SKOKOMISH, WA — March 5, 2026 — Hood Canal School District has been selected as one of only 25 school districts in Washington State to receive the 2026 State Superintendent’s Award for Educational Excellence in Student Progress.
The award recognizes school districts across Washington that have demonstrated significant improvement in student opportunity and academic outcomes over the past three school years.
“This recognition belongs to our students, our staff, and our entire community,” said Superintendent Dr. Lance Gibbon. “In a small rural district serving about 330 students, every gain represents intentional work — strengthening instruction, improving attendance, building systems of support, and maintaining high expectations for every learner. I am incredibly proud of our team and grateful for the partnership we share with families and the Skokomish community.”
The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) evaluates districts for this award using key measures aligned with the state’s Annual Snapshot on Student Opportunity and Outcomes.
Student Opportunity Measures
Regular Attendance
Kindergarten Readiness
Highly Capable Program Participation
High School Level Math in 8th Grade
Student Outcome Measures
4th Grade Reading
8th Grade Reading
8th Grade Math
This year, 100% of Hood Canal’s 8th graders are enrolled in Algebra I, ensuring every student has access to high school–level mathematics before entering ninth grade. The initiative was launched by middle school math teacher Dr. Suzanne Close and reflects the district’s commitment to academic rigor, early preparation, and expanded opportunity for students.
Two years ago, the district adopted a new K–5 English Language Arts curriculum aligned with Washington State standards, strengthening literacy instruction across elementary grades. This year, Hood Canal also launched a new K–5 math intervention support program to provide targeted assistance for students needing additional support.
Central to these improvements has been the district’s implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) — a structured framework that identifies student needs early and provides layered academic and behavioral support. Through regular data review, targeted small-group instruction, and coordinated intervention strategies, staff work collaboratively to ensure students receive the support they need to succeed.
Attendance has also been a major focus. Under the leadership of Principal Steven Torres and the school’s attendance team, Hood Canal School was recently highlighted in an OSPI study as one of five schools in Washington recognized as a model for improving attendance practices. Through proactive family outreach, early intervention strategies, and strong school-community partnerships, the district has significantly reduced chronic absenteeism while strengthening student engagement.
Early learning has also played an important role in the district’s progress. Hood Canal has strengthened its partnership with the Skokomish Tribe and Skokomish Head Start, helping ensure students arrive at school ready to learn. The district’s early learning program integrates Transitional Kindergarten and developmental preschool, a model launched and developed under the leadership of early learning educator Cathy Carlson.
Hood Canal’s progress has also been reinforced through its close partnership with the Skokomish Tribe. The Tribe provides three full-time Native tutors who work in the school daily, supporting students academically while fostering cultural connection and belonging. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to student success and has been instrumental in advancing opportunity and achievement for Native students and the broader school community.
Additional progress has been supported through expanded highly capable programming and enrichment opportunities led by librarian Melanie Lankford, who has strengthened both the school’s library program and services for advanced learners.
Over the past three years, Hood Canal School District has intentionally focused on improving attendance, strengthening foundational skills, aligning instruction to standards, and building systems that ensure every student is known, supported, and challenged. These sustained efforts have resulted in meaningful academic growth across grade levels.
“It is an honor to recognize Hood Canal School District for their dedication to student opportunity and success,” said State Superintendent Chris Reykdal. “Through focused improvement efforts and strong community partnerships, Hood Canal represents the commitment and excellence of Washington’s public schools.”
Hood Canal School District will receive an official banner and plaque from OSPI recognizing its achievement and sustained commitment to student progress.
For more information about the State Superintendent’s Award for Educational Excellence, visit the OPSI Website.