The following employees were selected to receive the May Employee Excellence Awards and recognition at the May 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.
Anatoliy Romanchenko
Swing Lead Custodian at Columbia River High School
We are proud to celebrate Anatoliy Romanchenko, the Swing Lead Custodian at Columbia River, whose personal dedication and kindness make a lasting impact on our school community. His nominator describes the sincere care he brings to his work:
“Anatoliy takes great pride in maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment… He is always willing to lend a helping hand—whether assisting teachers, responding quickly to maintenance concerns, or offering support wherever it is needed. Beyond his hard work, he is known for his friendly demeanor and genuine kindness. He greets students and staff with a smile and treats everyone with respect.” Thank you, Anatoliy.
Kristin Sharber
Instructional Coach at Hazel Dell Elementary
We are thrilled to celebrate Kristin Sharber, Instructional Coach at Hazel Dell Elementary. Her nominator highlights just how essential she is to the daily rhythm of the school:
“Kristin wears so many hats at Hazel Dell! We wouldn’t be able to keep our calm without her. She is a resource for lessons and learning, de-escalating tense situations, and supporting kids in creative ways… She has such a calm presence and works tirelessly to make sure students, teachers, and staff feel successful.” Thank you, Kristin.
Christie Werner
LAP Specialist at Hazel Dell Elementary
We are proud to recognize Christie Werner, LAP Reading Specialist at Hazel Dell Elementary. Her nominator highlights the passion and expertise she brings to her role:
“Christie embodies the phrase ‘lifelong learner,’ constantly pushing herself to lead the best practices of teaching through research and training. She creates an environment where every student feels valued and capable, reinforcing the belief that every student can be both a leader and a reader. Her encouragement, patience, and positivity help students build not only their reading skills but also their confidence.” Thank you, Christie.
Hannah Wessel
Student Advocate at Skyview High School
Congratulations to Hannah Wessel, Student Advocate at Skyview. Her nominator speaks to the genuine, personal care she brings to her students as they navigate their way toward graduation:
“Hannah is an integral part of learning for students who need someone in their corner… She does her very best to meet every student where they are, welcoming them one and all. Hannah works tirelessly to build a community, showing up for them over and over without judgement as they navigate their academic choices. She is a person that the students turn to when they are struggling, but also in triumph.” Thank you, Hannah
Congratulations to these staff members!
They join the many VPS employees who have received Excellence Awards since 2007.
