Recognizing Community Excellence During Partners In Learning Month (Photo) -05/21/25
WALLA WALLA - Fifteen years ago, Walla Walla Public Schools established May as Partners in Learning Month — a time-honored tradition dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of our community. During a special recognition ceremony at the May 20 school board meeting, the Walla Walla School Board proudly honored the 2025 Partners of the Year. These four outstanding partners exemplify dedication, compassion and a shared commitment to student success.
Blue Mountain Action Council – Backpack Bridge Program
Since 2017, BMAC has been a lifeline for students facing food insecurity through its Backpack Bridge Program. This initiative provides weekend meals to students who might otherwise go without — including many of the more than 200 students currently served by our McKinney-Vento program. This year, as the need has grown, BMAC has responded with remarkable generosity. In total, they have distributed more than 11,000 bags of food across all WWPS schools — a contribution valued at over $77,000. Their efforts ensure students return to school each Monday nourished and ready to learn.
Walla Walla Community College
Walla Walla Community College continues to be a pillar of support for career-connected learning and student advancement. Through hands-on Try-a-Trade events, student tours, financial aid workshops, and expanded CTE Dual Credit Articulation agreements, WWCC has empowered high school students to explore future pathways and earn college credit early. Their partnership is helping to bridge the transition from high school to higher education and career training — providing students with the tools, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Columbia REA
A leader in sustainable innovation, Columbia REA has played a vital role in supporting the district’s clean energy initiatives — particularly in the electrification of our school bus fleet. Their contributions have included laying essential infrastructure, donating transformers, and covering the cost of electricity up to the meter.
Even as the district added 15 new electric buses, Columbia REA stepped in once again to ensure we had the power needed to operate effectively — reinforcing their commitment to a cleaner, greener future for our students and community.
Walla Walla-Columbia School Retirees Association
The legacy of service continues through the Walla Walla-Columbia School Retirees Association. Comprised of former educators and school staff, this dedicated group continues to enrich our district through mentorship, volunteerism, scholarships, mini-grants, and advocacy.
Their many contributions include organizing retirement seminars, delivering goody bags to staff, and championing education-related policies across the state. Their dedication remains unwavering — a testament to the lifelong impact of educators.
2024–25 Officers:
President: Sue DeRuwe
President-Elect: Roseann Groom
Secretary: Kathy Pritcher
Treasurer: Jim Briggs
Past President: Kathy Pritcher
Thank you Walla Walla Public Schools 2025 Partners of the Year!
Your support helps ensure that every student in Walla Walla Public Schools is empowered to thrive — today and into the future. Walla Walla Public Schools is deeply grateful for your partnership.
