The following employees were selected to receive the March Employee Excellence Awards and recognition at the March 2025 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.
Dave Darke
Building Operator, Eisenhower Elementary
At Eisenhower Elementary, Dave Darke’s presence is a constant source of reassurance. As the building operator, he’s more than just a caretaker; he’s a vital contributor to the school’s positive atmosphere. Dave’s exceptional dedication is evident in his proactive approach, where he anticipates and addresses potential issues before they disrupt the learning environment. He’s a problem-solver who ensures everything functions seamlessly, from routine maintenance to complex repairs. Beyond his technical skills, Dave’s warm and approachable nature fosters a strong sense of community. He’s always ready to assist, offering a friendly smile and a helping hand to students and staff alike. His positive attitude and team spirit make him a cherished member of the Eisenhower family, ensuring the school is not only safe and well-maintained, but also a welcoming and supportive place for everyone. Thank you, Dave.
Martha De La Paz Castro
Application Specialist, ITS
Martha De La Paz Castro, Application Specialist with ITS, has consistently made a remarkable impact across her department and the district as a whole. Whether she’s stepping up with enthusiasm to fill a critical project role, expertly and reliably supporting our widely used applications (like ParentSquare and ParentVUE), or collaborating seamlessly with other departments to develop innovative solutions, Martha consistently excels. Her clear, friendly, and approachable communication fosters strong, positive relationships, making her not only a wonderful colleague but also a dependable team member who’s always eager to lend a helping hand. We are incredibly fortunate to have Martha’s dedication, positive spirit, and exceptional skills supporting our staff and families. Thank you, Martha.
Morgan Kearney
Teacher, Vancouver School of Arts and Academics (VSAA)
Morgan Kearney, literary arts, English, and theater teacher at VSAA, cultivates learning environments where every student feels genuinely valued and learning is a source of joy. Her nominator, VSAA student Emma, shares, “Her classroom is so friendly and she made our class feel like one big family.” Beyond academics, Morgan’s sincere care is evident in her unwavering encouragement and deep belief in each student’s individual potential. VSAA students know they can rely on her for support, a listening ear, and a shared laugh, creating a nurturing and inspiring atmosphere where they belong and are inspired to do their best. As her student nominator puts it, “Mrs. Kearney is an amazing teacher!” Thank you, Morgan.
Kathleen Proudfoot
Teacher, Sacajawea Elementary
At Sacajawea Elementary, Kathleen Proudfoot’s music and dance classes are more than just lessons; they’re an expression of her profound love for the arts. Her infectious enthusiasm inspires students to explore and grow, creating a welcoming space for them to try new things. Her dedication to inclusivity is evident in her efforts to learn Spanish and connect with her multilingual students. Her nominator shares, “I can see the comfort in their eyes when she talks to them in their language.” Beyond the classroom, Kathleen’s support is unwavering. She cheers on students at afterschool events and consistently lends a helping hand to her peers. Her nominator recounts, “In all the giving, Kathleen does it with a big smile and with words of encouragement.” Thank you, Kathleen.
Wendy Thompson
Teacher, Vancouver Innovation, Technology & Arts (VITA) and Lincoln Elementary
For many years, Wendy Thompson has been a cornerstone of our district’s arts and creative movement programs. Currently teaching at VITA and Lincoln Elementary, her influence extends far beyond these schools, leaving a lasting legacy across our district. Nominated by colleagues, parents, and students alike, Wendy’s passion for the arts is truly remarkable. She masterfully weaves creative movement with academic learning, broadening students’ horizons with diverse perspectives. Wendy brings lots of laughter, creativity and empathy to her work and is dedicated to helping her students build confidence in themselves as they try new things. As Wendy approaches retirement, we celebrate the immeasurable joy, passion, and dedication she has brought to our schools and community. She has inspired generations of students, fostering a love for movement, inclusivity, and lifelong learning. Thank you, Wendy.
