SK Way Awards April 2026

April 2026 SK Way Awards 🏆️ - We recognize Katie Million, Emma Peterson, Malia Vasquez, Jennifer Richardson, Harmony Aguinaldo, Timothy Mosby, Zach Houser/Gilchrist Chevrolet, Chelsea Durbin, and the Mullenix Ridge PTA for "Living the SK Way"!

April 2026 SK Way Awards -  Thank you for living the SK Way

Katie Million

Ms. Katie Million went above and beyond by volunteering her time and talent to lead a Paint Night fundraiser in support of Atlas Free. She created an engaging and welcoming experience for over 40 attendees, helping bring the students’ vision to life. Her generosity, enthusiasm, and dedication contributed to raising $1,170 and made a lasting impact on both students and the community.

Attitude of Gratitude

Award Winner: Katie Million, Teacher at John Sedgwick Middle School

Nominated by: Alanna Speidel

 

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Emma Petersen & Malia Vasquez

Emma and Malia took the initiative to partner with Ms. Million to organize a Paint Night fundraiser benefiting Atlas Free. Through their leadership, creativity, and dedication, they raised $1,170 and brought together over 40 attendees. They generously volunteered their time to plan and host the event, demonstrating compassion, gratitude, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact in the community.

Attitude of Gratitude

Award Winner: Emma Petersen and Malia Vasquez, students at John Sedgwick Middle School

Nominated by: Alanna Speidel

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Jennifer Richardson

Jennifer Richardson consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and staff. She leads with kindness, builds meaningful relationships, and truly cares for the whole child. This year she volunteered her time to provide first aid at every wrestling meet, ensuring student safety and supporting our athletic programs. Jennifer’s generosity, compassion, and dedication make a lasting impact on our school community.

Know Your Purpose

Award Winner: Jennifer Richardson, Office Assistant, JSMS

Nominated by: Alanna Speidel

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Harmony Aguinaldo

This year, Harmony has led the MW Wrestling Team with encouragement, patience, and heart. A wonderful mentor to younger and newer teammates, she offers guidance, instruction, and honest, thoughtful feedback. Whether celebrating progress or bouncing back from a tough defeat, she helps others learn and grow by balancing empathy with knowledge and constructive critique. By lifting those around her and modeling dedication to improvement, Harmony truly embodies the “Get Better Every Day” SK Way value

Get Better Every Day

Award Winner: Harmony Aguinaldo, student at Marcus Whitman Middle School

Nominated by: Lisa Freeman

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Timothy Mosby

They earned a certificate in their Japanese class, have expressed gratitude and have given immense effort in keeping their grades up while also making new friends and supporting their peers. They also have continued to show leadership after leaving their leadership class, inspired by the lessons given, they channel their leadership into MTSS. They have given plenty of ideas for awards for the school to give to other hardworking students, just like them. They are making SK a better place.

Know Your Purpose

Award Winner: Timothy Mosby, student at South Kitsap High School

Nominated by: Rowan Wetmore

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Chelsea Durbin

I have had the privilege of working closely with Chelsea Durbin and I am honored to nominate her for an SK Way Award. Chelsea is an amazing para-educator at MWMS. She enhances the learning environment by making strong connections and relationships with all students. Chelsea shows remarkable patience, dedication, and ability to meet the needs of our students. She is skilled at collaborating with a variety of teachers and subjects. Chelsea knows the curriculum and is proactive with students.

Attitude of Gratitude

Award Winner: Chelsea Durbin, MWMS Paraeducator

Nominated by: Kristen Croston

 

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Zach Houser / Gilchrist Chevrolet

Gilchrist Chevrolet led by Zach Houser has worked very hard to support the students of Sidney Glen Elementary. They have donated a large number of backpacks with school supplies at the beginning of the school year as well as raising over $2000 to support our 5th graders for camp. They have been a great community partner.

Love People

Award Winner: Zach Houser / Gilchrist Chevrolet

Nominated by: Scott Hopkins

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Mullenix Ridge Elementary PTA

The Mullenix Ridge PTA is a powerful example of the SK Way in action. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Mullenix Ridge PTA, and for 35 years they have been dedicated advocates for children and families in our community. The PTA vision is that every child’s potential becomes a reality, and their mission is to support and nurture the students, staff, families, and community of Mullenix Ridge. Through their leadership, 100% staff participation, and an incredible number of students supported through sponsorships from families and community members, they help create a culture where every child and staff member is supported. They have advocated not only within our school, but across our Port Orchard community and even at the state level on behalf of students. They are also active participants in the district’s Circle of Champions, strengthening connections across South Kitsap. These are special people in our community, and what they have done and continue to do at Mullenix Ridge is truly special. Simply put, the Mullenix Ridge PTA helps make our school the special place it is today.

Love People

Award Winner: Mullenix Ridge Elementary PTA

Nominated by: Principal Ryan Douglas