Because of You Award

  • Scholars in grades 3–12 have a chance to nominate any Federal Way Public Schools staff member in the district they believe has positively influenced them, their school, and/or their community with the Because of You award.

    The Superintendent’s Scholar Advisory team reviews these nominations, and each month selects recipients to be recognized at a board meeting.

    After reviewing multiple nominations, the following staff members have been selected to receive the Because of You Award to recognize the incredible things they do for our scholars every day, and making a difference in our scholars' lives!

Award Recipients

  • Because of You Awards: May 23, 2023

    Posted by Gerardo Fernandez on 5/24/2023

    Congratulations to Mark Klumpenhower, Teacher at Federal Way Public Academy, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    A scholar shared that Mr. Klumpenhower taught him how to work hard. Another scholar states that she learned a lot of valuable life skills from Mr. Klumpenhower.

    Because of you, these scholars are more confident learners! 

    Mark Klumpenhower of FWPA


    Congratulations to Michelle Dayley, Teacher at Lakota Middle School, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    Several scholars shared that Ms. Dayley is supportive and always caring towards others.

    Because of you, these scholars say they look forward to school, feel safe, and are not stressed. 

    Michelle Dayley of Lakota Middle School


    Congratulations to Jonathan Mercer, Teacher at TAF at Saghalie, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    A scholar shares that Mr. Mercer is supportive, gives helpful advice and strategies, and has had a positive impact on her. Another student says that Mr. Mercer is understanding and has helped her learn new things about history.

    Because of you, these scholars say they are motivated in school!

    Jonathan Mercer


    Congratulations to Melissa Johnstone, Teacher at Federal Way Open Doors, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    One scholar says that Ms. Johnstone has helped her become more motivated and encouraged her to make her senior year her best! Another scholar shares that Ms. Johnstone is the reason she wants to go to school now.

    Because of you, these scholars are much more confident about their academics! 

    Melissa Johnstone of Open Doors


    Congratulations to Mary Martin, Teacher at Sunnycrest Elementary, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    Several scholars shared that Ms. Martin is very welcoming and supportive.

    Because of you, these scholars are happier in school!

    Mary Martin of Sunnycrest Elementary

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: April 25, 2023

    Posted by Gerardo Fernandez on 4/26/2023

    Congratulations Andrea Cravioto, Counselor at Panther Lake Elementary School for receiving a Because of You award!

    A scholar shared that Ms. Cravioto encourages him to make good decisions even when it is hard to do so.

    Because of you, Banks says he can turn a hard day into a good one!

    Andrea Cravioto

     

    Congratulations Karen BoundsBand/Choir Instructor at Illahee Middle School for receiving a Because of You Award!

    A scholar told us that Ms. Bounds sees the potential in everyone to excel in music.

    Because of you, this scholar is on her way to reaching her dream of becoming a musician!  .

    Karen Bounds


    Congratulations Donte Greencoach and teacher at Lakota Middle School, for receiving a Because of You award!

    One scholar stated that Mr. Green taught her how to be respectful. Another scholar shared that he supports her in class. Another said that he is funny and nice. Another stated that Mr. Green encouraged him to push himself to work harder, and another shared that Mr. Green has made a huge impact on him.

    Because of you, these scholars say that they are all working hard!

    Donte Green


    Congratulations to Diony Victorin, Teacher at Federal Way High School, for receiving a Because Of You award!

    A scholar told us that Mr. Victorin inspires him to do his best, not only in school but also in life. Another scholar shared that Mr. Victorin goes above and beyond to make sure scholars understand material being taught.

    Because of you, these scholars say they are inspired to do their best! Diony Victorin 


    Congratulations to Kasil Brenner, Teacher at Evergreen Middle School, for receiving a Because Of You award!

    Several scholars shared that Mr. Brenner encourages them to try their best even when they feel like giving up.

    Because of you, these scholars say they feel encouraged and supported! 

    Kasil Brenner

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: March 28, 2023

    Posted by Gerardo Fernandez on 3/29/2023

    Congratulations to Angelica Afande, teacher at Rainier View Elementary, for receiving a Because Of You award!

    Several scholars shared that Ms. Afande motivates and encourages them to keep going.

    Because of you, these scholars say they believe in themselves! 

    Angelica Afande


    Congratulations to Shelby Acuña, office manager at Green Gables Elementary, for receiving a Because Of You award!

