Sumner High teacher named Whole Child Hero

In celebration of Whole Child Month in January, Olivia Moon has been recognized as Sumner-Bonney Lake School District’s Whole Child Hero — an honor awarded to an educator who champions the growth and empowerment of students in every aspect of their lives. A Whole Child Hero supports not only academic achievement, but also mental health, inclusivity, empathy and emotional resilience. Olivia embodies all of these qualities and more.

Olivia was nominated by her peers, who said she is a fierce advocate for students. As an art teacher at Sumner High School, Olivia works with an incredibly diverse range of students, including multilingual students, gifted learners and students with special needs. She exposes her students to art from all over the world, both modern and historical, to open students' eyes to the world outside of what we see everyday.

"If you tell her something, she doesn't just give you solutions, she really validates how you are feeling and it makes you feel so much better,” said one student. 

“I have never met a teacher who is a better communicator with students and families about their progress and how they can improve at school,” said one of her nominators. 

Working closely with support staff, administrators, counselors, Elhi Hill High School Program staff and more, both students and staff know Olivia is someone who leads with kindness in her work. Congratulations, Olivia!