ISD Board Recognized as ‘2025 Board of Distinction’

The Issaquah School Board has been recognized by the Washington State School Directors Association (WSSDA) as a 2025 Board of Distinction. 

The ISD School Board has received this award for 17 consecutive years – every year since the award program began. Additionally, the Issaquah School Board was recognized as a School Board of the Year by WSSDA in both 2015 and 2017.  

“Our School Board’s consistent recognition as a Board of Distinction reflects their deep commitment to student outcomes, equity and thoughtful governance,” Superintendent Heather Tow-Yick said. “Their leadership ensures that every decision is focused on what’s best for kids and aligned with our shared vision for student success.” 

The awards recognize school boards that have demonstrated effective governance aligned with the Washington School Board Standards and show evidence of improving student outcomes. 

Since its inception, the Boards of Distinction program has emphasized rigorous criteria, including narrowing opportunity gaps, aligning board actions with student-success initiatives, and distinguishing board efforts from staff operations. 

“To become a Board of Distinction, you have to provide clear, evidence-based demonstrations of improved student outcomes tied to board action,” said Dr. Heather Curl, WSSDA’s director of leadership development. 

The Issaquah School Board is comprised of Board President and District 2 Representative Marnie Maraldo, Legislative and District 1 Representative A.J. Taylor, District 3 Representative Harlan Gallinger, District 4 Representative Sydne Mullings and District 5 Representative Matt Coyne. Learn more about the board on our website.