Highline School District Superintendent John Welch is the recipient of the Robert J. Handy Most Effective Administrator Award in the large-size school district category.

Jim Menzies of the PEMCO (Insurance) Foundation and Washington Association of School Administrators Executive Director Paul Rosier presented the award at a superintendent workshop in Chelan.

"I feel very honored to be both nominated by my colleagues in Highline and then to be recognized by my peers," Welch said. "The award is one I share with the team in Highline who are working really hard to improve our system in order to make the dream of preparing all students for college and career a reality. While I am the one being recognized, I know that this has happened because those who work beside me believe in what we are doing and that the students in Highline deserve the very best we can provide."

In his fifth year at Highline, Welch is credited with developing a district vision through which Highline remains "laser-focused on preparing every student for college, career and citizenship." He is recognized for "creating a culture of accountability for student learning" and for inspiring staff throughout the district to work toward this common vision.