North Star awards are your chance to nominate a coworker or staff member for going the extra mile to support student success in Pasco Schools. Those receiving North Star Awards will receive a surprise announcement from Superintendent Whitney.
Recipients will only receive one North Star per year.
The North Star submission form will be open from September 18- March 1 to allow presentation scheduling. North Stars will only be accepted through this form.
Crystal Apple "Excellence in Education" Awards are regional awards given to certified employees in local districts. The awards are coordinated by Education Service District 123 and sponsored by hundreds of local businesses, organizations, and individuals committed to recognizing outstanding instructional leadership. In addition to a bounty of donated gifts and a crystal apple award, recipients are presented with $1,000 to use towards anything they wish. The Crystal Apple Awards are presented in March by area superintendents.
2024 Crystal Apple Nominations Now Open
Nominations for the 2024 Crystal Apple Awards are now open and again this year the application process is quick and easy. Please nominate an outstanding employee who meets the following criteria by completing a quick online form by December 1.
A. Nominees must be certificated employees who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in education. Teams of no more than 4 teachers may be nominated as well, however, individual nominations are encouraged.
B. Nominations should reflect the following:
C. Knowledge of subject: Nominees must demonstrate dedication to professional growth; have a thorough knowledge of their subject matter, the ability to share that knowledge effectively with students; and a willingness to share their expertise with other education professionals.
The nominee's primary focus is the student.
Enthusiasm and versatility in dealing with the individual needs of students and the ability to reach students in ways that contribute to their increased knowledge, talents, and self-esteem.
Creative use of resources and curriculum.
Special attention is given to preparation and development of a constructive learning environment.
Outstanding peer relationships (is a team builder).
The ability to develop parental spooky support and respect.
The ability to inspire students to appreciate and seek learning in order to attain their maximum potential in life.
2023 Winner
Miguel Taboada Named PSD 2023 Crystal Apple Award Winner
We are pleased to announce Miguel Taboada, Stevens Middle School English Language Development Math and Science Teacher, is this year's Crystal Apple Award winner.
Michelle Whitney, Superintendent, district staff, co-workers, and family members surprised Mr. Taboada with the news, a plant, and a $100 gift card from Stevens PEAK! Partner, Gesa Credit Union.
Several people nominated Mr. Taboada for the Crystal Apple Award, and the nominations voiced a similar theme. He is an educator who motivates students to overcome obstacles in their personal lives and school.
He has an excellent way of celebrating his students' cultures and native languages and using those assets to build their foundation in English. He has transitioned many newcomer (students who have limited English proficiency and/or no formal education in their native countries) students from middle school grade-level general education math classes to advanced high school math courses. Not only have students accessed these courses in middle school, but they have also been able to continue to take college-level math courses upon entering high school.
Miguel was presented with a Crystal Apple Award on March 9 at the Educational Service District (ESD) 123 in Pasco. He will also be a nominee for the Washington State Teacher of the Year award.
