Congratulations to our two Spirit of the ESD Award winners for 2026! These awardees exemplify everything that the best ESD 112 employees are known for: outstanding leadership, creativity and servanthood in their daily work.

As a reminder, staff can view current and past winners and nominate coworkers at any time through our form on the Intranet here (requires login). You can also read through all the nominations for 2026 here.

""

District-Based Winner

Elizabeth LesterStudent & School Success
“Mrs. Liz’s “customer service” is measured entirely by community trust, accessibility, and real student outcomes everyone sees. The ultimate, unassailable proof of her stellar service is written clearly in the data: Klickitat High School’s attendance numbers show a sharp, undeniable spike and steady maintenance directly correlating to the exact timeline of her hiring and work with Klickitat students. She is the definitive reason at-risk youth choose to show up to the building, she is a force that kids are drawn to and respond to in all the right ways.”
""

Main Campus Winner

Jessica SandersSchool Liability Programs
“Jessica is always ready to jump in to help and assist in any way. She is a strong team player who actively collaborates with others and contributes to the overall success of the team through her reliability and support. Jessica has strengthened our department’s effectiveness by maintaining accurate, up-to-date distribution lists for all member districts, ensuring risk and safety messages reach the right individuals quickly and consistently. Jessica is the positive, professional and helpful employee in the School Liability Programs that we all want to work with and have on our team.”