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WASA honored Cindi Harris, left, Louann Truesdale, center, and Carol Wildman with the Community Leadership Award for the 2019 and 2020 school years at a Saturday ceremony held at the Rebecca Lodge.
STARBUCK–The Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) honored School Board Director Carol Wildman, School Board Director Cindy Harris, and school support staff member Louann Truesdale, with the Community Leadership Award for 2019 and 2020, at a ceremony in the Rebecca Lodge in Starbuck, Wash. last Saturday, June 19.
Throughout its history, the WASA has been involved in recognizing individuals in other professions who have made extraordinary contributions to K–12 education.
Awardee Carol Wildman served as Board Director, Starbuck School District No. 35, for twenty years before retiring in 2019. Wildman's leadership allowed for enhanced teamwork among members of the Board and administration. She represented the needs and interests of all students as evidenced by her fourteen years of service as a school bus driver.
Cindy Harris served as Board Director, Starbuck School District No. 35 during 2012–19. Harris provided leadership in school finance which was critical for the rural district to sustain the increased cost of educating local children. In addition to serving as a Board Director, she provided service for the Starbuck school as a cook, janitor, bus driver, and para educator from 1987–2006.
Louann Truesdale served Starbuck School District No. 35 for 12 years before retirement in December 2020. Her job titles varied from working as a janitor, providing para educator support, and directing the school's pre-school program. Enrollment increased significantly during Truesdale's stint through leadership and innovative practices. Due to increased enrollment numbers, the District recently adopted a transitional kindergarten program and additional staff. Truesdale was Administrative Assistant the last two years of her service.
Recently retired Starbuck School District Superintendent Kevin Graffis nominated each individual for the prestigious 2019–20 Community Leadership Award based on their contribution and impact in the Starbuck School District during.
The 2018 recipient of the Community Leadership Award, Starbuck Community Church Pastor David McIlroy, also attended the awards ceremony.
