The following employees were selected to receive the April Employee Excellence Awards and recognition at the April 2026 school board meeting.
Employees are recognized between October and June of each school year. Nominations are open to staff, students, parents and community members. Nominees are selected for recognition by a committee of their peers.
In addition to awardees chosen by the peer nomination and Excellence Awards committee voting process, the Board of Directors may recognize recipients who have been nominated by the Superintendent’s Cabinet for demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to VPS students and their families.
Chuck Collum
Construction Trades Teacher at Skyview High School
Congratulations to Chuck Collum, Construction Trades Teacher at Skyview. Chuck has been instrumental in expanding Skyview’s Construction Trades program from a single class into a premier, full-day career pathway. By blending his background in Math and Engineering with hands-on trade skills, he provides students with a rigorous, real-world education. Chuck’s advocacy ensures no student is left behind. A true mentor and career coach, he bridges the gap between the classroom and the workforce, consistently doing “good things” for the next generation of builders. Thank you, Chuck.
Ty Stanley
Engagement Specialist at McLoughlin Middle School
We celebrate Engagement Specialist Ty Stanley, who brings an unmatched energy and dedication to the Mac community. Whether he is jumping into action to ensure student safety in a crisis or patiently building relationships to help a student through a difficult day, Ty leads with a selfless heart. His colleagues and students admire him for being a versatile leader who balances firm accountability with genuine kindness, serving as a mentor to everyone he encounters. Thank you, Ty.
Merritt Hitzeman-Anzjon
FCRC Coordinator at Hudson’s Bay High School
Congratulations to Hudson’s Bay FCRC, Merritt Hitzeman-Anzjon. Her nominator captured her impact perfectly: “Merritt goes above and beyond for her students! She helps students and their families not only with essential needs but makes them feel supported and welcomed. Merritt has demonstrated exceptional dedication to strengthening our local community while embodying the core values of our school district. Beyond fulfilling their professional responsibilities with excellence, they have taken a proactive role in organizing and participating in community events that have had a meaningful impact on everyone involved.” Thank you, Merritt.
Julia Morrison
Teacher at Open Doors/Heights Campus
We are proud to recognize teacher Julia Morrison for her commitment to the students of the Open Doors program. Julia has reimagined learning at Heights Campus, moving away from just “checking boxes” toward competency-based pathways that focus on real skill development. By building a culture where every student feels they belong, she helped a record 30 graduates reach the finish line this past year. Julia is a true bridge-builder, ensuring that no matter where a student starts, they have the support they need to succeed. Thank you, Julia.
Arlisa Hinton
Math Teacher and Unified Coach at Fort Vancouver High School
Congratulations to Arlisa Hinton, Math Teacher and Unified Basketball Coach at Fort Vancouver. Whether she is providing individualized math support with her signature “lively banter” or fostering a safe, inclusive environment for Unified Basketball, Arlisa leads with her heart. Her colleagues and students admire her for being a “kid person” who balances a firm demeanor with deep empathy. Arlisa’s ability to build a team culture that transcends the classroom and the court is inspiring. Thank you, Arlisa.
