2023 Board of Distinction

School board receives prestigious state Board of Distinction award for sixth consecutive year

The Washington State School Directors’ Association announced Walla Walla Public Schools Board of Directors has been selected to receive the 2023 ‘Board of Distinction Award’ for the sixth consecutive year. In 2022, Walla Walla Public Schools Board of Directors also received the state “Board of the Year” award. The district will receive the Board of Distinction award at the state directors’ conference ceremony to be held Nov. 16 in Spokane.

The Board of Distinction award program recognizes school boards that show evidence of applying best practice standards endorsed by the Washington State School Directors’ Association. Recipients must document they meet rigorous accountability and leadership practices through evidence-based actions. Selection criteria also includes aligning and incorporating high quality governance attributes to improve district operations and student learning.

School board member Ruth Ladderud helped coordinate the award submission. She has served on the school board since 2012.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by the state for our positive impact on student success,” said Ladderud. “All means all in Walla Walla, and our Vision 2030 Strategic Plan keeps us laser focused on ambitious levels of learning, relevant and rigorous experiences, a culture of equity and belonging, and family and community partnerships.”

School Board President Derek Sarley says he is also honored the school board is being recognized for its leadership.

"This award is great validation for the work the board is leading to help close opportunity gaps and ensure every Walla Walla student walks across that graduation stage ready to tackle what’s coming next," said Sarley.

Board of Directors
Derek Sarley - President
Kathy Mulkerin – Vice President
Ruth Ladderud
Eric Rindal
Terri Trick
Hailey Thrall (Board Student Representative)