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You are the architect of your building’s culture, its systems, and its commitment to learning. That’s not small work—that’s transformational. So here’s your invitation: Before the first bell rings, take some time to reflect. What do you want to be true about your school by October? What will you design now to make that vision a reality? Let’s start strong. The blueprint is in your hands.

The Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL) and the Association of Washington School Principals (51������) will present 42 schools across the state with our Washington Schools on the Rise Award this fall. This is double of the submissions from the 2024 award year.

As we step into February, we’re excited to kick off Member Engagement Month—a dedicated time to connect, elevate your voices, and explore new opportunities to shape the future of school leadership across Washington. This month-long campaign is all about strengthening our 51������ community and ensuring that every principal and assistant principal has the resources, support, and platform to make a lasting impact.

The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) is pleased to announce that high school students Ms. Ashlye Ruth Triebs and Ms. Ellie Xue will join Senator Patty Murray and Senator Maria Cantwell in representing Washington during the 63rd annual USSYP Washington Week, to be held March 1 - 8, 2025. Ashlye Triebs of Vancouver and Ellie Xue of Bellevue were selected from among the state’s top student leaders to be part of the 104 national student delegation that will attend meetings and briefings with senators, the president, a justice of the Supreme Court, leaders of cabinet agencies, and other officials throughout the week. Each delegate will also receive a $10,000 college scholarship for undergraduate study.

According to Dr. Tina Boogren, a Solution Tree’s research expert, educators are now entering the season of “Finding Balance” – a time to focus on recalibration and renewal over the next 9–10 weeks. With this in mind, this quarter’s “School Celebration Newsletter” is packed with simple, actionable ideas to celebrate your staff while also prioritizing your wellness during this pivotal season. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury – it’s a necessity for sustaining the incredible work you do.