Tumwater Middle School is one of just 15 schools in Washington to receive the 2026 "Washington Schools on the Rise" award. The distinction was announced at an all-school assembly on Oct. 30.

The Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL) and the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) give the award jointly. Only 15 schools out of more than 2,500 statewide received it in 2026, according to a feature published by ThurstonTalk. The school enrolls about 625 students in sixth through eighth grades, according to its website.

AWSP and AWSL representatives said at the assembly that Tumwater Middle School achieved its highest overall growth rates in the history of the state's Smarter Balanced Assessment.

Reading proficiency reached its highest levels since the pandemic interruption, the representatives said.

Schoolwide surveys also showed the highest reported levels of belonging, hope and positive relationships in the school's survey history.

How students shaped the change

Each homeroom at Tumwater Middle School selects a representative to collect feedback on what is working, what is confusing and what students want changed.

Jordan Owen, a physical education and leadership teacher, said those reps meet with him every couple of Fridays for problem-solving sessions that bring all grade levels together. The groups look for cost-effective solutions.

Concrete results followed. Students got the basketball courts repainted, a designated area with four-square courts and a new volleyball set. Those additions gave students more options during lunch, when phone use is not allowed.

"Tumwater Middle School demonstrates what happens when we move beyond asking students what they think and actually empower them to lead meaningful change," said James Layman, AWSL director.

Leadership course and a boys soccer push

The school's Introduction to Leadership course accepts students by application. It requires recommendations from two teachers and good grades and attendance. Associated Student Body (ASB) members take the course for a full year. Other students take it for a semester, with some staying for both.

Aubree Phillips, now an eighth grader, has been on the ASB leadership team since the second semester of sixth grade. She plays volleyball and runs track. Phillips heard from classmates that a boys soccer team would matter.

"I know sports are important to many students," Phillips said.

The ASB team researched costs, field availability and logistics, then presented a formal proposal to the district. The proposal's status has not been publicly resolved. The ASB leadership team plans to keep pushing for the program.

District plan alignment

The award aligns with the Tumwater School District 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, a five-year framework developed by students, families, staff and community members. The district's stated promise: "Every student is known by name, strength and need, and is prepared for the future they envision."

Owen said the school has partnered with Envolve for leadership training this year, with a goal of making activities inclusive for students who do not always participate.