 Dr. James West | Assistant Principal | Cascade Elementary | Kennewick, WA – Cascade Elementary’s Dr. James West has been recognized as the Washington State 2025 Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year, an honor that reflects his exceptional leadership, commitment to student success, and dedication to fostering a positive school culture. For the past six years, Dr. West has played a pivotal role in transforming Cascade Elementary into a welcoming and student-centered learning environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered. His leadership has driven initiatives to improve schoolwide safety, strengthen student attendance, and implement a robust Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program. |
Beyond his work within the school, Dr. West has been instrumental in building strong partnerships with families, staff, and local organizations. His passion for inclusive education is evident in his advocacy for special education students, as well
as his dedication to coaching teachers and staff to support all learners effectively.
One of Dr. West’s most impactful contributions is his leadership in organizing Wellness Night, an event that unites over 50 community partners to provide essential resources for students and families. His ability to connect and uplift the school
community has earned him widespread admiration.
“Dr. West is more than deserving of this honor. He puts students first, builds meaningful connections with families, and continuously strives to make our school a better place for all,” shared a colleague.
With a deep commitment to creating equitable opportunities and fostering a culture of belonging, Dr. West exemplifies the role of a student-centered administrator. His leadership has left a lasting impact on Cascade Elementary and beyond, making him
a well-deserving recipient of this prestigious award.