ESD 113 Honors Student Leaders and Community Partners at 2026 WASA Awards
![Elijah Joslyn, Avanti High School, Jack Flores, Capital High School, Shruthi Lingam Nattami, Olympia High School posing with their certificates and the superintendent of Olympia School District, Dr. Patrick Murphy.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1779385758/esd113org/jknvnhfswlspmec6plr4/WASAAwards.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1779385758/esd113org/jknvnhfswlspmec6plr4/WASAAwards.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1779385758/esd113org/jknvnhfswlspmec6plr4/WASAAwards.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1779385758/esd113org/jknvnhfswlspmec6plr4/WASAAwards.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1779385758/esd113org/jknvnhfswlspmec6plr4/WASAAwards.png","width":1600}])
TUMWATER, Wash. — Educational Service District (ESD) 113 celebrated the region’s students and community organizations recognized by the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) at their Honorary Awards dinner reception on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Each year, ESDs and WASA work together to honor recipients selected by school superintendents, highlighting people and organizations who have made extraordinary contributions to K–12 education in Washington.
This year, ESD 113 nominees earned recognition in two categories: the WASA Student Leadership Award and the Community Leadership Award.
Student Leadership Award
The WASA Student Leadership Award recognizes students who lead initiatives that promote inclusivity, access, and social justice in their school and community. Recipients demonstrate strong collaboration, integrity, and a commitment to inspiring others.
Three students from Olympia School District received this honor:
- Elijah Joslyn, Avanti High School
- Jack Flores, Capital High School
- Shruthi Lingam Nattami, Olympia High School
Their leadership reflects a commitment to creating welcoming environments for all.
Community Leadership Award
The Community Leadership Award goes to community members and organizations that make outstanding contributions to education. Recipients demonstrate leadership, cooperation with local school districts, and a sustained history of service that benefits students directly.
Seven community leaders and organizations earned this recognition:
- Olympia School District: Katy Johansson, Olympia Education Foundation
- North Thurston Public Schools: Boys and Girls Club of Thurston County
- Centralia School District: Paula Burrows, Lewis County Footsteps of Hope
- Winlock School District: Winlock Community Student Advocates (WSCA)
- Hoquiam School District: Boots for Bears–Caring for Kids
- Ocosta School District: Ocosta Cares
- Griffin School District: Griffin School Foundation
ESD 113 serves Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston counties, partnering with school districts to expand learning opportunities and support student success. The agency coordinates the Region 113 WASA Honorary Awards process, connecting local administrators and community members to statewide recognition.
More Information
About ESD 113: The purpose of ESD 113 is to ensure excellent and equitable education for all students through service and collaboration. Led by Superintendent Dr. Flip Herndon, we provide services for 44 school districts, one tribal compact school, and approved private schools in Thurston, Mason, Lewis, Grays Harbor, and Pacific counties.
About WASA: WASA is a non-profit organization committed to the development of quality education through professional leadership. Members benefit from a supportive community of professional leaders working to provide insightful, valuable training support, and resources. WASA also strives to sustain a positive impact on legislative and community leaders. Membership is open to education administrators in Washington state.