Every student deserves support. With your help, we make it possible.

Who We Are

The mission of the Education Foundation is to partner with the community and alumni to provide access to meet physical, social, emotional, instructional, and critical needs of the whole student.

Our Vision:

The Foundation's vision is to have a school system where everyone thrives.

Working in partnership with students, parents, alumni, and community supporters, the Education Foundation provides support for students, programs, and mental health resources that are beyond the scope of the regular school budget.

Our Purpose:

The Education Foundation for the Valley City Public Schools:

is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt philanthropic organization (Employer Identifiction Number 45-0453648)
shares a vision of enhancing student mental health support in Valley City
benefits Valley City students and staff by supporting activities not funded by tax dollars
is governed by a volunteer board of directors that represent parents, alumni, community and business leaders who seek and distribute funds and set policies

Meet the Board of Directors

Liz Ryerson - President

Kaleen Peterson - Vice President

Kaleen Peterson joined the Education Foundation board in 2023. A Valley City native and 2004 Hi-Liner graduate, she and her husband, Travis, live in the home she grew up in with their four sons and two dogs.

After earning her law degree from the University of North Dakota, Kaleen returned to Valley City and found a path in higher education. She has worked at Valley City State University for 14 years and currently serves as the Director for Student Academic Services. Her professional experience in problem-solving, communication, and supporting student success directly complements her role on the Foundation board.

For Kaleen, serving on the board is a meaningful way to give back to her hometown and continue sharing Hi-Liner Pride. She’s passionate about helping the Foundation meet the needs of Valley City Public Schools.

Josh Johnson - Superintendent

Meaghan Wharton - Executive Director

Meaghan Wharton joined the Education Foundation for Valley City Public Schools in September 2025 as the Foundation’s Director. Originally from Texas, Meaghan holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alabama.

Before joining the Foundation, Meaghan served as the Development Coordinator for Beacon Center in Watertown, South Dakota, where she played a key role in supporting survivors of domestic violence and strengthening community partnerships. Her passion for connection, collaboration, and impact drives her work in Valley City as she leads efforts to support students and engage alumni in the Foundation’s mission.

Nora Wolhart - Student Board Member

Nora Wolhart joined the Education Foundation board in 2025 as the student representative. Born in Jamestown and raised in Valley City, she’s grown up surrounded by the community she now helps represent. Nora enjoys technology, music, and arts & crafts, and she hopes to pursue a career in technology or finance after high school.

As a student representative, Nora brings a valuable student perspective to the board, helping ensure that the Foundation’s work stays connected to the real needs of her peers. She joined the board to challenge herself, try something new, and make a difference in her school community.

Misty Anderson - Board Member

Tommy Bergan - Board Member

Sharon Buhr - Board Member

Jackie Cordie - Board Member

Katie Woehl - Board Member

Katie Woehl joined the Education Foundation board in Fall 2022. Originally from Central Minnesota, she has lived in Valley City for 15 years with her husband, Derek, and their two children who attend Valley City Public Schools. When she’s not watching her kids’ activities, Katie enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

Katie started as a professor of Psychology at Valley City State University in 2010 and currently serves as Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, balancing administrative work with teaching.

Katie was inspired to join the board as a way to give back to the schools that support her own children. She enjoys advocating for student mental health and well-being and supporting programs that help every student thrive.

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