Blaire Penry is an instructional specialist and electives teacher for grades six through 12 for the Auburn School District in Auburn, Washington. A true equity-driven educator, she has led in the creation of student equity groups, developed and facilitated equity and diversity professional development for faculties throughout the district and committed to working with local leaders to make sure all students are prepared for the future that they choose.

Informed by her lived experiences and inspired by her activism work, Penry’s vision and voice are integral in continually shaping policies and initiatives that intentionally cultivate a reflective, emboldened staff and student body across her district. Penry prides herself on building engaging, student-centered learning communities, providing consistent and caring guidance and elevating students’ positive sense of self.

In every learning experience she facilitates, her students drive and lead the learning. Her unconditional positivity for her students is a key reason she is so impactful. “I believe that Mrs. Penry is an outstanding teacher. The way that she shows her students how much she cares about them and the energy she brings to the classroom every day constantly making you want to be there is amazing,” says a senior student. Penry’s leadership continues to shape not only her school community, but inspires her colleagues and the student body to be reflective, informed, active citizens of Auburn.