Welcome to Cedar River Elementary! What a privilege it is to be the principal at Cedar River Elementary School. We are fortunate to have a talented and caring staff that is committed to student learning. If I don't already, I can't wait to get to know you, your student and your family.

The staff and I want Cedar River to be a place of hope for all students. We aim to inspire hope by building strong connections and relationships with students, working collaboratively and focusing on humility, respect and compassion.

I started my career in education in 1993, with eight years as a primary and intermediate teacher at Rock Creek Elementary, two years as dean of students at Glacier Park Elementary, six years as an elementary principal in the White River School District, and most recently served as principal at Rock Creek. Additionally, I have taught undergraduate and graduate level courses in education at local universities. Areas I am especially passionate about include differentiated instruction, mathematics, integrated curriculum and the arts.

I was born and raised in Snoqualmie Valley. I earned a B.A. in elementary education, from Northwest University, a M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction and administrative credentials from City University. I am married and have two children. For recreation I enjoy reading, music, traveling, attending concerts and plays, skiing with my family and playing the piano.

My name is Tim Talmadge, and I am honored to introduce myself as the new assistant principal at Cedar River Elementary. I’ve been in education for 18 years—starting my career as a classroom teacher in grades 1–4, with most of my teaching years spent at Glacier Park Elementary. For the past nine years, I’ve served as an assistant principal at Cascade Elementary in the Renton School District. My wife and I recently celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary, and we are proud parents of six amazing kids—two of whom will be joining the Otter family as fifth graders this year!

Outside of school, I enjoy fishing, playing basketball, working in the garden, and getting lost in a good book. Our family also includes two dogs—Lewis, our loyal 15-year-old Shih Tzu, and Hope, our energetic 5-month-old Golden Retriever. I’m elated to be joining Team Hope and truly believe in the potential of every Otter who walks through our doors. I’m looking forward to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and strong connections. I can’t wait to get to know each of you and support our incredible students and community.