Arlington community members, students and staff were recognized with Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) Region 109 school district awards on May 16 at Sno-Isle TECH Skills Center in Everett.
Community Leadership Award
Kimberly and John Meno received the WASA Community Leadership Award for their commitment and leadership on the Citizens Committee for Arlington Schools for helping the community understand the scope and need of three important ballot measures in February 2024. Through their leadership and dedication, two of the three measures presented to voters were approved.
District Student Achievement Leadership Award
Kerri Helgeson, Arlington Public Schools Director of Equity and Student Well-Being, received the WASA Student Achievement Leadership Award for Arlington Public Schools. Kerri is an avid advocate for removing barriers and increasing access to learning and achievement for all students. Through her leadership, the board, district leaders, and instructional staff are disaggregating and analyzing data at a deeper level and identifying gaps and barriers to learning for our students.
Student Leadership Award
Sera Sabol, a Running Start student at Edmonds College, received the WASA Student Leadership Award. She serves on the District Community Equity Team and Student Advisory Council. Sera provides valuable student perspective and leadership on these committees. She engages with other school staff, students, and community members to discuss equity issues and supports the refinement and implementation of the district equity plan.
Rachael Tanner from Weston High School also received the WASA Student Leadership Award. Rachael is an advocate for making things better for Arlington students, but specifically at her high school, Weston. She is keenly aware of the needs of her classmates and actively seeks solutions. She engages with other school staff, students, and community members to discuss important issues that students are facing every day.
“I would like to congratulate Kimberly, John, Kerri, Sera and Rachael for making positive contributions in our schools for all students,” said Dr. Chrys Sweeting, Arlington Public Schools Superintendent. “These awards highlight the impacts these individuals are making every day.”