Discover Clark County: Learn Here
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Investing in our future
Support education or upskill yourself through our highly regarded educational system in Clark County.
Click on interactive map points to learn more, click on regions for information on each district.
Class of 2026 Learn Here Honorees. Photo courtesy of Identity Clark County.
Investing in our future
Support education or upskill yourself through our highly regarded educational system in Clark County.
Click on interactive map points to learn more, click on regions for information on each district.
Class of 2026 Learn Here Honorees. Photo courtesy of Identity Clark County.
2026 Learn Here Heroes
Business leaders across Clark County appreciate our quality educational system. It is the foundation of vibrant communities where people want to live and employers want to operate.
Each honoree is deserving of our appreciation because their efforts foster a supportive culture and inspire others, even though none seek recognition for what they do.
The extra commitment of staff and volunteers is why we have such a great educational system today. They are the ones who champion modern facilities, innovative programs, and a diverse range of student support programs that make it possible for each student to thrive.
2026 Learn Here Honorees Flyer
Legacy Award
Jon Girod is a dedicated leader in advancing career pathways in the skilled trades, working tirelessly to connect students with meaningful learning opportunities and future employment. Through strong partnerships with local schools, he has helped build bridges that support students from early exposure to career readiness. His vision and leadership have led to impactful initiatives, including the creation of a hands-on toolbox project for elementary students and the development of skilled trades centers across several high school campuses throughout the county. Jon is a passionate and unwavering advocate for young people, their futures, and the building industry, continually working to expand access, inspire interest and create pathways to success.
Battle Ground Public Schools
Counselor Rebecca Olson, M.Ed., exemplifies the profound impact of school counseling on student success and well-being. She supports students and staff through challenges while promoting positive character development and helping students prepare for life beyond graduation. Recently, she presented to middle school students across the district at a conference focused on student wellness. A former middle school track coach and member of the district’s Citizens Advisory Committee, Rebecca extends her influence beyond the counseling office through active advocacy and community engagement. She is widely recognized for her compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive school environment for all students.
Brook Trang and Read Northwest are being recognized for extraordinary leadership and an unwavering commitment to childhood literacy across Southwest Washington.
Under Brook Trang’s visionary leadership, Read Northwest has become a powerful force for change, connecting dedicated community volunteers with young students in primary and elementary schools throughout Clark County, including several schools within the Battle Ground Public Schools. Through these meaningful one-on-one reading partnerships, students strengthen their literacy skills while building lasting relationships with caring adults who inspire confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Brook’s vision extends beyond traditional reading support by creating innovative programs that connect literacy to families, the arts, and the broader community. In partnership with the Battle Ground Education Foundation, Read Northwest hosted “Bites & Books,” where first graders and their families enjoyed a fun breakfast, received free books, and took home resources to encourage reading together. Through the Arts and Literacy Experience, developed with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA, students in kindergarten through fifth grade read music-themed books and then see those stories brought to life by a live brass quartet performing at their schools. Students and their families also receive complimentary tickets to Vancouver Symphony Orchestra concerts, extending the experience beyond the classroom and into the community.
Read Northwest also partners with Dozer Days to share the book Dozer Day Paves the Way with every first grader in all current Read Northwest schools. A surprise visit from Dozer Dan and complimentary tickets to Dozer Days help students see that reading can connect them to exciting opportunities right in their own community.
Through Brook’s leadership and the dedication of the Read Northwest team, young readers are gaining the skills, confidence, and inspiration they need to succeed. Read Northwest is changing the trajectory for children throughout our region—one student, one book, and one meaningful connection at a time.
Camas School District
As a cornerstone of the Camas School District, Shauna Ruse exemplifies dedicated leadership and advocacy for student success. Serving as Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and School Board, her influence extends well beyond her role. She is President of the Camas Educational Foundation, a member of the Superintendent’s Budget Committee, and co-lead of the Student Advisory Committee—consistently investing her time to expand opportunities for students.
With experience spanning from Dorothy Fox Elementary to the district’s Central Office, Shauna is widely respected for her expertise and collaborative approach. Her background in corporate operations and construction management strengthens complex planning efforts, while her sharp problem-solving and steady leadership keep the district focused and effective. Above all, her work is grounded in an unwavering commitment to the students of Camas.
