Walla Walla Public Schools staff receive ESD 123 "Shoot for the Moon" awards for excellence

Walla Walla Public Schools staff receive ESD 123 "Shoot for the Moon" awards for excellence

Educational Service District 123 recently announced four Walla Walla Public Schools employees received "Shoot for the Moon" honorable mention awards for demonstrating innovation and excellence in leveraging WESPaC towards the achievement of school district goals.

The award is significant in that the recipient is considered to be the "best" in developing creative approaches and demonstrating consistently high performance that ultimately benefits district operations and/or student achievement.

2011 "Shoot for the Moon" Recipients
Kim Doepker: Principal, Blue Ridge Elementary
Nominators: Meg Cochran, Tina Brennan, Janifer Sams, and Tina Holbrook

"In her two years with us at Blue Ridge, she has indeed embraced the passion for Blue Ridge students and their families. She expects our staff to be innovative in our efforts towards meeting the standards and expectations set by our district and state ---no excuses." Tina Holbrook

"Kim knows there are no shortcuts and no silver bullets. Conquering the challenges that face our students requires belief, passion and inspired leadership." Tina Brennan

"Kim has a unique way of leading that inspires you to continually reflect upon your connections with your students as well as the planning, preparation, delivery and then analysis of your teaching.  Student data absolutely drives instruction at Blue Ridge Elementary School.  From the first day of her leadership, this work ethic challenge was made clear.  This philosophy is understood and embraced by all who teach here.  Kim has created an environment of high expectations not only for students, but for staff as well." Janifer Sams

Heidy Wiese: WESPaC Coordinator
Nominators: Linda Boggs, Judy O'Brien
"Heidy is one of my main role models within our district.  She stays calm, confident, and listens well to whatever situation I may present to her or whatever request I make.  She took the time to train me to submit the special education count through the EDS website this fall, and whenever I have problems with the submission process, she takes the time to help me figure it out.  In a word, I think Heidy is AWESOME." Judy O'Brien

Britt Adkins: Registrar, Pioneer Middle School
Nominator: Yvon Barber
"Britt Adkins is a pioneer when it comes to using Skyward to its highest potential.  She jumped in with both feet, explored, went to in-services, and now has embraced the web-based applications and even set up a workshop for district staff to help them understand the intricacies of the upcoming changes. It's a pleasure to watch her embrace the challenge of change with a positive attitude and a willingness to share with others." Yvon Barber 

Nancy Taylor: Payroll Officer
Nominator: Pat Johnston
"Nancy is a member of our business office team, all of whom are dedicated and take their responsibilities seriously, but Nancy is truly the driving force of our office regarding WESPaC. She goes above and beyond in all situations." Pat Johnston

Learn more about the "Shoot for the Moon" award at:  http://www.waswug2011.org/pages/awards