2017 OESD Regional Classified Employee of the Year Honored at North Kitsap School Board Meeting
Photo Back Row: Superintendent Patty Page, Board Director Glen Robbins, Board Director Jim Almond. Front Row: Board Director Cindy Webster-Martinson, Classified School Employee of the Year Tonja Smith, OESD Superintendent Greg Lynch, Board President Beth Worthington.On Thursday, April 27, 2017, Olympic ESD Superintendent Greg Lynch presented Tonja Smith, Office Manager at North Kitsap High School, with the Regional Classified School Employee of the year award at North Kitsap’s School Board Meeting.In Celebration of Tonja’s award, North Kitsap School District highlighted her contributions and said it best with the following commentary: “If you have been a parent or a staff member at North Kitsap High School in the past 22 years, then you know what an incredible person Tonja is! When Tonja came to North Kitsap in 1995, she had already been serving schools in California for over 10 years. When she was asked to “help” set up a computer lab in her school, Tonja researched equipment, built a computer lab, learned the software and taught the teachers and students how to use computers for the first time.
When Tonja saw a need at her high school to start a girls soccer team, she created a championship program where 23 years later students still earn the “Tonja Smith Award for Excellence” in girls’ soccer. Tonja has brought that same commitment to students to North Kitsap. French Teacher Lola Haveman said “She has a heart for others and serves them with humility and patience every day.” We are so fortunate to have Tonja as a part of the North Kitsap team and congratulate her on this honor.” Tonja, your entire region is proud of you!