Auburn-Washburn USD 437

Washburn Rural High School Principal Ed Raines has been selected as one of only three recipients statewide for the Principal Advocate Award, presented annually by the Kansas School Counselor Association.

The award recognizes school leaders who demonstrate exceptional support for comprehensive school counseling programs and who actively collaborate with school counselors to promote student success. Recipients exemplify leadership in advancing school counseling initiatives, supporting professional development, applying data-driven practices, and fostering a safe and positive school climate.

Marcie Frederickson, WRHS Department Chair and school counselor, nominated Raines for the honor, detailing his steadfast commitment to the counseling profession, his encouragement of professional involvement, and his data-informed approach to improving student outcomes. “He demonstrates unwavering respect for our profession, supports our professional development, and continually strives to partner with us to find ways to improve academic achievement,” Frederickson wrote. "He is extremely positive, supportive, and regularly expresses his appreciation for our work."

Under Raines’ leadership, Washburn Rural High School has seen measurable growth in student participation in programs such as Washburn Tech, where enrollment increased 55 percent in a single year. He has also championed initiatives like Apply Kansas, which has earned WRHS recognition as an All-Star High School for four consecutive years, and Sources of Strength, a student-led program that promotes mental wellness and suicide prevention.

Following the announcement, Auburn-Washburn Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott McWilliams remarked, “This recognition is incredibly well-deserved. Principal Raines is deeply invested in creating a positive and supportive environment for both students and staff. His leadership sets a standard for advocacy and collaboration that strengthens our entire school community.”

The Kansas School Counselor Association recognized Raines and the other award recipients at their annual conference on Friday, October 10.

Auburn-Washburn USD 437

The Auburn-Washburn Board of Education invites you to share your voice in the search for our next superintendent! Please consider joining us at one of the following in-person meetings:

📅 Mon., Oct. 20 at 5:15 PM | Washburn Rural Middle School
📅 Wed., Oct. 22 at 6:00 PM | Washburn Rural North Middle School
📅 Thur., Oct. 23 at 6:00 PM | Washburn Rural High School
📅 Wed., Oct. 29 at 6:30 PM | Shuler Education Center

In addition to these in-person meetings, please consider participating in our online survey, which gives every stakeholder an opportunity to share their input on the qualities most important in our next leader: https://forms.gle/aGT9XcwroPWAztpz8.

Your voice matters in shaping the future of Auburn-Washburn. Thank you for joining us in this critical process as we work together to ensure a bright future for our students and community.