All-Star Awards to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes

This year, Seattle Public Schools launched the All-Star Awards to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes who bring joy, energy, and heart to our school communities. Among the many categories, one stood out for its sheer enthusiasm: the Most Spirited Educator Award. These are the champions who show up every day with contagious excitement, turning ordinary school days into unforgettable experiences. Let’s meet the 2025 winners who are redefining what it means to bring the spirit! 

Sonya Glaspy, Instructional Assistant – Louisa Boren STEM K-8  

Instructional Assistant by title; superhero by action. From coaching basketball and soccer to reviving the girls’ soccer team, running leadership groups, and crafting unforgettable pep assemblies, Sonya Glaspy is a powerhouse of positivity for students and staff at Louisa Boren STEM K-8.  

Nominations from parents and colleagues poured in for Glaspy, touting their ability to get things done while still finding time to support students.  

“There hasn’t been a student—present or graduated—that has performed in a concert, played a game or had a big life event that Sonya didn’t show up to,” said colleague Heidi Paulson.  
“They go so far above and beyond, it is insane,” added Jennifer Sawade.  

Students, parents, and colleagues alike agree: STEM K-8 wouldn’t be the same without their boundless spirit. 

Billy Deskin, Special Education Teacher – TOPS K-8 

Billy Deskin’s classroom is a haven for inclusivity, positivity, and celebration. Whether it’s students or staff, Billy uplifts everyone at TOPS K-8.  

“His energy is contagious,” colleague Aiko Stanley wrote in her nomination. 

During his eight years at the school, Deskin has become a champion for giving students an environment in which they can thrive. He works hard to create spaces where students feel seen, heard, and valued.  

“The most rewarding part of my job is walking in every day and seeing the successes from the work that my teams and I put in every single day,” Deskin said. “Student academic growth, increased independence, positive social relationships, self-esteem, a sense of self-worth, and best of all, the smiles and feeling of community from the students and families we serve.” 

 
Angela Ferda, Activities Coordinator – West Seattle High School 

As West Seattle High School’s Activities Coordinator, Angela Ferda wears many hats. Whether she’s organizing school dances, movie nights or the annual field day events, Ferda’s energy is unmatched – even after 10 years in the role. 

“I am so thankful I landed in a position that allows me to have fun with my students on a daily basis,” Ferda said. “I love working side-by-side with students as they take a vision for an event or activity and turn it into a reality.” 

Ferda is a jack-of-all-trades, teaching the Leadership class, serving as yearbook advisor, and creating advisory lessons that encourage students to learn more about different cultures and themselves. According to her leadership students, Ferda is a “safe place who is always there to lend a helping hand.”  

“We know she will fight for us, and we will fight for her,” one student shared. 

Deirdre Palmer, Administrative Secretary – Greenwood Elementary 

Affectionately known as “Ms. Meatball” to students, Deirdre Palmer sets the tone for the day at Greenwood Elementary through praise, positivity, and playlists. As students arrive in the morning, Palmer becomes the unofficial DJ, playing a few songs to get the day started. 

Rain or shine, she is outside every morning handing out high-fives and smiles that light up the block.  

In her nine years as the school’s administrative secretary, Palmer has become one of the most trusted staff members for students. She said the most rewarding part of her job has been engaging with her “noodles.” 

“Every day I have the chance to encourage them, support them in overcoming challenges, and help shape how they see their world,” Palmer said. “I am witness to their curiosity, creativity, hard work, AND dance moves!”  

Lauren Kelly, 7th & 8th Grade Science Teacher – Salmon Bay K-8  

No one loves teaching middle school science more than Lauren Kelly. In only her first year in Seattle Public Schools, she’s made a tremendous impact on the students at Salmon Bay K-8.  

In her class, students can expect laughter, fun labs, and a whole lot of learning. In his nomination letter, Zach Smith said, “She makes sure that science isn’t boring. We do a lot of fun labs and when we take tests, she makes sure that we are calm and prepared.” 

With her upbeat attitude, Lauren turns every lesson into an adventure and isn’t afraid to be silly with her students.  

“Getting to see my students take risks and learn important life skills is very rewarding,” she said. “Even more rewarding are the relationships I get to build with my students. Whether students are sharing excitement about a lab, nervousness for an upcoming music performance, or questions they’ve been wondering about the world, I feel lucky to be someone they want to share with!” 

Phi-Ho Le, 3rd & 4th Grade Teacher – Orca K-8 

With 21 years of teaching under his belt, Phi Ho is a pillar of the Orca community. He brings much enthusiasm to his teaching all the while making learning exciting.  

Le accepted his award in front of his class, and students cheered as the All-Star medal was placed around his neck. Le leaves such an impression on students, part of his nomination was written by a sixth grader who had him as a teacher in the third grade. 

“He makes it fun to show up at school. He makes challenges to keep you focused and excited about learning,” the student said in their nomination letter. 

Le loves teaching at Orca and has worked hard to create a community for students by working with teachers, staff, parents, the PTSA and the students. This year, he was the main driver of bringing back a much beloved Orca event that had ended during the pandemic. Le reinvigorated it into “Family Culture Night,” a community event which showcases the students and their work.  

These spirited educators are more than just staff—they are the heart and soul of their schools. They remind us that joy, connection, and community are just as important as academics. 

Congratulations to all our 2025 Most Spirited Educator Award winners! Keep shining, keep smiling, and keep spreading that school spirit!