Chelan Middle School applauded by state education organizations for its 'passion for student success'

A well deserved honor given to Chelan Middle School by the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) and the Association of Washington Student Leaders.

The Washington Schools on the Rise Award celebrates Chelan Middle School as redefining what’s possible through strong student-adult collaboration, intentional systems of support, and a deeply positive school culture.

“Chelan Middle School stood out as a shining example of these values in action,” wrote the Principals and Student Leaders organizations that presented the award.  “Your work this year has been truly transformational. Through a clearly defined Student Intervention Team (SIT) system, you've ensured no student slips through the cracks academically, behaviorally, or emotionally. With the thoughtful use of staff collaboration time, you've prioritized early intervention and created a campus-wide net of support.”

The congratulatory letter sent to Lake Chelan school Superintendent Brad Wilson and Chelan Middle School Principal Terry Sanders emphasized, “Equally impressive is your revitalized Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) system. From weekly core value focus areas to monthly student recognition assemblies, your school is living its values in tangible, energizing ways. The introduction of Goat Bucks and the Goat Store—funded by the Lake Chelan Rotary grant —has become a beloved part of campus culture, motivating students while reinforcing positive behavior and school pride.

“One of the most powerful indicators of growth is the incredible progress you’ve made in student literacy.  Your school-wide, targeted literacy enrichment cycles, delivered by every teacher—not just ELA staff—demonstrated both innovation and teamwork. Your 6th graders' 136% average growth is extraordinary and speaks volumes about your commitment to academic excellence.

“What truly makes Chelan Middle School a School on the Rise is your belief in collective responsibility—where every adult and every student contributes to the culture and learning climate. The result is a school described by its leaders as having “the healthiest and most positive” atmosphere they’ve ever experienced.

“We are proud to recognize your hard work, your collaboration, and your passion for student success.”