A new award honoring community members and organizations who go above and beyond in supporting Kalama School District students, families and staff was bestowed to Kalama Police Chief Ralph Herrera during Monday night’s Kalama School Board meeting.
Presenting Herrera with the first ever Kalama Family Award, KSD Superintendent Dr. Wesley Benjamin praised the police chief for his responsiveness, constant care, and steadfast advocacy for keeping students safe.
"Chief Herrera has been an unwavering pillar of support for our schools," said Benjamin. "Whether in incident response or working proactively with the district to address concerns, Ralph has always been there for our students and staff. His genuine care for this community helps to create an environment where everyone feels safe and supported. We are truly fortunate to have him as part of our Kalama family."
The newly established Kalama Family Award promises to continue recognizing those in the community who strengthen the bonds that make our schools such a special place.
A night of recognitions
Herrera wasn’t the only person honored during the board meeting on Monday night. Kalama High School sophomore Shade Garrido was named KSD Student of the Month in recognition of his academic excellence and positive impact on the school community.
“Shade is such a hard worker!” wrote one of Garrido’s former teachers, in nominating the 10th grader for Student of the Month. “His grades are excellent and although I don't currently have him in class, he is always so kind and polite when I see him. He always greets me with a respectful 'hello,' and continues to show exemplary academic habits.”
Also receiving recognition on Monday night was Kalama Elementary School teacher Katy Pietsch, who was named School Employee of the Year by the Kalama Chamber of Commerce over the summer.
The Chamber presented its award to Pietsch during a banquet on Tuesday, July 16.
