Skip To Main Content

Principal's Corner

Meet Principal Michelle Trifunovic

Administrative Staff

I grew up on a small farm near Newport, Washington, a close-knit town north of Spokane on the Idaho border. Growing up, I was actively involved in 4-H and loved showing my horses at fairs and community events. During high school, I participated in basketball, volleyball, and track and field. I graduated from Newport High School in 1988 and attended Gonzaga University, where I majored in Spanish and History. During my time at Gonzaga, I was fortunate to spend a semester abroad, studying in Valencia, Spain.

My career in education began at Holy Names Academy in Seattle, where I taught Spanish, History, and World Religions. During my ten years there, I also served as Activities Coordinator and Dean of Students. I then returned to public education, serving as Assistant Principal at Bremerton High School for two years. After moving back to the Seattle area, I spent seven years at Edmonds-Woodway High School, first as Assistant Principal and then as Principal. In 2012, I joined the Issaquah School District as Executive Director of Middle School Education. From 2016 to 2026, I had the privilege of serving as Principal of Chief Kanim Middle School. I am excited to begin this new chapter as Principal of Snoqualmie Elementary School and look forward to partnering with students, staff, and families to support every child's growth and success.

I attended Seattle University, where I earned my Master's degree and my Principal and Superintendent certifications.

My husband and I have three grown sons. Two of our sons are married, and this spring we welcomed our first grandchild, making us proud new grandparents. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, listening to music, and playing sports, as well as spending time with family and friends and taking advantage of all the wonderful opportunities the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

Meet Dean of Students Leianna Ridgeway

The image shows a smiling woman with long dark hair against a blue background.

Leianna Ridgeway joined Snoqualmie Elementary School as the dean of students in 2025. She lives in North Bend with her partner, Dan; their son; and their two pups. They love calling the beautiful Snoqualmie Valley home and spending their free time outdoors, enjoying all that this incredible area has to offer. 

Ms. Ridgeway is originally from Maryland, where she earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Psychology and Family Science from the University of Maryland. After moving to Washington, she earned a Master of Education in School Psychology from the University of Washington in 2010. 

She has worked in the Auburn School District for many years as a school psychologist, supporting the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral growth of students. She also served as a behavioral health specialist in SVSD, partnering with several schools to help build positive school cultures and strengthen systems that support students’ well-being.

Ms. Ridgeway is deeply passionate about creating inclusive, supportive school environments where every student feels seen, valued, and connected, and she is excited to be part of the SES community.