Evergreen Staff Spotlight 🌟 Celebrating the People Who Make Our Schools Work 🌟

Meet Kim Jonasson – Speech-Language Pathologist

With 26 years of clinical experience, Kim Jonasson joined Evergreen in September 2024 and made a meaningful impact on student learning and success. As a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), Kim supports the speech, language, communication, and literacy needs of students through a collaborative model that brings together teachers, educational assistants, school teams, and families.

Her path to speech-language pathology grew out of a deep desire to help children and young adults, especially those with disabilities. “Speech-language pathology is the perfect blend of what I wanted in a career,” Kim explains. “It allows me to work with people in life-changing ways and be part of their growth over time.”

Most people may not realize how wide-ranging the work of an SLP is. Kim supports students from early years through senior years with speech sound production, language and vocabulary development, social communication skills, and even the use of communication devices for non-speaking students. “Speech and language skills are foundational to literacy and academic success,” she emphasizes. “Identifying and supporting communication delays early can make all the difference.”

One of Kim’s most memorable experiences was early in her career, when she provided speech therapy to a school custodian named Bob who stuttered. After a year of working together, Bob gained confidence and control over his speech—and gave the first public speech of his life at his retirement assembly. “That experience reminded me of the power of communication support,” Kim says. “Speech therapy can truly change lives.”

What Kim loves most about Evergreen is the strong, research-driven leadership and the culture of collaboration. “The Senior Administrative Team—Superintendent Scott Hill and Director of Programs and Student Services Jessica Worden—are exceptional leaders who prioritize evidence-based practice, data-informed decision-making, and meaningful professional learning. They’ve created a healthy, inclusive workplace where staff and students can thrive.”

To Kim, public education is one of the most important investments a community can make. “It is a lot more work than people realize, but its impact is immeasurable. Public education creates opportunity, supports growth, and builds our shared future.”

Thank you, Kim, for your expertise, dedication, and for helping Evergreen students find their voice—literally and figuratively.

Interviewed by trustee Penny Helgason