It’s time to celebrate some of our extraordinary district staff! At yesterday’s board meeting, we recognized an incredible group of individuals and teams. These awards highlight not just what they do, but why they are so vital to our community. Please join us in honoring them!

🦸 The Everyday Hero Award – Travis Broussard, Mechanic, Transportation

Heroes rarely wear capes. Travis is honored for his exceptional human kindness and quick thinking after stepping up without hesitation to apply critical, lifesaving measures to a fellow community member in distress.

 

🏅 Ellen Fay Award – Kari Yellowlees, School Psychologist, Pioneer Elementary

The Ellen Fay Award honors profound, lasting impact. Kari is celebrated for her exceptional communication, proactive support for families, and the quiet confidence she brings to evaluations and cross-district collaborations.

 

🏫 Mary Lee Squires Teamwork Award – Peninsula High School Office Team 

Exemplifying the PHS motto “Together,” this incredible team works with confidence, compassion, and collaboration. They ensure families are welcomed, students are supported, and school operations run smoothly year-round.

 

⭐ Karin Fellin Award – Brian Tovey, Principal, Henderson Bay High School 

Honoring someone who quietly and consistently goes above and beyond, Brian is recognized for leading a family-like school culture centered on belonging, accountability, and student transformation.

 

In addition, five individuals were recognized for the Peninsula Pillars of Excellence Awards, which are directly tied to our district’s Strategic Plan goals:

🍎 Academic Excellence (Inspire and Achieve) – Lori Harrison, Teacher, Vaughn Elementary 

Lori is a distinguished educator recognized for her dedication to personalized instruction. By using innovative practices and creating an inclusive space, she ensures every student feels safe taking academic risks and reaching their full potential.

 

💡 Innovation (Curiosity in Action) – David Stitt, Teacher, Peninsula High School

David has been a driving force behind our district's AI journey. He invests countless hours helping colleagues understand new tools, beautifully defining what modern, student-centered innovation looks like.

 

📊 Fiscal Responsibility (Stewardship in Service) – Dani Fischer, Interim Principal, Discovery Elementary

Dani is honored for her thoughtful, responsible management of building budgets. Her keen attention to resource allocation ensures our schools operate effectively and sustainably to benefit both students and staff.

 

🌟 Learning Environment (Belonging and Respect) – Missy Northstrom, Teacher, Voyager Elementary 

Missy is celebrated for designing inclusive indoor and outdoor learning spaces that integrate play, choice, and independence, building confidence and joy for our Transition to Kindergarten students at Voyager Elementary.

 

🤝 Community Engagement (Stronger Together) – Becky Maffei, District Lead Counselor 

Becky goes above and beyond to build vital community partnerships, from local mental health professionals to the Gig Harbor Suicide Coalition. Her collaborative approach proves we are truly stronger together when supporting the whole child.

Thank you all for your unmatched dedication, hard work, and passion. You make our district incredibly proud!