District introduces new director of special services and the 2025–26 student board representatives

Issaquah School District officials on Wednesday introduced Jen Casarino as the district’s new director of special services and welcomed the 2025–26 cohort of student board representatives.

Doctor Shereen Carver introduced Casarino, saying: “I am pleased to introduce to you Jen Casarino, our new director of special services. Miss Casarino brings over 2 decades of distinguished leadership in public education with specialized experience in special education, early learning, and inclusive program development.” Casarino, addressing the board and student representatives, said: “It's a pleasure, to be here, and I'm so very, excited to be a part of this team.”

The board also introduced the student representatives for 2025–26 from each comprehensive high school and Gibson: Milo Walsh (Gibson), Micah Payow (Gibson), Ava (Issaquah High, returning rep), Rex Garner (Mishka High), Krish Parashar and Laya Dilip (Liberty), Nila Natarajan and a Skyline junior (Skyline). Student representatives spoke briefly about their priorities for the year; for example, Milo Walsh said he hopes the board continues the push for financial literacy and other life skills.

Why it matters: the director of special services heads programs that serve students with disabilities and coordinates early learning and inclusion initiatives; a named leader signals administrative continuity. Student representatives act as liaisons to the board, providing regular student perspective in board meetings and participating in board work sessions.

Next steps: Casarino will transition into the director role while district leaders said Dr. King will transition into the integrated director of MTSS role. Student representatives were thanked for participating in a pre‑meeting onboarding session and invited to participate in upcoming board town halls.