Samuel Paredes was honored in the Community Recognition Awards presented by the Washington Association of School Administrators this month. Samuel was named the outstanding individual from among nominees from 15 school districts in the Puget Sound Metro Region.

Samuel is a former administrator in the public education system of El Salvador. For the past two years, Samuel has served Latino families as the Family Advocate/Academic Coach at Midway Elementary School. As a result of his work with Latino third and fifth graders, students’ test scores have increased, their attendance has improved, and they have had fewer disciplinary referrals. Thanks to Samuel’s work with the children’s families, their parents have become more involved in their children’s education.

Samuel has also taken a lead role in the district’s Latino Family Academy, or Academia de Padres. Families attend all-day sessions on Saturdays. Parents learn about the American education system and how to support their children in school; students over age 10 get a college-awareness curriculum; and childcare is provided for younger children. Graduates of the Academy have become active parent volunteers in their schools.

The programs led by Samuel align closely with the district’s emphasis on academic success and college-readiness for all students. Samuel’s expertise in education, his dedication to students and parents, and his understanding of the barriers facing Latino families has made him an invaluable resource to Highline and its families.

Pictured: Samuel Paredes with Highline’s Family and Community Partnership Manager Jackie Martinez (left) and Community Engagement Specialist Fa’izah Bradford (right) who coordinate the Academia de Padres.