    A scholar told us that Ms. Acuna has helped them stay on track with schoolwork.

    Because of you, this scholar looks forward to going to school! 

    Shelby Acuna


    Congratulations to Alana Drummond, teacher at Lakota Middle School, for receiving a Because Of You award!

    One scholar shared that Ms. Drummond has accepted him for who he is and makes him feel welcomed.

    Another scholar stated that Ms. Drummond makes class more enjoyable.

    Because of you, these scholars say they enjoy going to school!

     

    Alana Drummond

     


    Congratulations to Kelly Howard, teacher at Woodmont K-8, for receiving a Because Of You award!

    Several scholars said that Ms. Howard is sympathetic, open-minded, and always positive. Scholars mention that she encourages them to do their best in everything. 

    Because of you, these scholars say they feel safe, loved, and cared for! 

    Kelly Howard

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: Feb. 28, 2023

    Posted by Gerardo Fernandez on 3/1/2023 1:05:00 AM

    Congratulations to Rosa Peña, family liaison at Olympic View Elementary, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    A scholar shared that Ms. Peña is friendly and helpful, not just to scholars but the Hispanic community as well. Because of you, this scholar feels encouraged! 

    Rosa Pena


    Congratulations to Greta Holtz, Family Liaison at Wildwood Elementary, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    A scholar told us that Ms. Holtz is kind, wonderful and advocates for him when he needs it. Because of you, this scholar feels heard and cared for at school.

    Greta Holtz


    Congratulations to Lindsey Mann, teacher at Sunnycrest Elementary, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    Scholars shared that Ms. Mann taught them about self-love and understands their jokes. Because of you, these scholars say that they are more confident in themselves and happily attend school every day!

    Lindsey Mann


    Congratulations to Nadine Daniel-Hurry, teacher at Evergreen Middle School, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    Several scholars said that Ms. Daniel-Hurry is encouraging and supportive. Because of you, students enjoy learning new things!

    Nadine Daniel-Hurry 


    Congratulations to Pam Ashe, teacher at Federal Way High School, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    A scholar told us that Ms. Ashe brings light to students of color and encourages her to learn more about her culture. Because of you, this scholar says that she feels supported and inspired!

    Pam Ashe 

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: Jan. 24, 2023

    Posted by Gerardo Fernandez on 1/25/2023

    Congratulations to Andrew Young, teacher at Federal Way Public Academy, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    A scholar shared that Mr. Young makes learning fun and the material he teaches ties into real-world situations. Because of you, this scholar’s first year at Federal Way Public Academy has been wonderful.

    Andrew Young


    Congratulations to Chrissie Bianchi, teacher at Todd Beamer High School, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    Scholars told us that Ms. Bianchi helps them feel connected to their school community and never gives up on them. Because of you, these scholars say that they are motivated and learning how to be leaders!

     Chrissie Bianchi


    Congratulations to Maggie Engels, teacher at Mirror Lake Elementary, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    A scholar told us that Ms. Engels welcomed him, listened to him, and encouraged him to advocate for himself. Because of you, this scholar says he is more confident and knows he can accomplish great things!

    Maggie Engels


    Congratulations to Sabine Watson, teacher at Sacajawea Middle School, for receiving a #BecauseOfYou award!

    A scholar shares that Ms. Watson encouraged her to read and introduced her to books that she loves today. Because of you, this scholar has discovered her passion for reading and writing. 

    Sabine Watson

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: May 24, 2022

    Posted by Gerardo Fernandez on 5/25/2022 10:00:00 AM

    Congratulations to Leann Stafford, teacher at Illahee Middle School. She was nominated by five scholars.

    One scholar says Ms. Stafford was there for her from day one of school. Another states that she is very kind and makes class fun. Another scholar shares that Ms. Stafford has helped him in class. Another says that she helps him with his work. Another states that Ms. Stafford is very kind and understands her. Because of you, these scholars are enjoying school and feel supported.

    Thank You Leann Stafford


    Congratulations to Sarah Nusser, Program Specialist for Student Support Services. She was nominated by a scholar, who shares that Ms. Nusser listens to him and cares about him. He shares that she takes the time to learn about him and pays attention to his interests. Because of you, Case is on his way to graduate!

    Sarah Nusser


    Congratulations to April Williams, teacher at Internet Academy. She was nominated by a scholar.

