The Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians, along with an Arlington school principal and students, were recognized with Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) Region 109 school district awards on May 15 at Sno-Isle TECH Skills Center in Everett.
Community Leadership Award
The Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians received the WASA Community Leadership Award for the tribe’s generous and ongoing partnership with Arlington Public Schools. Through this partnership, fourth grade students can participate in authentic cultural experiences at the Stillaguamish Tribal Community Center. Each August, members of the Stillaguamish Education and Cultural Departments welcome, share drum songs, and provide wisdom to all staff during District Day. Throughout the year, the tribe and district collaborate and share ideas including working on ways to incorporate the Stillaguamish Tribe’s rich culture, history, and traditional ways into the district Since Time Immemorial curriculum.
District Student Achievement Leadership Award
Weston High School Principal Andrea Dixon-Hundredmark received the WASA Student Achievement Leadership Award for Arlington Public Schools. Andrea is a passionate advocate for students and provides ways for students to achieve measurable success through a Credit Achievement Plan (CAP) system where staff monitor student progress monthly rather than waiting until semester to determine if a student has earned credit. She has changed the culture and increased attendance and student success at Weston.
Student Leadership Award
Mady Van Beek, a senior at Weston High School, received the WASA Student Leadership Award. Mady serves as the senior class student board advisor for the Arlington School Board. She attends board meetings, study sessions, and workshops and represents the needs and perspectives of students. Mady provides leadership and has a positive influence across the Weston High School campus and throughout the district.
Noah Climacosa also received the WASA Student Leadership Award. Noah serves on the district’s Student Advisory Council, District Community Equity Team, and currently serves as the ASB president for Arlington High School. Noah is a student leader who looks for ways to create opportunities and better access to resources for all students, but especially for minorities and immigrants. He provides valuable student perspective and engages with other school staff, students, and community members to discuss important issues that students are facing every day.
“I would like to congratulate all the individuals who were recognized today for making positive contributions in our schools,” said Arlington Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Chrys Sweeting. “With your support and leadership, you are making schools in our district better places for all students to learn and thrive.”