Who We Are

Kevin Jacka – Rural Education Leader & Network Builder

For more than 40 years, Kevin Jacka has devoted his career to rural education. His experience includes 18 years as a teacher and coach, 12 years as superintendent of a small rural district, and nine years as Executive Director of The Rural Alliance. He has also served as Lead Superintendent for the PREP Consortium, a Commissioner on the Washington State Charter School Commission, and is a co‑developer of The Rural Alliance. His career reflects deep experience across classroom teaching, coaching, district leadership, and more than a decade of guiding regional and statewide initiatives that improve outcomes for rural students.

As a co‑developer of The Rural Alliance, Kevin has spent the past nine years expanding the organization’s reach, partnerships, and impact. He is widely recognized for his ability to build strong, collaborative networks of superintendents, principals, counselors, and community partners who work together to address challenges that rural districts cannot solve in isolation. Under his leadership, the Alliance has launched regional Counselor, Superintendent, and Principal Leadership Cohorts creating a powerful professional community focused on instructional leadership, coherence, and rural‑specific problem‑solving. Kevin continues to serve as a trusted collaborator to districts, state agencies, and education organizations committed to advancing equity and excellence for rural learners

A champion of innovation, Kevin has helped rural districts integrate AI tools, blended learning models, early learning initiatives, college‑ and career‑readiness strategies, and data‑informed practices that expand opportunities for students regardless of zip code. Kevin’s work is rooted in a simple but powerful truth: rural schools flourish when they are connected, supported, and equipped with the tools and partnerships that allow students and educators to succeed.

“I have a passion for small rural education and for the students, communities, and districts we serve. The Rural Alliance gives us the opportunity to continue this work by expanding opportunities for rural students, strengthening communities, and supporting the districts that anchor them.”

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."

Dr. John Glenewinkel – Rural Education Leader, Systems Thinker & Collaborative Innovator, Educational Consultant

Dr. John Glenewinkel is a veteran educator and superintendent whose career has been defined by a deep commitment to rural schools, instructional excellence, and building systems that help students thrive. With decades of experience in public education, he has served as a teacher, principal, district leader, and superintendent, bringing a steady, student‑centered approach to every role.

John is widely recognized for his expertise in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and district improvement. His work has strengthened instructional coherence, expanded college‑ and career‑readiness pathways, and elevated academic rigor across the rural districts he has served. He is known for his ability to bring people together—teachers, administrators, board members, and community partners—to solve complex challenges through collaboration rather than isolation.

A trusted mentor to leaders across the region, John plays an integral role in The Rural Alliance’s Superintendent and Principal Leadership Cohorts, where he supports rural leaders in developing strong systems, effective teams, and sustainable improvement strategies. His calm leadership style, deep operational knowledge, and unwavering belief in the potential of rural students make him a respected voice in rural education.

John’s work continues to reflect his core belief that rural communities deserve the same opportunities, resources, and high‑quality learning experiences as any district in the state—and that strong leadership is the key to making that vision a reality. He currently works as an external consultant and thought partner with the Rural Alliance in rural, small and remote school districts.

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

• Kim Spacek, Bonners West

• Courtney Strozyk, Harrington

• Tabitha Mires, Manson

• Dan Read, Onion Creek

• Richard Conley

• John Glenewinkel

• Minevra Morales

Get in touch

We want to hear from you. The Rural Alliance thrives on connection, conversation, and community, and we welcome your inquiries and ideas. Thank you for supporting our mission and helping us expand opportunities for rural students and schools.

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