AWSP Blog
The AWSP blog is your source for news, updates, stories, and opinions from the AWSP staff, our partners, and our members. Interested in writing for us or have something to share? Reach out.
PODCAST | Family, Trust, and Academic Excellence: A Conversation with Dr. Heather Hastie-Ulery
AWSP Leadership Framework, Publications, Videos, and Podcasts
Author: David Morrill • September 13, 2026
Dr. Heather Hastie-Ulery, principal of Davis High School in Yakima School District, shares how a culture built on authentic cariño—care, connection, and high expectations—has transformed...
PODCAST | Kids First, Systems Second: Leading for Impact with Ryan Arnold
AWSP Leadership Framework, Publications, Videos, and Podcasts
Author: David Morrill • September 6, 2026
East Valley High School Principal Ryan Arnold joins Scott Friedman to discuss the power of relationship-centered leadership, building trust, and creating a positive school climate...
PODCAST | Perfect the Pause: Leadership Lessons from Dr. Tamara York at Littlerock
AWSP Leadership Framework, Publications, Videos, and Podcasts
Author: David Morrill • September 2, 2026
This episode features Dr. Tamara York, principal of Littlerock Elementary in Tumwater School District, sharing how intentional culture-building, family engagement, and student-centered systems are driving...
Apply for the 2026-27 United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP)
Advocacy, Legislation, & Policy, student leadership
Author: Roz Thompson • August 31, 2026
The 65th anniversary of the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) will take place in Washington, D.C. from March 6–13, 2027. Each year for the...
Creating Hope Starts with YOU
Author: Dr. Scott Seaman • August 24, 2026
As another school year begins, I want to remind you of something that can easily get lost among the schedules, staffing challenges, budgets, emails, meetings,...
The Conversation You Postponed Is Still Waiting
Author: Hary Askotzky • August 17, 2026
The following article is a guest opinion piece submitted to AWSP. There is probably a conversation you didn't have last year. A teacher whose classroom...
Bring the Lawyers in the Classroom Program to Your School for Constitution Day (and Beyond!)
Advocacy, Legislation, & Policy, Learning & Events, Partners
Author: Sara Niegowski • August 13, 2026
The Lawyers in the Classroom Program—a joint effort of the Washington State Bar Association and Washington Supreme Court—is mobilizing legal professionals to visit K–12 classrooms...
Strategically Situated: Why Classroom Location Matters
Author: Holly E. Marcolina, Ph.D. • July 29, 2026
The following article is a guest opinion piece submitted to AWSP. Halfway through my third year teaching, my principal unexpectedly stopped by my room. “Did...
You’re Invited! Thriving Schools Webinar: Supporting Teacher and Staff Well-being on August 6
Partners, Resource
Author: Brittany Baldwin • July 20, 2026
When educators feel supported, it positively impacts staff retention, student attendance, and overall academic success. As we approach back-to-school season for many, we are pleased...