TACOMA, Wash. – Superintendent Josh Garcia and Deputy Superintendent Lisa Nolan of Tacoma Public Schools, were presented with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award, by Ohad Lowy, south sound area co-chair, and Kate Lowy, employer outreach coordinator for the Washington ESGR, in recognition of extraordinary support they provide for their employees who serve in the Reserve Components. The awards were presented at the weekly Central Administration Building Staff meeting which was attended by over 150 staff members. The award presentation was started off by Silas High School Principal Bernadette Ray, a prior Patriot Award recipient.
Garcia and Nolan were nominated by Army Reserve Sgt. Duong Huynh, a behavorial inteevention specialist at Silas High School. “Josh and Lisa have established and maintained a culture of support within the district by supporting those who serve,” said Huynh. “The District has various leave options that ensure employment with Tacoma Public Schools. Their continued support show that they care and allow service members, such as myself, to continue to do what we love – serving our Country and our community.”
“The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees who have answered their nation’s call to serve,” said Ohad Lowy. “National Guard and Reserve members bring tremendous skills and capabilities to our workforce, and supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units.”
“It’s an enormous honor to accept this award on behalf of our District with Lisa,” said Garcia. “The level of support we are able to provide to our staff who serve actively in the military is accomplished through various staff in the district. Lisa and I are humbled to receive this award on behalf of the team. We honor the sacrifices that our military staff and their families have made in service to this country.”
ESGR is a Department of Defense office that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. This year, ESGR celebrates 50 years of excellence in support of the Reserve Components and their civilian employers. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil/WA.
Pictured (L-R) Silas High Schhol Principal Bernadette Ray (prior Patriot Award recipient), Superintendent Josh Garcia, Ohad Lowy - ESGR, Army Reserve Sgt. Duong Huynh, Deputy Superintendent Lisa Nolan.