Hood Canal is celebrating a historic milestone as two of its leaders have been named top award recipients in the state by the Washington Association of School Business Officials (WASBO)—marking the first time both honors have gone to individuals from the same district, and the first time either award has been given to leaders from a small school system.
The recognitions were announced on May 8 during the annual WASBO State Conference in Spokane, a statewide gathering of school business professionals featuring keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and formal recognition of excellence in leadership, operations, and support services.
Hood Canal Director of Finance and Operations Jeanie Beebe was honored as the 2025 WASBO Distinguished School Business Official of the Year, while Superintendent Dr. Lance Gibbon was named the 2025 WASBO Leader of Distinction. These prestigious awards recognize visionary leadership, excellence in school operations, and extraordinary contributions to Washington’s public schools.
“Dr. Gibbon is a stellar leader who has helped shift our culture toward shared values, growth, and service,” said Edie Reclusado, Chair of the Hood Canal School Board. “His vision and encouragement have brought out the best in our team. And Jeanie has been the steady hand guiding our district through change. Her knowledge and calm presence give our board confidence and direction. We are incredibly proud of both of them.”
Honoring Excellence in School Business
Introduced in 2019, the WASBO Distinguished School Business Official of the Year Award honors individuals who exemplify excellence, integrity, and innovation in school business. Jeanie Beebe has served as Hood Canal’s business manager for more than 14 years, guiding the district through major financial decisions and playing a critical role in grants, payroll, budgeting, and levy success. She was also recently elected to the WASBO Board of Directors, where she will support school business professionals across the state.
“Jeanie, your integrity, heart, and commitment have made a lasting impact on Hood Canal and the school business profession,” said WASBO Executive Director Brianne King during the award ceremony. “You are the backbone of your district—leading with compassion and ensuring financial stability for students and staff alike.”
In her acceptance speech, Beebe reflected, “This award isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up and staying the course. Leading even when you're weary. Caring deeply when it would be easier to shut down. And continuing to move forward, even when the work feels overwhelming.”
She added, “I’m fortunate to work under a superintendent who leads with heart and vision. And I’m grateful for a network of colleagues who’ve become a lifeline.”
Recognizing Visionary Leadership
Established in 2023, the WASBO Leader of Distinction Award celebrates superintendents who foster a positive, collaborative environment and empower finance and operations teams to thrive. Since joining Hood Canal, Dr. Gibbon has been praised for his integrity, vision, and unwavering commitment to supporting both staff and students. Under his leadership, the district has seen meaningful progress in financial strategy, school culture, student achievement, and community engagement.
During a surprise award presentation, King noted, “Lance, you’ve transformed your district through trust, collaboration, and forward-thinking leadership. You’ve created a supportive culture that uplifts your staff and inspires those around you.”
In response to the honor, Gibbon shared, “This recognition is really the result of the incredible people I get to work with every day. In a district our size, everyone pitches in. I’m grateful for our board, our staff, and especially for Jeanie Beebe, who is at the heart of it all.”
A District on the Rise
The honors for Dr. Gibbon and Ms. Beebe come during a time of remarkable progress for Hood Canal School. The district was recently one of only 15 schools statewide recognized in the Washington School Recognition Program for both Closing Gaps and Growth. Hood Canal has also posted some of the region’s highest middle school test scores, reached the state basketball championships for the first time, and earned top honors for communications. From a winning Forest Festival button design to a statewide spotlight on improving attendance and acclaimed outdoor education programs, the school’s success continues to grow.
“We’re seeing something really special happen here,” said Gibbon. “It’s not about any one person—it’s about a whole team pulling in the same direction. Our staff, our board, the Skokomish Tribe, and this community all care deeply about our kids. That’s what’s driving this momentum. And with our new strategic plan and capital projects ahead, we’re just getting started.”
