Employee Awards
The Yakima School District, together with the Crystal Apple Co-Chairs and the Yakima Schools Foundation, invites you to celebrate your educators by nominating them for an Excellence in Education Award by April 13, 2025 at 4:00 PM. After nominations close, we look forward to gathering as a community to recognize our educators and community leaders at the Excellence in Education Awards on May 8, 2025, at 5:00 pm in the Davis High School Auditorium.
2025 Crystal Apple Recipients
This award, given by the Yakima business community and co-chaired by Carmela Solorzano and Drew Harris, honors the teacher or certified educator profession by awarding individuals who positively impact the lives and futures of their students.
Trindi Alvizo, 7th Grade Read 180/Reading Intervention at Washington Middle School
Josh Holliday, Medical Sciences Teacher at YV-Tech
Amae Merrill, 3rd Grade Teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School
Justin Regalado, Kindergarten Teacher at Gilbert Elementary School
Natalia Rodriguez, 6th Grade Read 180/Reading Intervention at Washington Middle School
2025 Shining Star Recipients
This award recognizes the outstanding achievements of Yakima Public Schools’ classified employees. It honors employees who consistently demonstrate outstanding work performance, exemplary leadership, collaboration, and dedication to the district and its mission daily.
Jazmin Talavera, Front Desk Coordinator/ Receptionist at Central Services
Blanca Zepeda, Student and Family Liaison at Hoover Elementary SchoolKristy Calkins, Athletics/Activities Secretary and Facility Rental Coordinator at Central Services
Joy Haughton, Paraeducator at Nob Hill Elementary School
Ibet Vargas, Behavior Paraprofessional at McClure Elementary School
2025 Yakima Schools Foundation Champion of Youth Award
This award recognizes unwavering dedication, compassion, and commitment to youth development. Whether through mentorship, teaching, volunteering, or simply being a consistent positive influence, the recipient has made a lasting difference in the lives of the youth.
Their efforts remind us that education is not just about academics but also about encouragement, empowerment, and creating opportunities for growth. This recipient embodies the spirit of community and the belief that every student deserves to be seen, supported, and inspired.
Rodney Hankinson