Summary

The Metropolitan King County Council on Tuesday unanimously confirmed the appointments of Federal Way resident Maria Fernanda Martinez Novoa and Auburn resident and city councilmember Yolanda Trout to the King County Children and Youth Advisory Board.

Story

The Metropolitan King County Council on Tuesday unanimously confirmed the appointments of Federal Way resident Maria Fernanda Martinez Novoa and Auburn resident and city councilmember Yolanda Trout to the King County Children and Youth Advisory Board. Maria’s appointment is for a 3-year-term expiring on January 31, 2025, and Yolanda’s is for a partial term expiring on January 31, 2023. 

“As a family navigator lead for Childhaven, Maria has insight into the struggles our families in King County are dealing with on a daily basis,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, who sponsored Ms. Novoa’s appointment. “With a focus on early childhood special education, Maria can provide an important perspective on how King County can better serve children with special needs and their families, as well as the community at large.”

“Through her involvement on the city council and various King County boards, Yolanda has shown her commitment to our community and improving the lives of our residents,” said Councilmember von Reichbauer, who also sponsored Ms. Trout’s appointment. “With her degree in early childhood education and her experience running a bilingual preschool, Yolanda will provide a valuable perspective on how King County can better serve children and families for whom English is their second language.”

The King County Children and Youth Advisory Board assists policymakers as they consider outcomes, policies, and investments for children, families, youth and young adults, and also serves as the Best Starts for Kids (BSK) strategies oversight and advisory body providing recommendations on the distributions of the levy proceeds.  The Board consists of no more than forty members and includes a wide array of King County residents and stakeholders with geographically and culturally diverse perspectives.