Ava Ronning, Skagit Herald, September 23, 2026 – View article on GoSkagit.com

 

SEDRO-WOOLLEY — Children of the Valley, a free after-school program for children in need, will have a permanent site for its Sedro-Woolley program this school year thanks to a grant from PeaceHealth United General Medical Center.

 

Children of the Valley is a program based on the academic and personal needs of area children.

 

For about 20 years, it has provided elementary and middle school students with academic, social-emotional and family support.

 

The permanent site will be in a portable building at Central Elementary School thanks to a $200,000 community benefit grant from PeaceHealth United General Medical Center.

 

The organization’s Sedro-Woolley program was originally offered at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, then at Evergreen Elementary School, where it will take place this year until the Central Elementary site is available.

Children of the Valley Executive Director Flora Lucatero said she expects the permanent site at Central Elementary to be open sometime this school year.

 

The opening will depend on how long it takes to get permits.

 

Lucatero said the partnership is a win-win for the Sedro-Woolley School District and Children of the Valley, and that it will be nice for children in the program to have a playground, and more safety and supervision.

 

Central Elementary Principal Karissa Sokol said she is grateful for PeaceHealth United General Medical Center and Children of the Valley.

 

Photo (left to right): Monica Vivanco, Children of the Valley Board Member; Jessica Rodriguez, Children of the Valley Development Associate; Karissa Sokol, Principal, Central Elementary; Flora Lucatero, Children of the Valley Executive Director; Rachel Lucy, Director of Community Health, Northwest; Monique Brigham, Sedro-Woolley Chamber of Commerce Executive Director; Carrie Newby, Teacher, Central Elementary.