Meet our School Board Directors

Board Chair
Position 5
2027
Email Chair Scott

Serving on the school board since elected in November, 2003, Sam holds a Bachelor of Science in Education (Mathematics) from Missouri State University (1973) and a Master of Science in Systems Management (Information Systems) from the University of Southern California (1987). Sam retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the US Army in 1994 after 21 years of service. He retired from Pierce College in June 2019 after teaching Computer Information Systems courses since 1998.  Sam and his wife, Bev, have three sons: Sammy (graduated SHS in 2011; Arizona State University, May 2015; Baylor Law School, Waco, TX, August 2019), Ben (graduated SHS in 2014; University of Utah, May 2018; Uniformed Services University medical school, May 2022, currently in his general surgery residency at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center), and James (graduated SHS in 2016; Pierce College, June 2018; Washing State University's Kinesiology Master's program, May 2023).
 

Board Vice Chair
Position 3
2025
Email Director Tinsley

Melanie was born and raised in the Pacific NW in West Seattle, and has been a resident of Steilacoom since 2005. She graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelor's degree in Political Science, and holds an extensive background in finance, banking, management/leadership, and entrepreneurship. Currently, she works as a Real Estate Professional/REALTOR for RE/MAX Exclusive. She and her husband, Josh (a 2002 graduate of SHS), are dedicated parents to their 3 young daughters (Lily, Annie, and Hannah), and are passionate about being involved in the schools and community. Melanie is currently involved with the Cherrydale PTA, Kiwanis Club of Steilacoom, Steilacoom Chamber, the Chambers Creek Foundation, and other community groups.

 

Board Director
Position 1
2025
Email Director McDonald

Dr. Jennifer McDonald is a clinical research psychologist for the U.S. Army. She earned her Ph.D. (2010) and Master of Science (2004) in Psychology from Washington State University, and a Bachelor of Arts (1999) in Psychology and Spanish from Utah State University. Jen has three children in the district and is a former PTA Board Member. She has a passion for mental health, closing achievement gaps, and advocating for kids with learning and behavior disorders. She currently serves on the Washington State Dyslexia Advisory Council as the School Board Representative. Jen is an active duty military spouse and has lived in DuPont for the past 7 years.


 

Board Director
Position 2
2025
Email Director Lewis

Patrick earned a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Restaurant Management from New Mexico State University, and has 31 years of experience in the restaurant industry. He is a DuPont resident who has served the school community through roles in the PTA as well as district budget, levy, and bond committees. He has also given his time in the community coaching youth sports and volunteering at numerous local community events. Patrick desires to give the district’s children every opportunity to learn in a safe and fun environment, and believes education is the most important thing we can provide our youth. He and his wife Lizz have two children attending SHSD schools.

Board Director
Position 4
2027
Email Director Rohrer

Loujanna “LJ” works at the Washington State House of Representatives as a committed legislative assistant, working on state policy and constituent issues. She's worked as a Council Assistant for Pierce County Council Chairman, focused on constituent-related issues and policy developments to reach solutions. Such professional experiences have made her a resourceful community liaison and advocate. LJ is a proud graduate of Steilacoom High School and earned her BA in Communications from Western Washington University. Loujanna is a volunteer in our community, starting the WyldLife (YoungLife) program at Pioneer Middle School, and serving as a member of Kiwanis Club of Steilacoom and the Steilacoom Historical Museum Association. She is also a Jennifer Dunn Leadership Institute graduate. She is dedicated to the success of community programs that serve our youth, and is an active member of Champion Center DuPont. Loujanna and her husband, Jeff, have 4 children: Isabelle, Emmy, Luke, and Raquel, two of whom currently attend SHSD schools.