Shelley Ramirez is the first Washington State Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year!

Thompson Elementary’s own Shelley Ramirez has been named the first ever Washington State Assistant Principal of the Year. Ramirez was selected by the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) from more than 2,000 schools in the state to receive the honor.

During a morning assembly where she was surprised with the news, many spoke about her accolades, but none was more moving than a letter written by one of her students that was read to the crowd of more than 700.

“Ms. Ramirez, you are the best assistant principal in the whole wide world. You have been my favorite principal since kindergarten. I thank you for always being there for me on my good days, my bad days, my test days, my no test days. Thank you for being extra motivation for me. You are truly the best in the galaxy, and beyond.” — Johnni

Ron Sisson, Director of Principal Support for AWSP, recognized Ramirez for being an outstanding leader and motivator.

“We are so impressed with Shelley’s work, and are proud to have her represent not only her school, and the Bethel School District, but assistant principals across the state, as Washington State’s Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year,” he said.

Thompson’s Principal Ralph Wisner told the crowd that this award was in honor of many years of hard work.

“It’s that hard work every day that gets you those awards. It’s not one day of being great. It’s every day of being great, and how you push yourself to be even better,” he said.

With her mom in attendance, Ramirez thanked the crowd for their support.

“I really could not have done this in any other school with any other people. You guys are what make my job so easy, so enjoyable, and I love being here,” she said.

After she received her award, a crowd of students lined up to give Ramirez a hug before heading off to class for the day.