On Tuesday, September 8, HMS was presented with a banner acknowledging the school's selection as a 2026 AWSL/AWSP School on the Rise Winner. Before explaining why HMS qualified for this honor, let's break down what this honor is: AWSL and AWSP are acronyms representing the sponsoring organizations, Association of Washington School Leaders and Association of Washington School Principals, respectively. The School on the Rise Award is given to schools "where students and adults collaborate to improve culture and amplify student voice."

Travis Ruhter, AWSL Associate Director of Education and Engagement, was on site to present HMS Leadership students with the award and read its accompanying citation. View it here. Ruhter said that it was apparent that at HMS, "students are trusted to lead, contribute, and work alongside adults to create a community where everyone can belong." He went on to point out that students at the school have created experiences, traditions, a opportunities that are "inclusive, meaningful, and fun." Finally, he reviewed student survey data that revealed over 90% of HMS students feel safe at school and have someone to sit with at lunch. Over 80% said that they had a trusted adult on campus and over 50% participate in a club or sport.

Superintendent Steve Marshall, Principal Bess Colpron, Dean of Students Ben Nelson, Head/ASB Secretary Janell Morley, and Leadership Teachers Megan Shinn and Mariah Maudlin were also in attendance to celebrate this latest honor alongside its student leaders.

Hockinson Middle School was only one of thirteen schools to be named a 2026 School on the Rise. This is the second time in three years the school has received this one.