The Tumwater School District (TSD) board convened last September 28, to recognize the recipients of their honor coin, an award modeled on a century-old challenge coin tradition in nationwide organizations such as the military.
“Superintendent Kevin Bogatin has started a new tradition and recognition program in the district to honor those who represent and exemplify the mission of ‘continuous student learning in a caring, engaging environment,” Laurie Wiedenmeyer, TSD’s Director of Communications and Community Relations, wrote in an email.
The coin is similar to the challenge coin, containing the insignias of top leaders or commemorative designs of special events awarded to exemplary officials.
Military and veteran organizations are the first to launch this challenge coin, a rewards system to boost the morale of officers.
The US Department of Defense’s site described the coin’s history as “a military tradition for a century, meant to instill unit pride, improve esprit de corps, and reward hard work and excellence.”
Fork Union Military Academy Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing Dan Thompson quoted in his article that the tradition allegedly dates back to Roman times when legionnaires were awarded for their exceptional service.
Thompson also narrated that US presidents presenting challenge coins to esteemed individuals began with Former President Bill Clinton.
“The coins are meant to instill pride and reward excellence in alignment with our mission,” said Superintendent Kevin Bogatin.
Michelle Paul, a Teacher on Special Assignment (ToSA) for middle school Career Technical Education (CTE) initiatives, was the first to receive a coin.
Paul was featured in King5’s report about Tumwater teachers who tried new approaches to re-engage students.
“Michelle Paul heads up the new curriculum and the summer school courses that emphasize potential career education, like drone piloting-- anything to find ways to get students engaged,” the report stated.
The second set of coins was given to district leaders:
“When you think of caring, you think of these individuals in our schools wouldn't be able to operate without them and be successful without them,” Bogatin said.
Bogatin thanked all of the recipients for their invaluable service to the district.
No official name has been set for the honor coin and award system.
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