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News Release

Kelso High School's Tammy Smith Named 2027 Regional Teacher Of The Year (Photo) - 06/17/26

KELSO, WA — Kelso School District is proud to announce that Kelso High School Special Education Teacher and Department Chair Tammy Smith has been selected as the 2027 Regional Teacher of the Year for Educational Service District 112.

 

The prestigious honor recognizes educators who exemplify excellence in teaching, leadership, innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. Smith was selected from among outstanding educators across Southwest Washington and will now advance as a candidate for Washington State Teacher of the Year.

 

For more than two decades, Smith has dedicated her career to ensuring all students have opportunities to learn, belong, and thrive. As a special education teacher, department chair, and leader of Kelso High School's Unified programs, she has built a culture where inclusion is not simply encouraged—it is expected.

 

"Tammy embodies everything this award represents," said Superintendent Mary Beth Tack. "She believes deeply in the potential of every student and works tirelessly to remove barriers so they can succeed. Her leadership has transformed opportunities for students with disabilities not only in Kelso, but throughout our region and across the state."

 

Smith's impact is reflected in both student outcomes and school culture. Under her leadership and advocacy, Kelso High School's graduation rate for students with disabilities has reached 74.1 percent, significantly above the state average. She has also expanded Unified Sports opportunities, helping students of all abilities build friendships, develop leadership skills, and experience a true sense of belonging.

 

Beyond Kelso, Smith has helped grow Unified programming throughout Southwest Washington and has played a key role in preparing Kelso students to serve as leaders and mentors on the national stage. She also created the annual Bridging the Gap Transition Services Event, connecting students and families with community organizations, agencies, and resources that support successful transitions to life after high school.

 

Regional Teacher of the Year candidates are evaluated on their ability to inspire student success, collaborate with families and colleagues, foster strong community connections, demonstrate innovation and leadership, and effectively communicate the impact of public education.

 

For Smith, the recognition is a reflection of the students, families, and colleagues who have shaped her work.

 

"Tammy's influence extends far beyond the walls of her classroom," said Tack. "She has changed lives through her compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to helping every student discover their strengths and reach their goals. We couldn't be more proud to see her recognized at the regional level."

 

Smith will be honored at an upcoming ESD 112 board meeting and will continue in consideration for Washington State Teacher of the Year. The State Teacher of the Year is selected in mid-late summer or early fall.

 

 

About Kelso School District

Kelso School District has a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. Our mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.

Attached Media Files: Tammy Smith, Tammy Smith, Tammy Smith, Tammy Smith,

Kelso High School's Tammy Smith Named 2027 Regional Teacher Of The Year (Photo) - 06/17/26

KELSO, WA — Kelso School District is proud to announce that Kelso High School Special Education Teacher and Department Chair Tammy Smith has been selected as the 2027 Regional Teacher of the Year for Educational Service District 112.

 

The prestigious honor recognizes educators who exemplify excellence in teaching, leadership, innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. Smith was selected from among outstanding educators across Southwest Washington and will now advance as a candidate for Washington State Teacher of the Year.

 

For more than two decades, Smith has dedicated her career to ensuring all students have opportunities to learn, belong, and thrive. As a special education teacher, department chair, and leader of Kelso High School's Unified programs, she has built a culture where inclusion is not simply encouraged—it is expected.

 

"Tammy embodies everything this award represents," said Superintendent Mary Beth Tack. "She believes deeply in the potential of every student and works tirelessly to remove barriers so they can succeed. Her leadership has transformed opportunities for students with disabilities not only in Kelso, but throughout our region and across the state."

 

Smith's impact is reflected in both student outcomes and school culture. Under her leadership and advocacy, Kelso High School's graduation rate for students with disabilities has reached 74.1 percent, significantly above the state average. She has also expanded Unified Sports opportunities, helping students of all abilities build friendships, develop leadership skills, and experience a true sense of belonging.

 

Beyond Kelso, Smith has helped grow Unified programming throughout Southwest Washington and has played a key role in preparing Kelso students to serve as leaders and mentors on the national stage. She also created the annual Bridging the Gap Transition Services Event, connecting students and families with community organizations, agencies, and resources that support successful transitions to life after high school.

 

Regional Teacher of the Year candidates are evaluated on their ability to inspire student success, collaborate with families and colleagues, foster strong community connections, demonstrate innovation and leadership, and effectively communicate the impact of public education.

 

For Smith, the recognition is a reflection of the students, families, and colleagues who have shaped her work.

 

"Tammy's influence extends far beyond the walls of her classroom," said Tack. "She has changed lives through her compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to helping every student discover their strengths and reach their goals. We couldn't be more proud to see her recognized at the regional level."

 

Smith will be honored at an upcoming ESD 112 board meeting and will continue in consideration for Washington State Teacher of the Year. The State Teacher of the Year is selected in mid-late summer or early fall.

 

 

About Kelso School District

Kelso School District has a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. Our mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.

Attached Media Files: Tammy Smith, Tammy Smith, Tammy Smith, Tammy Smith,