College Place Public Schools is proud to recognize two major honors announced during the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce Community Excellence Awards held at Baker Boyer Bank on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
Sager Middle School English teacher Erica Lackey has been named Educator of the Year. Her nomination highlights the heart of her work, noting that “Erica puts her students first over her own needs and struggles in life” and that she “is not just a teacher. She is a creator, mentor, and guide to our future leaders of our community.”
In receiving the award, Erica expressed gratitude for the team that surrounds her, sharing, “I want to thank our staff at Sager Middle School. This is not a solo act by any means. You supported me through all my crazy projects and fundraisers and all the things I’ve come up with to do.”
CPPS also recognizes Davis Elementary teacher and former Migrant Program Coordinator Anna Inman for her nomination for Educator of the Year. Anna works tirelessly to support her students and the greater community and is a true asset to College Place Schools.
Sager Middle School has been awarded the Duane Wollmuth Catalyst Award. The nomination describes Sager as a school that “has long served as the heart of the College Place School District, shaping generations of learners and leaders.” It also highlights the school’s clear expectations of Raiders ROCK and its focus on Relationships, Academic Excellence, and Growth Mindsets, along with strong student performance.”
Accepting the award on behalf of Sager Middle School staff, Principal Chris Plucker shared, “I am absolutely humbled and honored to represent this group of educators you’ve chosen and recognized as a catalyst for change for middle schoolers.”
Superintendent Jim Fry celebrated the accomplishments of all honorees. “Our vision reminds us that we can produce larger than life outcomes for kids and tonight we saw that on full display. Erica’s recognition, Anna’s nomination, and Sager Middle School’s Catalyst Award all reflect a district where people believe in our students and work together to create exceptional experiences for them. I could not be more proud of what our staff continues to accomplish.”