Dana Wilson, a multilingual learner paraeducator with the Washougal School District, has been named the 2026 Washington State Classified School Employee of the Year by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The statewide honor recognizes Wilson’s exceptional dedication to student success, her advocacy for multilingual learners and their families, and her commitment to fostering a school culture in which every student feels supported and empowered to succeed.
Wilson was named the 2026 Regional Classified School Employee of the Year by Educational Service District 112. She was selected from among regional honorees across Washington for the state’s highest recognition for classified school employees.
“I’m incredibly honored to receive this award and to represent the dedicated classified staff who make a difference for students every day,” Wilson said. “For me, this work has always been about building relationships, helping students overcome challenges, and ensuring every child knows they belong and have a bright future. I’m fortunate to work alongside so many people who share that commitment.”
“Dana Wilson exemplifies the best of Washougal School District,” said Washougal School District Superintendent Aaron Hansen. “Her dedication, collaborative spirit, and ability to build strong relationships with students, staff, and families create the trust and sense of belonging students need to thrive. Dana approaches her work with skill, kindness and humility, always focusing on student success. This statewide recognition is a fitting tribute to her impact, and we are proud to celebrate this achievement with her.”
Wilson works closely with teachers, family support staff, counselors, and social workers to identify barriers to student success, strengthen family connections, and ensure students receive individualized support. She also regularly monitors academic progress and adjusts instructional strategies to help students build confidence and achieve their goals. “Dana understands that learning cannot happen without trust,” wrote David Cooke, principal of Jemtegaard Middle School, in his letter supporting her nomination. “For many of our immigrant students, life experiences have made trust difficult.” “Dana has an extraordinary ability to make students feel seen, valued and capable of achieving great things,” Cooke said. “She builds the kind of trust that changes how students see themselves and what they believe is possible for their futures. Her impact reaches far beyond the classroom, and we couldn’t be prouder to see her recognized at the state level.”
Wilson also shares her expertise with educators across the region. For the past two years, she has served as a co-presenter and facilitated table discussions at ESD 112’s spring Multilingual Mini-Conference. She has also presented strategies to strengthen family engagement, helping other educators build meaningful connections with the students and families they serve.
The Classified School Employee of the Year program honors outstanding classified employees whose work makes a meaningful difference for students, schools, and communities across Washington.
To learn more about the award, visit OSPI’s Classified School Employee of the Year webpage.