Following limited PTO engagement after the COVID pandemic, Heidi Buhman-McNeley has revitalized the school community at Liberty Middle School. Despite working full-time and raising three students across Camas schools, she has dedicated significant time and energy to rebuilding the PTO—successfully recruiting a full leadership team and establishing a strong volunteer base. Under her leadership, the PTO now supports a wide range of initiatives, including the Liberty Pride Mart student store, fundraising through athletic event concessions, school-wide fundraisers and dine-arounds, spirit wear sales and staff appreciation events. She also helped revamp the school mascot and is supporting an 8th grade promotion ceremony. Heidi’s leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment have restored connection, school spirit, and meaningful support for students, staff, and families at Liberty.
Clark College / Clark College Foundation
Professor Earl Frederick serves as a Tenured Professor and Department Chair of the Cuisine Management program at Clark College’s Tod & Maxine McClaskey Culinary Institute, the region’s only certified, degree-granting culinary program. Under his leadership, graduates are highly sought after by top restaurants, hotels, and resorts nationwide, and students were recently selected to provide refreshments at Governor Ferguson’s inaugural ball. A co-founder of The Portland Kitchen, Chef Earl is deeply engaged in the community and serves on the boards of the Vancouver Farmers Market and Stone Soup PDX. With nearly three decades of experience and credentials from Johnson & Wales University and beyond, he brings expertise from roles with Walt Disney World, Nike, Intel, and more—while remaining committed to mentorship and service.
Sharif Burdzik is a dedicated community leader, mentor, and advocate whose impact across Clark County’s educational landscape spans more than two decades, starting with fifteen years of service on the board of the Cascadia Tech Foundation. He has served on more than 20 nonprofit boards and advisory committees, consistently advancing student success through collaboration and service. His longstanding involvement with the Clark College Foundation beginning in 2010 reflects both his generosity as a donor and his commitment to expanding access to education, particularly for veterans and scholarship recipients. As Chair of the Veterans Advisory Board for Clark College’s Veterans Center of Excellence and a Foundation board member chairing the Development Committee, Sharif has strengthened partnerships and community engagement. With his recent move to Director of Development & Partnership Giving for the Clark College Foundation, his leadership, grounded in authenticity and purpose, continues to create meaningful opportunities and lasting impact across the region.
Evergreen Public Schools
Tricia Harding is a dedicated leader advancing equitable access for multilingual families through her role as Language Access Coordinator. She brings strategic vision and deep care to her work, ensuring students and families feel seen, supported, and able to fully engage in critical educational experiences. Tricia has led comprehensive efforts to improve communication across key milestones, including forecasting, High School & Beyond planning, and family engagement events, while partnering across departments to close access gaps. She also guides implementation of the district’s Language Access Plan, developing practical tools and strengthening school-based practices. Through her leadership, including the creation of an in-house linguist training program, Tricia is building sustainable systems that expand access, strengthen relationships, and foster a more inclusive, connected school community.
Jamie Helm is a dedicated volunteer and middle school teacher who supports the district’s attendance efforts by participating twice monthly in Community Engagement Boards (CEBs), where she works with students and families facing attendance challenges. In these sessions, she helps navigate complex situations, identify barriers, and recommend meaningful interventions to improve student engagement. Many of the students served are in need of additional support. Jamie’s calm, compassionate approach helps foster trust and productive conversations. She has also brought this model back to Shahala Middle School, expanding its impact within her school community. Though entirely voluntary, Jamie’s contributions have made a significant difference in strengthening connections and improving outcomes for students and families.
Firm Foundation Christian School
Sherina Sours is an exceptional teacher who is a positive role model in and out of the classroom. She is a phenomenal basketball coach who encourages all students and players to give it their all. In addition, she is actively involved as a leader in her church. She is humble and gracious, and a blessing to everyone around her.
Jennifer Duke has always been someone who is willing to go above and beyond in volunteering in whatever task she has embraced. She has been a tremendous help in the clothing closet, classroom and in the other areas as well. She comes in everyday with a smile and radiates the love of Jesus not only to the students but the staff as well.
