Starbuck School District honors local supporters with annual Community Leadership Awards

Throughout its history, the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) has been involved in honoring and recognizing outstanding individuals in other professions who have made extraordinary contributions to K–12 education. WASA annually presents awards to recognize people and groups who have impacted education in the State of Washington.

The individuals below were recently honored at Rebecca's Lodge, Starbuck, WA., in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Starbuck School District #35.

Community Leadership Award (2019 & 2020)

Nominated by Kevin Graffis, Retired Superintendent

Carol Wildman served as a Board Director for the Starbuck School District No. 35, for 20 years before retiring in 2019. Carol's leadership allowed for enhanced teamwork among members of the Board and administration. Likewise, she truly represented the needs and interests of all students, as evidenced by her 14 years of service as a school bus driver. In closing, Carol always puts the interests of the children first.

Cindy Harris served as Board Director for the Starbuck School District No. 35 from 2012 to 2019. Cindy provided leadership in school finance which was critical for our small, rural district to sustain the increased cost of educating our children. In addition to serving as a Board Director, she provided service for the Starbuck school as a cook, janitor, bus driver, and para educator from 1987 - 2006.

Louann Truesdale served Starbuck School District No. 35 for 12 years before retiring in December 2020. Her job titles varied from working as a janitor, providing para educator support, and directing the school's pre-school program. Pre-school enrollment increased significantly under Louann's leadership and innovative practices. Due to increased enrollment numbers, the Starbuck School District recently adopted a Transitional Kindergarten program and additional staff. Louann was promoted to the position of Administrative Assistant during the last two years of her service to the school.

Also in attendance was the 2018 recipient of the Community Leadership Award, Mr. David McIlroy, pastor at the Starbuck Community Church.

Simply stated, students, staff, and families of the Starbuck school community were beneficiaries of each individual's commitment to excellence in educating our youth.