Anacortes School District and Barrett Financial Announce the Recipients of the 2025 Champions in Education Award

The Anacortes School District, in partnership with Barrett Financial, is excited to announce the recipients of the 2025 Champions in Education Award. This first-year award includes two $5,000 grants—one for a classified/non-represented staff member and one for a certificated staff member—and recognizes staff who go “above and beyond” in supporting students and creating positive educational experiences. This prestigious award ensures those who make a significant impact on students are celebrated and valued.

Julie Van Quickenborne – Classified/Non-Represented Staff Employee of the Year
Paraeducator, Island View Elementary

Julie Van Quickenborne is the recipient of the Classified/Non-Represented Staff Employee of the Year award. With over a decade of service, Julie has contributed significantly in various roles, including volunteering at school events, working as a substitute paraeducator, and serving in a Life Skills classroom. In her current role as a 1:1 Special Education paraeducator, Julie works with a visually impaired student, ensuring their independence and inclusion. Her dedication to equity, inclusion, and creating personalized learning opportunities exemplifies this award. Julie’s commitment to professional growth such as learning braille to support her students further demonstrates her dedication to student success.

Amy Kammenga – Certificated Staff Employee of the Year
Special Education Teacher, Island View Elementary

Amy Kammenga is the recipient of the Certificated Staff Employee of the Year award. Amy tailors instruction to meet each student's unique needs, ensuring all students feel supported. She has played a key role in creating an inclusive classroom, especially for nonverbal students using Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) devices. Amy’s creative lesson planning, commitment to professional growth, and collaboration on IEP development ensure her students’ success academically, socially, and emotionally. She builds strong relationships with students, families, and the community. The funds from this award will help Amy continue her development in AAC and assistive technology and enhance classroom resources.

Julie and Amy will be honored at the School Board meeting on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 6:15 PM in the Anacortes High School Library. Please join us in congratulating both for their well-deserved recognition and thanking them for their tireless dedication to Anacortes students! Amy Hong, owner of Barrett Financial, expressed pride in partnering with the Anacortes School District to present the Champions in Education Award. "Their commitment to students, equity, and innovation is inspiring, and we are pleased to celebrate their valuable work in our community.  We believe in the power of an equitable learning journey for every student and are excited to be able to offer these annual awards to recognize and support outstanding staff and educators,” Hong said. Superintendent Justin Irish also congratulated Julie and Amy, emphasizing their dedication to fostering inclusive, supportive, and enriching environments for students. “These grants honor individuals who make a lasting impact on our school community, and we are thrilled they are being recognized by Barrett Financial,” Irish added.