NTPS paraeducator named Regional Classified Employee of the Year 

Tom Harn, a paraeducator from South Bay Elementary School at North Thurston Public Schools, was named the 2026 Educational Service District (ESD) 113 Regional Classified School Employee of the Year.  

The award stems from a two-step process that recognizes Regional Classified Employees of the Year from each ESD in the state.

ESD 113 said in a news release that Harn helps the school’s Sunshine Committee, a committee formed for staff well-being that is designed to improve school climate.  

Harn also plans staff appreciation events and hand-delivers each staff member’s favorite snack every Wednesday during the school year.

“The difference Tom makes at South Bay is tangible,” said ESD 113 Superintendent Dr. Flip Herndon in a statement. “The staff love him, the students love him. It takes a special educator to go above and beyond on such personal levels.” 

Harn’s actions also extended to the school’s 560 students, knowing every student by name and interest, and using the knowledge to assist them at school.  

Harn provides support for the school’s Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports systems, and his work has contributed to a 30 percent reduction in discipline referrals since 2023. 

The district said Harn has become one of the staff members that parents connect with most, even extending his help to build an accessible deck with a lift for the boys when he learned they were struggling with the step ladder into their swimming pool. 

“Mr. Harn regularly goes out of his way to attend outside-of-school events and support the broader school community,” said South Bay parent Tristan Hay in a statement. “He is a constant, positive presence, not just for my children, but for every child at South Bay Elementary.” 

The Regional Classified School Employee of the Year qualifies Harn for the Washington State Classified Employee of the Year honor.

The winner will be the the state's nominee for the U.S. Department of Education's Recognizing Inspiring School Employees award.