Hood Canal School is proud to share that school counselor Monica Carlson has received the Elevate Award at the 2026 Washington School Counseling Conference, a statewide recognition honoring exceptional advocacy and leadership in the field of school counseling.
The Elevate Award recognizes school counselors who make a significant impact on Comprehensive School Counseling Programs across Washington State while helping elevate the profession through advocacy, leadership, and service.
Carlson’s work extends well beyond the school building. She serves on the Washington School Counselor Association (WSCA) Advocacy Committee, where she collaborates with school counseling leaders from across the state to support policies and initiatives that benefit students. As part of this work, Carlson participates in regular meetings throughout the year and joins fellow advocates annually in Olympia to meet with legislators and senators. During these meetings, counselors share the important role school counselors play in supporting student success and discuss priority education issues affecting schools across Washington.
At Hood Canal School, Carlson works closely with students, families, and staff to support student well-being, academic success, and social-emotional growth. Her leadership helps ensure that every student has access to the support and guidance they need to thrive.
“Monica’s work reflects the heart of what school counseling is all about—advocating for students and helping them succeed both in and out of the classroom,” said Superintendent Dr. Lance Gibbon. “We are incredibly proud to see her recognized at the state level for the important work she is doing.”
Carlson shared that she is grateful for the recognition and for the opportunity to work alongside other advocates across Washington to strengthen school counseling programs for students statewide.
The photo from the conference includes Carlson with Jenny Morgan, WSCA Legislative Advocate, and Lauren Mendez, WSCA Chief Executive Officer, both of whom work closely with the WSCA Advocacy Committee in support of school counseling across Washington.
Hood Canal School congratulates Monica Carlson on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for the tremendous impact she continues to make for students and families in the Hood Canal community.