The Kent School District is celebrating a major milestone as Kent Laboratory Academy (KLA) is recognized by University of Washington Tacoma with its Distinguished PK–12 Award.
The honor highlights Kent Laboratory's strong partnership with UW Tacoma and its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and student success across grade levels.
Students and staff gathered for a schoolwide celebration assembly, where elementary, middle, and high school students came together to mark the achievement. The event featured remarks from school and university leaders, student speakers, and activities designed to celebrate the entire school community.
Principal Stephanie Knipp emphasized the importance of the partnership and the recognition.
“We have an amazing opportunity to celebrate with the University of Washington Tacoma, our partner, and today we are celebrating that partnership,” Knipp said. “They are awarding us with a distinguished PK–12 award, and we are just going to have so much fun celebrating together.”
The award was presented by Dr. Rachel Endo, dean of UW Tacoma’s School of Education, who highlighted the significance of the collaboration between the university and Kent Laboratory Academy.
“So this is an event to celebrate KLA,” said Endo. “They’re one of our most important school partners, so we will be giving them the distinguished school partner award today, and we are celebrating with all the Griffins, just to make it a schoolwide celebration.”
Endo also expressed gratitude for the broader community that supports the partnership.
“We just really thank all the KLA community and also the Kent School District for making this partnership possible,” she said. “We’re really honored to be part of this community.”
The celebration included a structured assembly bringing together students from all grade levels, along with speakers, interactive activities, and recognition moments that reinforced Kent Lab’s core values and sense of community.
District leaders say the award reflects not only academic excellence, but also the strength of partnerships that enhance opportunities for students.
Kent School District congratulates Kent Laboratory Academy students, staff, and families on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to continued collaboration with UW Tacoma to support student learning and success.