Hockinson School District
Tasha Hill is a school-based Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who supports students, staff, and families across the district through proactive, preventative approaches to behavior. She works collaboratively to reduce disruptions to learning while strengthening students’ social and emotional skills. With deep expertise in behavior analysis, including understanding antecedents and the escalation cycle, Tasha designs thoughtful strategies that lead to meaningful, positive change. She partners closely with educators and families to create supportive, consistent environments where students can succeed. Known for her kindness and uplifting spirit, Tasha not only finds joy in her work but helps others—students and adults alike—experience greater confidence, connection, and success each day.
Derek Huegel volunteered to be the project manager of Hockinson High School's new Skilled Trades Center. He has applied his expertise as a homebuilder to coordinate every aspect of this project - from permitting, to design, to materials, to construction. Derek has a perfect blend of skills for this role: He's organized, reliable and good-humored.
Ridgefield School District
Stephanie Goad has been a transformative leader since joining the Ridgefield School District in 2018 as the inaugural Assistant Principal for Sunset Intermediate and View Ridge Middle Schools. With a diverse background spanning preschool, special education, general education, and reading intervention, she brings a comprehensive understanding of student needs and instructional practice. Stephanie is known for her strong work ethic and steady leadership, ensuring smooth school operations while remaining deeply student-centered. She also serves on the Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation Board, advocating for resources that support students and staff. A trusted leader and collaborator, Stephanie is recognized for her integrity, empathy, and unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive learning environment.
Detective Tyler King has become a trusted partner in supporting safety and connection within the Ridgefield School District since joining the Ridgefield Police Department in 2017. Known for his collaborative approach, he works closely with district staff to strengthen emergency preparedness, provide training and coordinate large-scale safety efforts, including a countywide reunification exercise involving multiple agencies. Beyond system-level leadership, Detective King is deeply engaged with students, volunteering in classrooms and through the Police Activities League of Southwest Washington to build positive relationships and mentorship opportunities. His commitment to fostering trust, supporting families and strengthening community partnerships has made a lasting impact, helping ensure schools remain safe, supportive environments where students can thrive.
Vancouver Public Schools
Erick Hoffarth is an exceptional leader whose commitment to transparency, safety, and community well-being has made a meaningful impact on his school community. He approaches challenges with resilience and a clear focus on accountability, ensuring that decisions consistently support both students and staff. Grounded in a belief in developing the “whole child,” Erick fosters an environment where academic success, personal growth and well-being are equally valued. Leading with a servant’s heart, he has built strong trust among staff, students, and stakeholders, creating a culture of collaboration and excellence at JTC. His steady leadership, integrity, and dedication to supporting every student make him a highly deserving candidate for this recognition.
Diana Avalos-Leos, founder and Executive Director of Latino Leadership Northwest, is a dedicated community advocate and leader. She supports students and families in building resilience through a strong sense of belonging so youth can learn, grow and lead.
Washington School for the Deaf
Ami Justice, Lead Cook, is a dedicated and compassionate member of the school community who consistently goes above and beyond to support students and staff. She knows students by name—including those who don’t regularly come through the lunch line—remembers their preferences, and works tirelessly to ensure every student is safely fed and satisfied. Behind the scenes, Ami keeps meal preparation running smoothly, often ahead of schedule, while making sure her team has the support needed for successful service. Her attention to detail, reliability, and care create a welcoming and efficient environment. Beyond her role, Ami takes time to check in with colleagues, demonstrating genuine kindness and a deep commitment to those around her.
Carole Kaulitz brings more than 50 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist, Deaf/Hard of Hearing Education Specialist, and Autism/Behavior Consultant, demonstrating a deep and sustained commitment to supporting students and educators. She has dedicated countless hours to the Washington School for the Deaf, contributing in a variety of meaningful ways, including providing staff training, serving as board secretary for the nonprofit that supports the school, and actively participating in fundraising efforts. Carole also attends Washington School for the Deaf graduations, where she presents scholarships to students, further investing in their future success. Always seeking new ways to contribute, she consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and staff. Her unwavering dedication, generosity, and passion have made a lasting and meaningful impact on the school community.
