AWSP Blog

The Association of Washington School Principals is proud to announce that Principal Chelsea Gallagher has been awarded the prestigious Washington State Secondary Principal of the Year title for 2025. Gallagher’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering an inclusive, supportive, and high-achieving school environment, making Mt. Spokane a beacon of excellence for students, staff, and the community.

Since covering pension/retirement/health insurance issues on behalf of WASA and AWSP, there are a few important points we have learned. This is just a brief summary of selected retirement related topics. One needs to check with the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) and the Health Care Authority (HCA) for definitive answers to questions about their own situation. Policies change so this document is just a broad overview highlighting some issues.  The importance of advance planning cannot be overstated. These are not issues to put off until the last months of either one’s impending retirement or approaching Medicare eligible age. Start by requesting an official benefit estimate from DRS 3-12 months prior to your retirement date.

Juanita High School’s Terry Jess has been named the Washington State Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year in recognition of his outstanding leadership, dedication to equity, and transformative impact on the school community.

This Women’s History Month, we recognize the impact of female educators who transformed schools and expanded opportunities for students in Washington state. These trailblazing women served as principals, administrators, and advocates, shaping policies and breaking barriers in education.

We’ve hit the halfway mark of the legislative session, with key education bills moving and budget discussions heating up. Special education funding, MSOC allocations, and school discipline policies remain in focus as lawmakers debate priorities. Meanwhile, AWSP members are heading to Washington, DC, to advocate for K-12 funding and policy changes at the national level. Stay informed and take action to support critical education issues.