Submitted by the San Juan Island School District.

As the school year comes to a close, we are thrilled to announce three awards that San Juan Island School District has recently received. Friday Harbor Elementary and Middle schools were both recognized by the Washington State Board of Education as “2023-2024 Washington State Recognized Schools.” This is an honor that only 16% of schools in our state received. Both schools were specifically recognized for Growth for English Learner Students. You can find more information and the full list of recognized schools at https://sbe.wa.gov/our-work/school-recognition.

Additionally, the San Juan Island School District’s school nutrition team received the Innovation in the Preparation of School Meals Award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. This small but mighty team constantly excels at preparing healthy meals with a creative menu that regularly showcases local ingredients. According to FNS Administrator James Miller, “[Their] accomplishment aligns with [the USDA Secretary’s] vision to streamline operations and put farmers first, ensuring that we not only nourish the next generation but also support the backbone of America’s agriculture.”