Washington Association of School Administrators

06/23/2026

TURN2 Tuesday: What Gives You Hope?

This week, we feature Dr. John Parker, Superintendent of Central Valley School District - Spokane Valley, WA, and his inspiring perspective on the future of public education.

"In Central Valley SD, our motto is Creating Infinite Possibilities for All Students! My greatest source of hope is the confidence that we're providing tools to equip our graduates for launch."

Dr. Parker highlights the power of belonging, strong instruction, Career and Technical Education opportunities, and pathways that allow students to earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree.

"Whatever their chosen trajectories, access to the tools for success is in our schools, free for the taking. Seeing our students take ownership of their infinite possibilities gives me hope."

At WASA, we celebrate leaders who champion equity, opportunity, and student success—ensuring every learner is prepared to pursue their goals and aspirations.

Read it at www.wasa-oly.org/Turn2-62326

06/16/2026

What gives you hope about the future of our schools?

For Shelley Redinger, it's our students.

In this week's Turn2, Shelley reflects on why she chose a career in public education, the transformative power of caring relationships, and the hope she finds in students who are thoughtful, creative, resilient, and supported by dedicated educators and families.

She shares a powerful reminder from Twin Rivers Group Home: one caring adult can change the trajectory of a student's life.

As we look ahead to summer learning and leadership opportunities, we invite you to explore this week's Turn2 and connect with colleagues at upcoming WASA events, including:
☀️ Summer Conference
🎯 Facilitating for Impact
🧠 Learning Leaders Lab
⛳ Heading to Summer Conference? Join us for a Golf Tournament & Game Night

Together, we continue advancing leadership, trust, and advocacy for Washington's students.

Read this week's Turn2: www.wasa-oly.org/Turn2-61626

06/10/2026

Puyallup students, staff, and community leaders were recently recognized at the 2026 WASA Region 111 Awards for leadership, equity, advocacy, and service.

06/10/2026

06/09/2026

This week's Turn2 features Dana Gleasen, Superintendent of Granite Falls School District. In our interview, Dana shared that she is inspired by her staff. "I have hope about the future of our schools because I see extraordinary educators and staff who remain deeply committed to children and fully engaged in the work of helping students grow, connect, and succeed."

You can read the rest of her response and find our upcoming events at www.wasa-oly.org/Turn2-6926

06/04/2026

✨ Leadership is better when we're together.

The challenges facing public education are complex—but the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and lead with purpose has never been greater.

Join education leaders from across Washington at the 2026 Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) /WASA Summer Conference, June 28–30 in Spokane, for three days of inspiration, connection, and professional growth. This year's theme, "Better Together: Leading with Purpose. Connecting with Heart," celebrates the power of relationships, collaboration, and shared leadership in advancing student success.

🎤 Be inspired by nationally recognized keynote speakers:
• Brad Montague – New York Times bestselling author and creator of Kid President
• Carlos Ojeda Jr. – Youth development expert and motivational speaker
• Sandy Zimmerman – Educator, leadership coach, and Survivor champion

🤝 Connect with superintendents, principals, assistant principals, and central office leaders from every corner of Washington.

Learn more and register at www.wasa-oly.org/Summer26

06/02/2026

This week's Turn2 highlights WASA member Clinton Endicott, Superintendent of Tenino School District. When asked what motivates him, Clinton told us he is inspired by his students, and that they rely on us as leaders. Students are the reason we do what we do!
Read more, including a heart-warming student speech that Clinton shared, at www.wasa-oly.org/Turn2-6226

05/28/2026

Have you read this week's Turn2? Following Memorial Day weekend, we are highlighting Erin Prince, Superintendent of Central Kitsap School District. Central Kitsap started their District Ambassador Program in 2022.

"This means stepping inside our schools, learning about district operations, exploring funding realities, and hearing directly from students and staff. When people feel connected to our district and our employees, they are more likely to ask thoughtful questions, share accurate information, and help strengthen trust across the broader community."

Learn more and see photos of some of the great work these ambassadors are doing on our Turn2! www.wasa-oly.org/Turn2-52626

05/26/2026

⭐️ Special announcement! ⭐️

Educational Service District (ESD) 113 celebrated the region’s students and community organizations recognized by the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) at their Honorary Awards dinner reception on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

Each year, ESDs and WASA work together to honor recipients selected by school superintendents, highlighting people and organizations who have made extraordinary contributions to K–12 education in Washington.

Nominated by Superintendent Dr. Mike Villarreal, Hoquiam School District was one of seven districts to be recognized with a Community Leadership Award.

Here is what Superintendent Villarreal shared at the reception:

“Tonight, it is my honor to introduce an organization that reflects the very best of what it means to care for children and community: Boots for Bears as WASA Community Leadership Award Recipient.

Founded in October 2024 with just $500 and a core group of six dedicated community members, Boots for Bears was created to ensure that students in Hoquiam had access to something many of us take for granted—appropriate clothing and basic necessities needed to come to school feeling confident, secure, and ready to learn. What began serving Emerson Elementary quickly expanded to Central and Lincoln Elementary Schools, and today supports students across multiple districts throughout Grays Harbor County.

The founding members of Boots for Bears are Stephanie Reime, Robert Reime, Kjersten Kellog, Cynthia McMillan, Paul McMillan, Nikki Elledge, and Becky Root. Their vision, compassion, and willingness to act transformed a simple idea into a movement of hope for children and families. Since then, additional volunteers including Savana Larsson, and Kami Sauer have helped expand the organization’s reach and impact.

Today, Boots for Bears provides boots, shoes, coats, clothing, hygiene supplies, and emergency support to students and families facing difficult circumstances—including house fires, foster placements, and urgent needs that could otherwise keep students from attending school. Their mission is simple yet powerful: helping students feel confident and ready to learn.

What makes this story even more remarkable is the generosity of the Hoquiam community. Through partnerships with local foundations, businesses, service clubs, and caring neighbors, Boots for Bears has become a shining example of community leadership in action.

Please join me in recognizing and celebrating the incredible work of Hoquiam’s Boots for Bears.”

📸 Pictured left to right: Nikki Elledge, Cynthia McMillan, Tom Elledge, Paul McMillan, Dr. Mike A. Villarreal

05/22/2026