2012 - Regional Classified School Employee of the Year - Penny Reinitz

Penny began in Oakville in 2005 and has served as the Student Services Coordinator since 2008. Although her previous work was in early childhood education at the Rochester Head Start, Penny’s current role is focused on student achievement at the middle and high school level.



Penny’s determined, organized and high energy approach to her work has made her the perfect person to tackle challenges such as graduation rates and truancy. Through her focused efforts with individual students, Oakville has been able to raise its graduation rate and last year earned a Washington Achievement Award for Extended Graduation Rate.



Penny was also instrumental in helping the high school secure a School Improvement Grant last year, which has enabled the school to hire both a guidance counselor and a vice principal. As graduation and truancy have transitioned to these new staff, Penny has tackled a new challenge: tardiness. Through a handful of initiatives spearheaded by Penny, tardiness has already been reduced by 50%.



Penny’s other role at the district is Chehalis Tribal Liaison. Working with tribal leaders, Penny has built the Truancy, Attitude and Grades (TAG) partnership to address challenges for Native students. Over time, this group has become a model for others. Penny and other members have been invited to attend and present at events across the country.



Tracy M. Bray, who is both a TAG partner and a parent, believes it is Penny’s accessibility that is her greatest asset. “Penny always has an open door and an open mind when a student needs her. She doesn’t make promises to them that she can’t keep, and she calls them on their attitude when necessary. Because of this Penny has earned the respect of the students at the Oakville School District. When a student is having an off day, they know that there is one adult who will always have time for them… Penny. As a parent, I feel the same support. I know that if I need her, Penny will be right there.”