BG CAST 49: The Future of BGPS with Shelly Whitten and Lynnell Tsugawa-Murray; Spotlight on PVM Band with James deBra
About this episode
The episode features discussions with educational leaders about their vision for the district and highlights a local school's music program success.
In this episode of BG CAST , we sit down with Superintendent Shelly Whitten and Assistant Superintendent Lynnell Tsugawa-Murray to get to know the people leading Battle Ground and the values shaping their vision for the district. Shelly shares her three guiding principles—keeping students at the center of every decision, valuing honesty and feedback, and holding herself and others to high expectations—along with her personal story as a Battle Ground native whose life was shaped by a local teacher. Lynnell reflects on her journey from classroom teacher to district leadership and the importance of thoughtful, responsible systems that support students and staff. We also spotlight the Pleasant Valley Middle School band , joined by director James deBra , celebrating their Sweepstakes Award win at the 2025 Junior Rose Parade and the collaboration across schools that makes student music programs thrive.
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