Nidia Sahagun, the family engagement coordinator at Vashon Island School District (VISD), graciously accepted the Doors of Opportunity Award, honoring her dedication to supporting some of the District’s most vulnerable families as they navigate the public school system.

“As Family Engagement Coordinator, I serve as a bridge between students, families, staff, and the community - honoring cultures, building trust, supporting connections, and ensuring that every voice is heard, so that every child can thrive,” said Sahagun. “It is a true honor to be recognized by people I admire and respect so deeply. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank everyone for this recognition.”

Sahagun joined the District in 2021, taking on a newly created role designed to simultaneously support families and learn from families, their strengths and what they bring to the table; developing strategies to realize dreams that honor family wisdom, values, and power, actively engaging and promoting co-leadership in decisions that impact them. Under the steady presence of Sahagun, the job has become one of the heartbeats of the District.

“Nidia is visible in our schools and the community, building trusting, productive relationships with families,” said VISD Director of Teaching and Learning Dr. Stephanie Spencer. “Wherever she sees a need, she is there to help facilitate a powerful response with our families, students, and staff that leads to improved experiences and enhanced systems.”

Many of the nomination responses from the community reflected the tremendous and often unseen impact Sahagun makes on the District and families every school day. She was referred to as the “District MVP”, someone who “serves the families of Vashon with intention, skill, and empathy,” and someone who “is always there for the students and staff, is knowledgeable, caring, and ensures every student, parent, and staff feels seen and encouraged.”

The Doors of Opportunity Award was created and endowed by Benita and Charlie Staadecker in 1998 as an annual award to honor a VISD teacher or staff member who best exemplifies someone who goes beyond their job description to open doors and maximize students’ potential. Charlie Staadecker served for many years on the District’s Board of Directors.

Previous award recipients have been Roxanne Thayer, Mike Kirk, Doug Kloke, Renae Taylor, Jim Dorsey, Martha Woodard, Cornelius Lopez, Cherry Champagne, Shirley Ferris, Mike Scott, Julie Jaffe, Gail Labinski, Harris Levinson, Lance Morgan, Mary Heath, Geri Wilson, Char Phillips, Larry Dubois, Esther Morrison, Yvette Butler,  Dr. Stephen Floyd, Jenny Granum, Lisa Cyra, Sarah Day, Lisa Miller, Nan Hammett, and Margie Butcher.