Jemtegaard Middle School’s David Cooke named Principal of the Year

WASHOUGAL — Jemtegaard Middle School Principal David Cooke was named Washington State Secondary School Principal of the Year by the Association of Washington School Principals. The award is given to “individuals who set high standards for instruction, student achievement and community involvement, as well as advocating for education,” according to a news release. “Under David’s leadership, Jemtegaard Middle School has gone from a school that was failing to make progress under No Child Left Behind to one that has been state recognized multiple times for academic performance increases and closing the achievement gap,” Superintendent Mary Templeton said. Cooke has overseen implementation of Positive Behavior Intervention Support system at Jemtegaard, leading to a reduction in missed instructional time and fewer discipline referrals for students. He also started a Spanish Speaking Family Night in response to feedback from Spanish-speaking families. “I am honored to be the principal of Jemtegaard Middle School,” Cooke said. “It is an incredible place to work. This award represents the culture and efforts of the staff and students who come here every day.”