

Throughout the application process, participants shared a desire to better understand curriculum and instruction, district growth, school finance, operational decision-making, and the many factors that shape the educational experience for students and families. Their curiosity and commitment to learning reflect the collaborative spirit that makes Westfield such a special community.

“The Shamrock Academy creates meaningful opportunities for community members to learn alongside us, ask questions, build relationships, and gain a deeper understanding of the work happening every day in our schools,” said Ashley Knott, Director of Community Engagement for WWS. “We are thrilled to welcome this outstanding group of leaders, parents, residents, and community partners. Their willingness to invest their time in learning about public education strengthens the connection between our schools and our community.”

Over the course of ten sessions, participants will meet district leaders, tour facilities, engage in hands-on experiences, and explore the many ways WWS prepares students for success both inside and outside the classroom.

“We believe strong schools are built through strong partnerships,” said Dr. John Atha, WWS Superintendent. “Shamrock Academy allows community members to see firsthand the dedication of our staff, the opportunities available to students, and the thoughtful planning required to serve a growing district. We are looking forward to sharing more about ourselves and getting questions and feedback from this group of community members. Shamrock Academy is a great example of how excellent schools and excellent communities go hand-in-hand.”

Those interested in joining a future Shamrock Academy cohort should keep an eye out for the application, expected to open in Winter/Spring of 2027. An easy way to learn more about this opportunity and the school district is by subscribing to the Shamrock Blast email newsletter. New editions of this community resource are published every other Thursday.