Each year, the nonprofit Identity Clark County honors staff members and volunteers from across Southwest Washington for their contributions to the region's schools, colleges and universities. This year's honorees from Battle Ground are Rebecca Olson, a counselor at Daybreak Middle School, and Brook Trang, executive director at ReadNW. Both have contributed to student learning and well-being.
About Brook
Brook Trang and Read NW are champions for early childhood literacy. The organization pairs volunteers with students at Clark County primary and elementary schools, including several in Battle Ground, to read books together regularly. These positive connections help students grow their reading skills, which are linked to academic success, and demonstrate to the students that caring adults are invested in their learning. This year, ReadNW also partnered with the Battle Ground Education Foundation to hold a literacy event called Bites & Books for first graders and their families. Each student received a free book and bookmark with information about ways to continue reading at home. Book by book and student by student, Brook and the Read NW team and volunteers are changing the trajectory for students all over Southwest Washington.
About Rebecca
Counselor Rebecca Olson, M.Ed., exemplifies the profound impact of school counseling on student success and well-being. From teaching positive character traits to supporting students and staff members during difficult times, Rebecca plays a vital role in preparing students for life after graduation. Recently, she presented information to middle schoolers from around the district during a conference focused on student wellness. A former middle school track coach and member of the district’s Citizens Advisory Committee, Rebecca’s influence extends beyond her office as she encourages and advocates for students and schools. She exemplifies compassion, leadership and an unwavering dedication to students and the school community.
Congratulations, Rebecca and Brook!
