Regional Recognition

High School Art Show

ESDs organize regional art competitions that identify exceptional student artists across Washington. ESD staff coordinate these contests, which serve as the gateway to the state Superintendent's High School Art Show. Through this regional-to-state pathway, ESDs ensure students from all areas can participate, with 26 outstanding works ultimately selected for statewide recognition.

The 2026 Regional High School Art Show is closed. Please feel free to browse the gallery. 

Knowledge Bowl

Knowledge Bowl is an academic competition for high school students in the ESD 113 region. Each of Washington's nine ESDs holds regional Knowledge Bowl competitions that determine which teams advance to the state-level tournament in the spring.

Knowledge Bowl is considered an "athletic event for the mind," testing high school teams on their knowledge across a variety of subjects through a fun, energetic competition that involves teambuilding, competitive academic testing, and interacting with their peers. 

This year's regional event takes place February 4–5, 2027.

Teacher of the Year

ESDs select Regional Teachers of the Year, creating a pathway to recognize exceptional classroom educators across Washington. ESD coordinators manage the nomination process, identifying teachers who guide students to excellence, build positive school cultures, and demonstrate leadership. Regional winners advance to the state competition, with one educator selected as Washington's Teacher of the Year and nominee for the national award.

The 2027 Regional Teacher of the Year is Scott Le Duc, Capitol High School, Olympia School District.

Classified School Employee of the Year

ESDs manage the regional selection process for Classified School Employee of the Year, creating recognition pathways for essential non-certificated staff. Each ESD identifies exceptional classified employees who demonstrate outstanding service, growth, and leadership in their schools. Regional winners advance to the state competition, with one selected as Washington's nominee for the national RISE award, highlighting the critical contributions of classified staff to student success.

The 2026 Classified Employee of the Year is Tom Harn, South Bay Elementary, North Thurston Public Schools.