Jake Martin, painter for the School District of Washington, is the May recipient of the Blue Jay Pride Award.

The Blue Jay Pride Award was introduced to recognize and showcase quality School District of Washington staff and the focus on the District’s core beliefs. Through peer nomination, individuals are able to acknowledge exceptional staff who positively impact the schools, district and community. 

The individual who is recognized each month will be presented with a traveling plaque and a gift card.

Martin’s nomination from three elementary principals stated the following:

“Jake does a great job and is a true professional. I am amazed at the quality of his work, sense of design, and the speed at which he does it.” 

“Jake is a sneaky employee who is in and out of the building without being seen, but you know he's there because of how the building looks. With the updating of our school building, Jake has listened to ideas and crazy thoughts, paints our vision, and then may have to repaint because he didn't like how it looked. The most exciting thing about having Jake working at night is the student's excitement when they see the work that he has done. He is nonstop and gets the work done quickly. PS-If you ask him if he was a basketball player, he'll fib to you!”

“Jake was truly outstanding to work with throughout Campbellton’s transformation. Anytime I had an idea, he embraced it with positivity and immediately began problem-solving ways to make it happen, even when it involved something new or outside of the norm. Jake brings an incredibly positive attitude to everything he does. I am not sure he even uses the word ‘no.’ Instead; he collaborates, offers thoughtful ideas, and works alongside others to create the best possible outcome. Jake became part of the Campbellton Crew during his time here. He was always kind and welcoming to staff and students and never hesitated to jump in and help. I may have used his height to help hang things on numerous occasions. His willingness to help, paired with his sense of humor and positive energy, made a lasting impression on our building. Jake’s dedication and passion for his work are evident in every space he touched. Because of his hard work, creativity, and eye for design, Campbellton truly feels like a brand-new building. His ideas for accent walls, colors, and overall flow helped create an environment that is cheerful, welcoming, and fun for students and staff. “

Martin was presented the Blue Jay Pride Award traveling plaque by SDOW Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart. He also received a gift bag from the Bank of Washington, represented by Sam Unnerstall and Danielle Unerstall.

Click here for more information on the Blue Jay Pride Award.

 

Jake Martin

Painter, School District of Washington

Blue Jay Pride Award

May 2026

 

Jake Martin was presented the Blue Jay Pride Award traveling plaque by School District of Washington Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart.

 

Jake Martin receives a gift bag from the Bank of Washington’s Sam Unnerstall, left, and Danielle Unnerstall, right.

 

Jake Martin is the May recipient of the Blue Jay Pride Award. From left are School District of Washington Assistant Superintendent Dr. Rachael Franssen, SDOW Assistant Director of Buildings and Grounds Glen Bade, Jake Martin, SDOW Director of Buildings and Grounds Jeff Solter, SDOW Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart, SDOW Assistant Superintendent John McColloch and SDOW Custodial Supervisor Dave Wells.