The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

WAITSBURG – January is National School Board Appreciation Month, but board members weren't the only ones receiving recognition at the Jan. 11 Waitsburg School Board meeting.

District Superintendent Dr. Carol Clarke announced that Stephanie Wooderchak has been selected as the 2016-17 Three Rivers Region Middle Level Principal of the Year.

Wooderchak will be acknowledged on the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) website and in AWSP publications. She is now eligible to apply as Washington State Middle Level Principal of the Year and, if selected, will be considered for National Principal of the Year.

Wooderchak has been with the Waitsburg School District since 2008 where she serves as high school and middle school principal, as well as district athletic director. She has worked in school administration for 16 years, 11 years as a principal in Washington and Texas and five years as a superintendent in Winifred, Montana. She and her husband, Jim, moved to Waitsburg when he retired after 23 years in the Air Force, to be closer to family.

Wooderchak, who was recognized by the Preston Hall staff, said she was humbled by the award.

"I would like to thank the Preston Hall staff for nominating me for the award. Our staff's time is precious and for them to take the time to nominate me is just so thoughtful. This award recognizes the hard work of our staff and students, and I see this as a Waitsburg School District award," Wooderchak said.

"I am excited for our school community as a whole, because without everyone playing a role in ensuring the success of our students, we wouldn't be recognized for the numerous awards that our district has received," she added.

Preston Hall staffers submitted these comments regarding Wooderchak's exemplary performance as the building principal.

She has strong leadership skills, despite not being in the building full time. She is a true leader and not just a "figurehead." She exemplifies leadership as a verb not a noun. She responds to questions, concerns and needs in a timely manner.

She is fair and looks out for the best interest of the kids.

She allowed the staff to work collaboratively to design an effective homeroom program that corresponded to building goals, individual goals, and student goals specifically related to academic achievement.

She is a fair disciplinarian, which allows students to feel safe in the school.

She does not micro manage her staff, but allows them to work to their strengths and have a voice.

She makes sure the building has a clear academic goal each year, and monitors student growth of that goal. She knows her students and her staff.

"It is always gratifying to hear that someone is recognized for their work," Clarke said. "In her position as secondary principal, Mrs. Wooderchak has the challenge of managing two buildings, two staffs and two student bodies. Her organization and attention to detail are highly valued. Her leadership at Preston Hall supports the collaborative efforts of the staff as they strive to improve student learning. Our students are the beneficiaries of this effort!"