Kent School District is proud to announce that three of its exceptional schools — Kent Laboratory Academy, Panther Lake Elementary, and River Ridge Elementary — have been recognized as 2025 Schools on the Rise, an honor awarded to just 42 schools across Washington State. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that are leading the way in creating inclusive, empowering, and student-centered learning environments.
This statewide recognition celebrates schools that are uplifting student voice, building strong school cultures, and making meaningful impacts for all learners — and these three KSD schools are doing just that.
Kent Laboratory Academy (Grades 3–12) is recognized for its innovative approach to education and its deep commitment to treating every student and adult as a learner.
“Kent Lab Academy is innovating for ALL learners in the Kent School District. Students and educators alike celebrate each other's growth and achievement — and everyone, all students and adults, are considered learners. Elevating our students' status as learners alongside educators defines our community and school culture,” said Stephanie Knipp, school Principal.
“Through a partnership with UW Tacoma, we host educator interns throughout the year. Pre-service teachers enrich our students' experience and increase the number of educators supporting our students. At times during the year, we have more interns in the building than classroom teachers! Interns also sharpen the practice of seasoned educators — together we are learning by doing.
Lab schools like ours also research promising practices, pilot, field test, and innovate to benefit students. This year, we were field testing SEL curriculum and our students' feedback and collaboration with educators is transforming instructional tools and materials for the better! Through these processes, student voice is centered in our learning. We also share our practices through conference presentations and opening our school to guest tours. Through these events, our students stand side-by-side with educators to share our learning community and lab culture. We are glad to make our learning visible and share our experiences with other educators and our community.”
Panther Lake Elementary has been recognized for its strong school culture and inclusive approach to education.
“Panther Lake Elementary was a proud recipient of the AWSP Rising Star award for the 24-25 school year. We have worked hard over the past few years to build a culture of belonging! In building that culture we have included student, family, and staff voices,” said Pamela Pogson, principal of Panther Lake.
“We have been more intentional with our instruction and intervention which impacted student learning, raising our scores above the state line. Our staff deeply care and connect with each other and students. We are proud to continue that work in the 25-26 school year.”
River Ridge Elementary also earned recognition for its outstanding commitment to equity, student voice, and academic growth. The school continues to shine as a model for inclusive education in the Kent School District.
Let’s give a round of applause to the students, staff, and families making it happen every day. You’re truly rising to the occasion.