AWSP Blog

The 64th anniversary of the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) will take place in Washington, D.C. from March 7–14, 2026. For the past 64 years, two students per state have been selected to receive a $10,000 scholarship and attend this week-long program, funded by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation. This program is a national nonpartisan initiative to provide an annual opportunity for high school students with demonstrated leadership abilities to deepen their understanding of America’s political processes and strengthen their resolve to pursue careers in public service. Students should apply by September 26, 2025 for consideration.

The Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL) and the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) 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.

Educators and school leaders recognize that academic achievement is only one part of a student's success story. Thriving in school and life is deeply tied to students' emotional well-being, relationships, and sense of belonging. That's why now, more than ever, sending students to AWSL Summer Programs isn't just a leadership opportunity; it's an investment in their overall growth and the health of your school community.

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.

We are thrilled to announce the winners of the inaugural Association of Washington School Leaders (AWSL) and Association of Washington School Principals Culture Kickoff Award! This prestigious recognition celebrates schools that have gone above and beyond to cultivate a positive school culture. These schools have set the tone for a successful academic year through engaging assemblies, strong themes, and vibrant fall kickoffs.