AWSP Blog

Who tapped you on the shoulder and encouraged you to lead? That’s a great question and one we constantly remind ourselves and our members. We all landed in this incredibly important and crucial role in the system because of the gentle or not-so-gentle nudge of someone in our lives. Inspiration might also have come from a great example or not-so-great example. When I look back at my career path, I see a wide variety of faces who both inspired and encouraged me to lead. From people in my inner circle of family and friends, to school leaders in my early days of teaching, to inspirational superintendents, the influences are far and wide. It’s hard for me to pinpoint one person in particular because everyone played a role in pushing me to take that next impactful step.

Melyssa Stone, Assistant Principal at Shorewood High School in Shoreline, WA, has been named the 2026 Washington State Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year. Stone is one of those heroes who doesn’t want recognition, which makes her all the more deserving of it. By listening closely to students and rolling up her sleeves to take practical action, Stone has transformed Shorewood High School into a place of belonging, support, and self-advocacy.

Teresa “Traci” Schultz, assistant principal at Southworth Elementary School in Yelm Community Schools, has been named the 2026 Washington State Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year. Schultz leads with empathy and clarity—anchoring every decision in her belief that every interaction can change a life. Known for her steady leadership and ability to restore hope in times of challenge, Schultz has helped rebuild trust and community at Southworth following district-wide levy losses and staff turnover.

Dr. Brent Osborn, principal at Lakeside High School in Nine Mile Falls School District, is our 2026 Washington State Secondary Principal of the Year. Osborn’s focus on strong systems and his belief in his students and staff drive powerful change in his rural school community. At a time when principal turnover is a concern for long-term student and staff wellbeing, Osborn’s 14 years (and counting!) at Lakeside High School shows the impact of consistent, meaningful years in the same building.

Kim Doughty, principal at Peter G. Schmidt Elementary School in the Tumwater School District, has been named the 2026 Washington State Elementary Principal of the Year. At the heart of Doughty’s leadership is a simple yet powerful belief: every student, staff member, and family deserves to feel seen, known, and valued. Under her guidance, Peter G. Schmidt Elementary has become a place of hope and high expectations for all learners.