The following employees were selected to receive the November Employee Excellence Awards and recognition at the November 2026 school board meeting.
Employees are recognized between October and June of each school year. Nominations are open to staff, students, parents and community members. Nominees are selected for recognition by a committee of their peers.
In addition to awardees chosen by the peer nomination and Excellence Awards committee voting process, the Board of Directors may recognize recipients who have been nominated by the Superintendent’s Cabinet for demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to VPS students and their families.
Jessica Bray
Teacher and Volleyball Coach at Gaiser Middle School
Jessica Bray, English and AVID Teacher at Gaiser, creates a classroom filled with encouragement, high expectations, and deep care. Nominated by a student who calls her an “amazing teacher and supporter,” Jessica is finely tuned to individual needs – adapting her teaching so every student can master key skills and thrive. When attempting to explain the special energy in her room, her student nominator simply said, “I don’t know how to explain it, it’s just that cool.” Thank you, Jessica.
Larissa Crandall
Paraeducator at Vancouver Home Connection/Heights
Larissa Crandall, Paraeducator at Vancouver Home Connection, brings patience, positivity and a love of learning to her work. She takes time to understand students’ individual learning goals, and finds new ways to support their academic, behavioral and social growth. Whether she’s helping in a familiar classroom or stepping into a new one, Larissa is always asking, “How can I help?” and is a dependable teammate. Thank you, Larissa.
Tiffany Morrisey
Science Teacher at Vancouver School of Arts & Academics
Tiffany Morrisey is a thoughtful, steady, and deeply generous teacher leader who embodies our district’s core values. At VSAA, she leads the middle school interdisciplinary teaching team, connecting learning across subjects through creative, project-based lessons while ensuring every student has the tailored support to succeed. Beyond the classroom, Tiffany recently transformed the staff room into a warm, collaborative space where colleagues can connect and recharge. Thank you, Tiffany.
Stoney Myers
Principal at Washington Elementary
Principal Stoney Myers leads Washington Elementary with integrity, heart, and a unique ability to lift up students and staff alike. Colleagues share that Stoney challenges them to grow in ways no other leader has, while students flourish in an environment where they feel safe, motivated, and capable of anything. That dual impact lasts for years – from teachers who carry his encouragement throughout their careers to former students who still say, “He believed in me.” Thank you, Stoney.
Heather Williams
School Nurse at Alki, Felida, Washington and Hudson’s Bay
Heather Williams is known for her nursing expertise, sense of humor and willingness to help wherever she’s needed. Whether she’s mentoring new nurses, answering questions about student medical needs or lending a hand to others, Heather makes time to support her colleagues and care for students. Her fellow nurses describe her as a trusted resource, natural leader and someone who brings humor and kindness to even the busiest days. Thank you, Heather.
Congratulations to these staff members!
They join the many VPS employees who have received Excellence Awards since 2007.