Readiness To Learn: A Legacy of Resilience, A Future of Partnership
The 2025/2026 school year is over, we look toward a summer season, we are reflecting on the unique strength of the South Whidbey community. At Readiness To Learn (RTL), our mission remains clear: to support South Whidbey students and families and ensure that everyone has the resources and relationships they need to thrive. Today, we are sharing a leadership transition that has been years in the making—one rooted in intentionality, longevity, and a deep commitment to those we serve.
The window of the Family Resource Center reminds us to, “Be Love in Beloved Community”, circa 2020
A Legacy of Community Innovation
Gail LaVassar has been the visionary leader of RTL since 2003, building the organization from a state program into the independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit it is today. Under her guidance, RTL has served as a vital community incubator, identifying critical gaps and creating sustainable solutions for kids and families on South Whidbey. The core of our work continues to provide an essential link for students and families when they need it most. By offering consistent support and resources, we create the stability necessary for success at school and in life.
Gail is now stepping away from her day-to-day leadership role, and we are profoundly grateful for the legacy and the care she has cultivated within our community. We are delighted that she will continue her critical work with South Whidbey School District as the Director of the South Whidbey Community Center and oversee services like McKinney-Vento, ensuring continued collaboration with RTL. She will also be available to advise our new leaders, providing a bridge of institutional knowledge as we move into this next chapter.
The old, old Family Resource Center circa 2012
Scenes from the old Family Resource Center, 2015
A Transition Rooted in Shared Vision
We are excited to announce that the leadership of RTL will move forward under the Co-Directorship of Cailyn Murray and Ali McManus. As sisters, Cailyn and Ali share a unified vision for RTL’s future, balancing deep community roots with high-level strategic growth:
Cailyn Murray has been an integral part of our operations since 2016 and a Co-Director alongside Gail for the past 2.5 years. A seasoned Human Services professional, Cailyn will continue to lead our direct services, programs, and community outreach, ensuring our core relationships with families and school and community partners remain seamless.
Ali McManus served on the RTL Board of Directors from 2018–2023, bringing a strategic understanding of our mission and fiscal health. Ali holds a Master’s in Nonprofit Leadership and a Master’s in Education. In her new role, she will focus on systems, operations, and long-term vision, supporting our expert human service team with an analytic eye for efficacy.
Cailyn and Ali, working together to produce a living room production of “Grease” circa 1985
Continuity of Care and Purpose
Our partnership with the School District and the South Whidbey Community Center remains the cornerstone of our work. Gail will continue to be available to Cailyn and Ali in an advisory capacity, ensuring the "formal link" between education and human services remains strong.
The urgency of our mission is clear: 10% of South Whidbey students were reported homeless or unstably housed last year, three times the state average of 3.8%. Through our Family Resource Center in Langley, our Academic Coach in the schools, and programs like Holiday House and Back to School, we will continue to provide the safe, confidential, and proactive support families rely on when they need it most.
Join Us in Celebrating the Momentum
Change, when done with intention, creates growth. We are not just celebrating a transition; we are celebrating the strength of an organization built to serve for the long haul.
Save the Date: Please join us for a Community Meet & Greet on August 26 from 4 -6 pm at the South Whidbey Community Center to honor Gail’s legacy and welcome Cailyn and Ali into their new roles.
With gratitude,
The Board of Directors, Readiness To Learn
Gail LaVassar | Outgoing Co-Executive Director
Cailyn Murray | Co-Executive Director
Ali McManus | Incoming Co-Executive Director
