Congratulations to Mohamed El-Sokkary (Mr. Mo), Family Liaison at Garfield and Lincoln Elementary Schools, who was named the 2025 Olympia School District Classified School Employee of the Year (CSEY).
El-Sokkary learned of this honor during a surprise announcement at Lincoln Elementary's weekly school assembly. Superintendent Patrick Murphy shared the news, which was greeted with applause, cheering, and hugs by the students, staff, and families in attendance.
Over his 19 years of employment, El-Sokkary has held numerous positions throughout our district. He has served as a Paraeducator, Teacher and Family Liaison. His experience includes working at Avanti High School, Jefferson Middle School, Olympia High School and Student Support.
Garfield Elementary School Principal Brendon Chertok had this to say about El-Sokkary; "His work has given voice to those who have historically been underrepresented in our system and community. Because of his dedication to removing barriers and creating access points for students and families, our community is stronger and better able to respond to critical issues that arise in our work."
El-Sokkary will be honored at a school board recognition ceremony on January 9, 2025. The recognition occurs before the regularly scheduled board meeting at 6:10 p.m. at the Knox Administrative Center, 111 Bethel St. N.E. in Olympia.
Classified School Employee of the Year is an annual statewide awards program through the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. It begins with local nominations from school districts throughout Washington. Those individuals then have a chance of being named a Regional Classified School Employee of the Year, which allows them to advance to the state competition.
The annual award recognizes employees who have made a positive difference in their profession. A screening committee of OSD employees reviewed the nominations before selecting the honorees.
The State Superintendent of Public Instruction recognizes the regional finalists and announces the state Classified School Employee of the Year at an annual spring award ceremony.