Celebrating the RSD Classified Employee of the Year

Richland School District is proud to announce that Sarah Templeton, Dispatcher/Router in our Transportation Department, has been named the Richland School District Classified Employee of the Year!

As the district honoree, Sarah’s name will now be submitted to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) for consideration as Washington State’s Classified Employee of the Year. This recognition reflects her outstanding dedication and the significant impact she has on students, families, and colleagues across our district.

Sarah plays a critical role in coordinating McKinney-Vento transportation services, ensuring students experiencing homelessness have safe and reliable transportation to and from school. Her work helps remove barriers to education and protects school stability for some of our most vulnerable learners.

Kyle Carrier, Director of Transportation, shared:

“Sarah’s ability to make things happen is incredible. She works collaboratively with neighboring districts to ensure students living outside our boundaries can get to school safely and consistently. She steps up to cover routes when we are short-staffed, supports her colleagues, and serves as an OSPI-certified Driver Trainer to ensure our team is well-prepared in state, federal, and local regulations. Her work ethic and commitment to students truly set her apart.”

Derek O’Konek, Executive Director of State and Federal Programs, added:

“Sarah has done an excellent job coordinating transportation services for students experiencing homelessness. She proactively communicates with families, school staff, and transportation providers to arrange services in a timely manner, often resolving complex situations under tight timelines. Her ability to respond quickly ensures immediate enrollment and school stability for vulnerable students, directly supporting student attendance and academic continuity.”

In addition to her technical expertise, Sarah is known for being welcoming, dependable, and deeply committed to student success. While much of her work happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt across the district every single day.

Please join us in congratulating Sarah and thanking her for the tremendous work she does on behalf of our students and community.