    The scholar shares that Ms. Williams is understanding, patient, and encourages her to do her best. Maddison says that Ms. Williams supports her and answers every question she has. Because of you, Maddison has been able to catch up on everything!

    Thank you April Williams


    Congratulations to Sam Ruppel, teacher at Kilo Middle School. He was nominated by a scholar who shares that Mr. Ruppel has shown him ways to improve himself and those around him. Adrian says that Mr. Ruppel helps with school problems and real-world problems. Because of you, Adrian has learned how to turn his life around with a few good choices!

    Thank you Sam Ruppel


    Congratulations to Eric Filler, teacher at Federal Way Public Academy. He was nominated by a scholar who shares that Mr. Filler is very nice and supports her.  She says that Mr. Filler always helps her when she has problems and she looks forward to his class every day. Because of you, Greta is encouraged to achieve her dreams and goals!

    Thank you Eric Filler


    Congratulations to Dr. Frederick Jordan, teacher at Mark Twain Elementary. He was nominated by a scholar.

    The scholar shares that Dr. Jordan is a caring, kind and authentic individual. Ca’vell said that Dr. Jordan ensured that he was heard and knew that his feelings mattered. Because of you, Ca’vell is enjoying school again!

    Thank you Dr. Frederick

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: April 26, 2022

    Posted by Gerardo Fernandez on 4/27/2022 9:30:00 AM

    Congratulations to Emma Davis, teacher at Twin Lakes Elementary School. She was nominated by a scholar.

    The scholar says Ms. Davis is a very positive teacher. He says he feels comfortable asking questions because he feels heard and appreciated.

    Because of you, Odin says he is pushed to learn more and enjoys your support and guidance!

    Thank you Emma Davis


    Congratulations to Sue McCrummen, teacher at Decatur High School. She was nominated a scholar who shares Ms. McCrummen has helped her get the education she needs, including improving her math skills. She says Ms. McCrummen makes class activities fun and effective.

    Because of you, Annabeth says she feels cared for!

    Thank you Sue McCrummen


    Congratulations to Jennifer Harding, teacher at Internet Academy. She was nominated by a scholar.

    The scholar says Ms. Harding has impacted her writing over the last two years. She states that because of the support she has received from Ms. Harding, she is excited to write stories now.

    Because of you, Sophie says she feels confident in her writing!

    Thank you Jennifer Harding


    Congratulations to Wendy Van Skyhawk, teacher at Federal Way High School. She was nominated by a scholar.

    The scholar shares that Ms. Van Skyhawk has impacted his behavior, attitude, and outlook on life. Craig states that she has helped him see that he can do what he puts his mind to.

    Because of you, Craig states that he is graduating and will be successful in life!Thank you Wendy Van Skyhawk


    Congratulations to Kasey Williams-Lopez, teacher at Thomas Jefferson High School. She was nominated by a scholar, who states Ms. Williams-Lopez makes him feel included in the classroom by building a sense of community. He shares that she has helped him realize the value of learning a new language.

    Because of you, Hargunpreet says he learned the skills of commitment and trying something new!

    Thank you Kasey Williams-Lopez


     

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: March 22, 2022

    Posted by Gerardo Fernandez on 3/23/2022

    Congratulations to Joy McLaughlin, teacher at Brigadoon Elementary School. She was nominated by four scholars.

    One says Ms. McLaughlin has helped him with his confidence. Another shares he has learned so much about math, science, and reading. Other scholar states Ms. McLaughlin is nice and fun at the same time. Other says Ms. McLaughlin is a funny and kind person. Because of you, these scholars say school is fun!

    Joy McLaughlin


    Congratulations to Dr. Jeom Ja Yeo, teacher at Federal Way High School. She was nominated by one scholar.

    Scholar says Dr. Yeo had conversations with her family and shared information about college applications and scholarships. Because of you, Chloe says she now has many opportunities after high school!

    Thank you slide of Dr. Yeo


    Congratulations to Ta Sukovaty, teacher at Wildwood Elementary School. She was nominated by six scholars.

    One scholar states that Ms. Sukovaty is a calm, collected, and encouraging teacher. Another shares Ms. Sukovaty has helped her learn from her mistakes. A third scholar says she likes it when Ms. Sukovaty says good morning because it makes her day go just fine. Another scholar states she is a better reader because of her. Another shares Ms. Sukovaty has helped her do her best. Another says she has helped him move up in reading and math levels. Because of you, these scholars say they have fun in school!Thank you slide of Ta


    Congratulations to Emily Reed, teacher at Evergreen Middle School. She was nominated by two scholars.