Washington State School for the Blind
Billie Jo Thomas is an invaluable member of the Washington State School for the Blind community, known for her deep commitment to supporting both students and colleagues. As a School Psychologist and Counselor, she plays a critical role in fostering a positive, inclusive school culture that supports the whole child. She coordinates social-emotional assessments to better understand student needs and guides High School and Beyond planning to help students prepare for their futures. Billie Jo also conducts evaluations for special education eligibility and related services, ensuring students receive appropriate support. In addition, she develops behavior interventions and leads data collection efforts to monitor progress and refine strategies. Her ability to collaborate across teams strengthens communication and coordination, making a lasting impact on students and the broader school community.
Since 2008, Ole Helgerson has been a dedicated volunteer at the Washington State School for the Blind, making a lasting impact through his expertise, generosity, and commitment to student safety. As Safety Captain for the tandem cycling program, he developed safety protocols, mapped safe community routes, and assists maintaining the tandem fleet, keeping the bikes road ready. He also coined the program’s motto, “Ride Safe, Have Fun.” Ole supports downhill and cross-country ski programs, teaches students, and updates safety guidelines. Beyond athletics, he repairs white canes and low-vision monoculars, saving the school significant costs, and volunteers at numerous school events. His humility, positivity, and unwavering dedication have made him an invaluable part of the school community.
Washougal School District
Kenneth Kulk is a dedicated teacher in the Washougal Adult Transitions Program, where he supports students with disabilities ages 18–22 in developing the skills needed for independence and long-term success. He actively builds partnerships with local businesses and organizations to create meaningful work opportunities that help students gain real-world employment experience. Under Kenneth’s leadership, the program emphasizes improved student outcomes through a strong focus on self-advocacy and empowerment. He guides students in building essential life skills, including daily living, budgeting, and cooking, ensuring they are prepared for life beyond school. His commitment to creating inclusive opportunities and fostering independence has made a lasting impact on students and the broader community.
For the past two years, Brittney Johnson has led the Columbia River Gorge Elementary (CRGE) Boosters with a clear focus on aligning community support with the school’s academic goals. Under her leadership, the group has strengthened its impact by promoting effective fundraising efforts and increasing family engagement in student learning. She has successfully organized initiatives such as a readathon, helping to build connections between families and the school while supporting educational outcomes. Brittney works closely with teachers and school leaders to identify areas where booster support can make the greatest difference, including providing funding to ensure all students have access to snacks and can participate in field trips. Her thoughtful, collaborative leadership has helped create a more inclusive and supportive environment for students and families.
WSU Vancouver
Dr. Gunjan Gakhar exemplifies a Learn Here Hero through her dedication to student success, inclusive teaching, and community-engaged learning. As an Associate Professor of Biological Sciences at Washington State University Vancouver, she transforms rigorous STEM education into accessible, meaningful experiences for diverse students, including first-generation and working learners. She teaches high-impact biology and microbiology courses that serve as gateways to careers in healthcare, research, and biotechnology, maintaining high academic standards while fostering belonging and persistence. Students consistently highlight her approachability, expertise and lasting influence on their decision to remain in STEM fields. Dr. Gakhar also leads the Microbe Lunch Project, a multidisciplinary initiative in partnership with Hudson’s Bay High School, further extending learning beyond the classroom and strengthening community connections.
Mike Bomar exemplifies the spirit of a Learn Here Hero through his leadership, alumni engagement and commitment to connecting education with opportunity. As Chief Economic Strategy Officer for the Port of Vancouver USA, he plays a key role in strengthening the region’s talent pipeline and creating pathways for students into high-impact careers. A graduate of Washington State University Vancouver, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Public Affairs, Mike brings a firsthand understanding of the university's role in serving first-generation, working and place-bound students. His continued advocacy reflects a deep commitment to the university as a critical workforce and research partner, helping ensure students can build meaningful careers while contributing to the region’s economic vitality.
The Learn Here Project is a special project of Identity Clark County, a nonprofit business leaders group that strives to make Clark County an even better place to land, live and learn for a lifetime. The Learn Here Project is made possible by Windermere Northwest Living, the Port of Vancouver USA, iQ Credit Union, and Identity Clark County.