School leaders received numerous reports that former high school English teacher Curtis Johnston was “dating” a student but failed to intervene, complaint says
The proposal would expand the definition of illegal sexual contact between prison staff and an inmate to include kissing, groping
Washington is one of 12 states without enforceable state standards or oversight — that won’t change in 2026
We’re bidding a grateful farewell this week to our executive editor and one of InvestigateWest’s co-founders, Carol Smith, who is leaving to become an editor at KUOW.
Carol has been instrumental in the success we’ve achieved over the last four years. She helped us to pioneer the concept of a journalism studio here in Seattle, and wrote or edited some of our most memorable stories, including an award-winning investigation into the workplace dangers of chemotherapy drugs. That one led to two new state laws in Washington – one the first of its kind in the nation.
Carol will be missed, but she won’t be far. She plans to stay involved with InvestigateWest as a contributing editor and an advisor. And we will continue to collaborate with Carol, Jim Gates, and the rest of the news desk at KUOW as we have regularly since our inception.
So what comes next at InvestigateWest?
It would be impossible to replace Carol. But we will be hiring a new investigative reporter. If you have proven investigative skills and excel at generating story ideas and executing them, get in touch. Data skills are a big plus. Enthusiasm for our mission to sustain and modernize public interest reporting in the Northwest is required.
Please join us in giving Carol a hearty thank-you and wishing her the best at KUOW.
The story you just read is only possible because readers like you support our mission to uncover truths that matter. If you value this reporting, help us continue producing high-impact investigations that drive real-world change. Your donation today ensures we can keep asking tough questions and bringing critical issues to light. Join us — because fearless, independent journalism depends on you!
— Jacob H. Fries, executive director
DonateCancel anytime.
School leaders received numerous reports that former high school English teacher Curtis Johnston was “dating” a student but failed to intervene, complaint says
The proposal would expand the definition of illegal sexual contact between prison staff and an inmate to include kissing, groping
Washington is one of 12 states without enforceable state standards or oversight — that won’t change in 2026
If you cover criminal justice in the Pacific Northwest — or want to — we’re hosting a free virtual training that may be useful to you and your newsroom
Subscribe to our weekly newsletters and never miss an investigation.
