An Arlington community member, staff member and students 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
Ardis Schmiege, Superintendent/CEO of Stilly Valley Health Connections - Public Hospital District #3, received the WASA Community Leadership Award. This
year, Ardis’ amazing leadership, commitment and vision helped to launch a new Coalition that supports healthier and more resilient youth in Arlington. The coalition is a coordinated effort between Stilly Valley Health Connections, Arlington Public Schools, and other community organizations to work collaboratively to address youth substance abuse, misuse, and prevention.
District Student Achievement Leadership Award
Dave McKellar, Arlington Public Schools’ Director of Special Education, received the WASA Student Achievement Leadership Award for Arlington Public Schools.
Through his leadership, this year, a new Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) was formed. SEAC is comprised of parents, students, and community members who meet monthly to learn and collaborate to find ways to support
improved learning opportunities for students.
Student Leadership Award
Nathan Nichols received the WASA Student Leadership Award. Nathan has served on the Arlington School Board and Student Advisory Council for two years. He works alongside our elected school board officials representing the needs and perspectives of students and providing advisory votes which help the board make better decisions and consider the impacts to students.
Zephyr Serniotti also received the WASA Student Leadership Award. Zephyr serves on the district’s Student Advisory Council and the District Community Equity Team. Zephyr participated in two district mental health forums providing valuable student perspective regarding mental health issues that students are facing every day.
“I would like to congratulate Ardis, Dave, Nathan and Zephyr for making positive contributions in our schools for all students,” said Arlington Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Chrys Sweeting. “These awards highlight the impacts these individuals are making every day.”