News Release

Everett Public Schools

March 19, 2009

For more information:

Mary Waggoner, 425-385-4049

Interim Superintendent Karst Brandsma honored by WIAA

Earlier this month, the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) honored Everett Public Schools' Interim

Superintendent, Karst Brandsma, with the Gareth Giles Memorial Recognition Award. The honor, given annually in the name

of Gareth Giles, recognizes school leaders who exemplify the characteristics of Giles. Giles was a highly -respected

Washington school administrator who advocated tirelessly on behalf of student involvement in activities and athletics. Mr. Giles

recognized the academic, social, emotional and physical benefits students get from activities and athletic endeavors, noted the

district's Athletic Director Robert Polk who nominated Brandsma.

In his letter of nomination, Polk said, "Karst has spent his career in education supporting students and their endeavors in

interscholastic activities and athletics. He, like Mr. Giles, understands the power those activities have in developing healthy

and successful future leaders."

"Karst understands the connection between success on the field and success in the classroom, and he promotes this

consistently," continued Polk. "He maintains his connection with students and coaches by being a regular at Friday night

football games or meeting with middle school athletes at a practice. Karst has dedicated his career to student success on and

off the field or court."

Upon graduation from college, Brandsma began his career in teaching and coaching and soon became the athletic and

activities director at Peninsula High School. He later became the district athletic director for Tacoma Public Schools where one

of his most significant accomplishments was reinstating middle school sports. After serving as Everett's deputy superintendent,

overseeing district academic programs, Brandsma was chosen by the school board in 2008 to serve as interim superintendent,

a position he will hold until June 30.

"This award means a great deal to me," said Brandsma. "The programs that schools provide for students in the classroom, on

the courts and fields and through social interactions, ensures that we meet the needs of the ‘whole' child."

everett

Page 1 of 1

http://www.everett.k12.wa.us/everett/3.19.09a

6/19/2009