Washougal, Washougal School District – Dana Wilson, a multilingual‑learner paraeducator, was selected as the 2026 Washington State Classified School Employee of the Year by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The award, the highest honor for classified school staff in the state, highlights Wilson’s long‑standing commitment to helping students, families, and staff thrive.
Statewide recognition
Wilson first earned the 2026 Regional Classified School Employee of the Year award from Educational Service District 112, then advanced to the statewide honor after a competitive selection process that considered classified employees across Washington. Superintendent Aaron Hansen praised her, saying, “Dana exemplifies the best of Washougal School District. Her dedication, collaborative spirit, and ability to build strong relationships create the trust and sense of belonging students need to thrive.”
Building trust for multilingual learners
Since joining the district in 2017, Wilson has become a trusted advocate for multilingual learners in elementary and middle schools. She works closely with teachers, family‑support staff, counselors, and social workers to identify barriers to learning, strengthen family connections, and provide individualized support. Principal David Cooke of Jemtegaard Middle School noted that under Wilson’s guidance, multilingual learners achieved the highest attendance rates and the strongest academic growth among all student groups in the building.
Cooke wrote, “Dana understands that learning cannot happen without trust. For many of our immigrant students, life experiences have made trust difficult.” He added that Wilson’s nurturing approach and high expectations have helped students see themselves as capable of achieving great things.
Dream Big initiative
One of Wilson’s signature projects, the “Dream Big” school‑wide initiative, was inspired by the Kids at Hope framework. After completing the program’s training, she organized an event that connected students and families with more than two dozen community professionals, including health‑care providers, athletes, university representatives, and service organizations. Participants explored four life‑area themes—home and family, education and career, hobbies and recreation, and community service—then created posters illustrating their aspirations.
Wilson wrote in her award application, “I firmly believe that if children can see it, they can dream it.” The event’s impact was evident as every student articulated future goals across all four areas.
Beyond the classroom
Wilson also supports the district’s K‑5 Dual Language Spanish Program, collaborates on instructional improvements, and volunteers with the district’s school foundation. Regionally, she co‑presents at the ESD 112 spring Multilingual Mini‑Conference and shares strategies for family engagement with educators throughout the area.
Colleagues describe her as a dependable team member who readily steps in wherever needed, reinforcing the district’s mission to provide a supportive environment for every child.
What the award means
As Washington’s 2026 Classified School Employee of the Year, Wilson will represent classified staff at state‑level professional‑learning events, leadership‑development programs, and education‑advocacy forums. The recognition underscores the vital role classified employees play in shaping student outcomes and strengthening community ties.
For more information about the award, visit the OSPI Classified School Employee of the Year webpage.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
