Chiawana High School Honored with 2025 AWSL “Culture Kick-Off Award” for Excellence in School Culture

Chiawana High School has been selected as a recipient of the 2025 AWSL “Culture Kick-Off Award” by the Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL) and the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP). This statewide recognition celebrates schools that demonstrate an intentional, inclusive, and student-centered approach to building a positive school culture at the start of the academic year.

Chiawana’s application stood out for its collaborative spirit, student leadership, and community-centered vision that have revitalized the school’s culture and strengthened connections between students and staff.

“When I read the criteria for this award — a strong, positive, and inclusive school culture at the start of the academic year — I couldn’t think of a more perfect representation than what our Riverhawks have accomplished,” shared Chiawana Assistant Principal Dr. Michelle Smith who submitted the school’s nomination. “Our students and staff have worked tirelessly to rebuild and reimagine what it means to be part of the Chiawana community.”

A Culture of Co-Leadership: Students and Staff Leading Together

Following boundary changes that accompanied the opening of the new Sageview High School in Pasco, Chiawana students and staff embraced the district’s motto, “One Team, One Dream,” and worked together to define their renewed identity.

Students collaborated with AWSL facilitators, administrators, and advisors to identify opportunities to improve school culture and create a clear action plan. At the same time, staff developed a “reimagining team” to revisit the school’s mission and vision. Together, these efforts led to the creation of the “BLUE Commitment” — a simple, powerful set of core values that reminds everyone to “See the Blue in Everything We Do.”

This partnership has inspired joint ownership of Chiawana’s culture, with students leading the way through ASB and Link Crew, and staff supporting their vision to create a welcoming, inclusive environment for all.

From Planning to Action: Student Voice in Practice

Students put their planning into action through a series of initiatives that shaped the start of the school year, including:

• Social Media Engagement: Students directed and produced an opening-week “hype video” to energize the community and showcase school pride.
• Freshman Welcome Events: Link Crew hosted tours and a pep rally for the incoming Class of 2029, helping new students feel connected and confident.
• Inclusive Activities: Lunchtime events and a vibrant Club Rush — complete with a local coffee truck — helped students connect and feel valued.
• Community Spirit: Student-led pre-game tailgates and themed student sections at athletic events boosted school spirit and attendance, while inspiring staff to host their own “staff nights” in support of students.

Chiawana’s intentional, student-led culture-building has led to a visible shift on campus — marked by increased student engagement, stronger staff-student relationships, and a greater sense of belonging among all members of the school community.

“This recognition truly reflects the heart of who we are at Chiawana,” said Principal Jaime Morales. “Our students are leading with purpose, our staff are supporting with passion, and together, we’re creating a culture where every Riverhawk feels seen, valued, and connected.”

The AWSL Culture Kick-Off Award celebrates schools across Washington that model the power of collaboration between students and adults to create a thriving, inclusive community. Chiawana High School’s recognition underscores its commitment to student voice, connection, and leadership — setting the tone for another outstanding school year.