    One says Ms. Reed is funny, nice, and trustworthy. The other shares Ms. Reed makes her work hard so she can accomplish good things in life. Because of you, these scholars say they feel supported!

    Thank you slide of Emily


    Congratulations to Joan Bunting, teacher at Meredith Hill Elementary School. She was nominated by two scholars.

    One shares Ms. Bunting motivates him to never give up. The other says Ms. Bunting is a kind, caring, and patient math team coach. Because of you, these scholars say they are excited about math!

    Thank you slide of Joan

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: February 22, 2022

    Posted by Alison Dempsey-Hall on 2/23/2022

    Congratulations to Kayla Prewitt counselor at Green Gables Elementary School. She was nominated by two scholars.

    One says that she can’t help but smile when she is around Ms. Prewitt. The other says that Ms. Prewitt helps him when he’s feeling sad or frustrated. They both share that Ms. Prewitt greets them every morning at the door, no matter how cold it is, and gives them hand sanitizer. Because of you, these scholars say they come to school feeling calm and ready to do their very best!

    Kayla


    Congratulations to Nathan Santo, teacher at Lakota Middle School who was nominated by 7 scholars.

    One scholar shared Mr. Santo makes him feel welcome. Another scholar shared that he is very nice and kind. Another scholar stated that Mr. Santo makes him want to be a scientist. Another scholar shared that science is now her favorite subject. Another scholar shared that he helps her feel motivated and excited. Another scholar shared that Mr. Santo taught him to never give up. Another scholar shared that he always has a good time in class. Because of you, these scholars say they are inspired to love school and science!

    Nathan


    Congratulations to Kelly Miller, teacher at Lake Grove Elementary School.

    She was nominated by a scholar who said that Ms. Miller supports her and helps her learn. The scholar stated that Ms. Miller reminds her to do her best and not give up. Because of you, Lila says that during hard times she feels happier!

    Kelly


    Congratulations to Cathi Servis, paraeducator at Wildwood Elementary School. She was nominated by two students. One shared that Ms. Servis is a great lunch lady and is thankful for everything that she has done. Another stated that Ms. Servis makes him smile. Because of you, these scholars say they enjoy school!

    Cathi


    Congratulations to Maggie Cole, teacher at Kilo Middle School who was nominated by 6 scholars.

    One student shared that Ms. Cole helps him with his schoolwork. Another student stated that she makes the classroom a nice place for him to learn.  Another student stated that he feels cared for by Ms. Cole. Another student said that she can trust Ms. Cole. Another student stated he feels encouraged to do his work. Another student said she enjoys math now. Because of you, these scholars say they are encouraged to love math!

    Maggie

    Comments (-1)
  • Because of You Awards: January 25, 2022

    Posted by Alison Dempsey-Hall on 1/26/2022

    We would like to recognize Clarisa Wilson-Garcia, teacher at Lakota Middle School.

    She was nominated by a scholar who shares she feels like she can be herself around Ms. Wilson-Garcia because she gives her support. The scholar says just the promise of Ms. Wilson-Garcia being there gets her through the day. Because of you, this scholar said she feels safe and supported in her school community.

    BOY 2


    We would like to recognize Erin Barry, social worker at Lakeland Elementary School.

    She was nominated by a scholar who shares Ms. Barry is kind and is always there for him. He said Ms. Barry comes in and resets his heart back to kindness mode. Because of you this scholar says he understands the meaning and importance of empathy and compassion.

    BOY 1


    We would like to recognize Rene Recato, teacher at Federal Way High School.

    He was nominated by a scholar who shares Mr. Recato has impacted his learning by helping him through hard times even if teh subject was unfamiliar. The scholar says Mr. Recato has shown him multiple ways to complete his work using different perspectives. Because of you this student says he has been able to make it through thick and thin no matter what!

    BOY 3


    We would like to recognize Timothy Chang, teacher at Thomas Jefferson High School.

    He was nominated by a scholar who shared Mr. Chang's positive attitude shows his belief the student can accomplish anything. The scholar shared Mr. Chang expresses an authentic devotion to his success and makes the classroom exciting. Because of you, this scholar said he aims to achieve his academic goals and has a desire to come to school every day.

    BOY 4

    Comments (-1)