Valerie Aragon Receives 2025 Sergio Hernández Leadership Award

The Pasco School District is proud to announce that Valerie Aragon, Pasco School District’s Executive Director of Teaching & Learning – Elementary, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Sergio Hernández Leadership Award by the Washington Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (WALAS). Aragon received the honor during the 4th Annual WALAS Conference held in Seattle this past weekend.

The award, named in honor of respected former superintendent and mentor Sergio Hernández (pictured with Valerie), recognizes educators who exemplify leadership in advancing equity, cultural competence, and educational access for all students.

Aragon was celebrated for her transformative leadership in bilingual education, her deep commitment to community partnerships, and her mentorship of emerging Latino/a/x leaders across Washington State. Through her work in Pasco, she has elevated heritage language and cultural identity as essential components of student success, shaping a district culture that values and amplifies the voices of Latino families.

Beyond her programmatic accomplishments, Aragon’s leadership is deeply rooted in community connection. She has worked tirelessly to ensure Latino families are not just participants but true partners in shaping educational systems. Her collaborative approach has transformed how the district listens, engages, and responds to the voices of historically marginalized families—especially first-generation immigrant communities.

“Valerie’s leadership is courageous, compassionate, and culturally grounded,” said nominator Inés Capetillo, a principal and former colleague in the Kennewick School District. “She challenges systems of inequity while building bridges between schools and the communities they serve. Her work reflects the very best of what we hope for in educational leadership.”

Pasco Superintendent Michelle Whitney added, “Valerie embodies the heart of Pasco’s mission to celebrate diversity, foster belonging, and empower every learner. Her leadership continues to strengthen our partnerships with families and ensure every child sees their identity and culture reflected in their education.”

Aragon joins a distinguished group of statewide leaders who have been recognized by WALAS for advancing equity and access in public education.

About WALAS

The Washington Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (WALAS) is dedicated to promoting equitable educational systems and supporting Latino leadership across Washington State. WALAS works to build leadership capacity among educators, advocate for inclusive policies, and ensure that all students—especially those of Latino heritage—have access to the opportunities they deserve.