Bend-La Pine Schools presented its Support Staff Member of the Year award Wednesday to Liz Vargas, Welcome Center Liaison at the Bend-La Pine Schools Education Center. Superintendent Steven Cook and other district officials made the surprise presentation.
Vargas has been with Bend-La Pine Schools for eight years, working with newcomer families and supporting programs that include Family Access Network and McKinney-Vento Act services for students experiencing homelessness.
“Liz is one of those rare people whose presence changes the temperature of a room, in the best possible way. She leads with dignity, compassion, and an unshakable belief that every family belongs here in our schools and in our community,” Dr. Cook said. “With calm assurance and cultural humility, Liz transforms what could be an overwhelming process into an experience defined by kindness, trust, and genuine care.”
Every day Vargas supports incoming families, guides students, and collaborates with staff in every school. She also designed and implemented a more efficient intake system that connects families to vital community organizations.
“Liz embodies the values of dignity, inclusion, and belonging that our district holds foundational,” said Kinsey Martin, Executive Director of Policy, Advocacy, and Equity. “She is often the first face our most vulnerable students and families see when they start in our schools, and she ensures a welcoming experience for every child and family she meets.”
Dr. Cook was joined Wednesday at the Education Center by School Board Director Cameron Fischer, Deputy Superintendent Lisa Birk, Kinsey Martin, other District leaders and Welcome Center staff. On behalf of Vargas, representatives of MidOregon Credit Union presented the Welcome Center with a $500 check.
The District will present one more Excellence in Education award this week, Educator of the Year. On Tuesday, Caldera High School Principal Chris Boyd was honored as Administrator of the Year. The Excellence in Education awards celebrate custodians, counselors, kitchen managers, classroom teachers, educational assistants, office managers, bus drivers and other district employees who have had a positive impact on students.
The recognition began last spring when Bend-La Pine Schools honored dozens of staff members from across the district who distinguished themselves with their leadership, innovation, outstanding professional practice, and positive contributions at work and in the community. From that group, 13 finalists have been celebrated this fall.