As part of our Engage IRL initiative with Launch NW, five SPS staff members will support connecting students with activities. These Engagement Navigators are assigned to schools based on the five high school feeder patterns of our district, which allows families to build a sense of belonging and community as students advance from kindergarten through senior year.
We’re introducing a Navigator every day this week. Watch this space!
Aaliyah Ashley-Meek, Shadle Park Feeder Pattern Engagement Navigator
SCHOOLS: Shadle Park, Flett, Salk, Balboa, Browne, Indian Trail, Linwood, Madison, Ridgeview, Westview, Woodridge, Montessori
Where were you before you came into your current role?
For the past seven years, I worked in Spokane Public Schools under a college and career readiness federal grant program called GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs). I served the Class of 2023, starting in 7th grade at Salk Middle School through their first year post-graduation from Shadle Park High School.
I was born and raised in Spokane and – ironically – I grew up running the halls of the old Salk where my mom taught for 22 years! I attend Western Washington University (Go Viks!) where I received my bachelor’s degree in Human Services and worked as the Youth Engagement/Community Relations Intern for the WWU Athletics for four years.
During my time with GEAR UP, I worked on my master's at Whitworth in Administration and Nonprofit Leadership, and spent my summer as the Day Camp Director for the YMCA until 2022.
Why were you interested in being an Engagement Navigator for Spokane Public Schools?
I was drawn to the Navigator position as someone who had great coaches and advisors in my life, because I understand firsthand the positive impact that involvement in activities can have on a student’s life. I saw this role as an opportunity to connect with and support students and families in a way that has been lacking.
What were your extracurricular passions when you were a student, and how did those experiences shape who you are today?
I started playing basketball and volleyball at a young age, continuing through middle and high school. My involvement in these activities taught me essential life skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management, which have been invaluable in my adult life. More significantly, the coaches and ASB and club advisors who guided me played a crucial role in shaping who I am today and inspiring me to become the best version of myself.
What are you most excited about for the 2024-25 school year?
I'm really excited about the "Engage in Real Life" initiative and the opportunity to collaborate with families and staff to create more chances for our students to get involved. Most importantly, I am excited about getting to build strong relationships with students, families, and staff, fostering a supportive community where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and explore new opportunities.
This year, we’re asking every SPS student to complete their IRL Plan to share what activities excite them. Our goal is for every kid to participate in an activity outside of school every day. Learn more at Engage IRL.