Each year, Olympia takes a moment to recognize the extraordinary efforts of its faculty and staff. This year, the spotlight shines on
Lakina Coleman and Jacob Pickett, who have gone above and beyond in their roles, leaving a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike.
The announcement of the awards was full of emotion and surprise. Ms. Coleman, the Support Person of the Year, recalled the moment vividly: “I was really shocked when they opened the door. Everybody came out. I almost cried.” It’s clear why her colleagues hold Coleman in such high regard, her reaction captured just how much she cared about the community she’s a part of. Jacob Pickett, chosen for the Teacher of the Year, had a similar mix of excitement and warmth, sharing a quiet, joyful moment with his wife, fellow Olympia teacher Mrs. Pickett, after the announcement. “It was great to have her there and be able to share that experience with her,” he said. At Olympia, behind every regalia and achievement, no matter how high, there is genuine human emotion and sometimes even a loved one applauding in the crowd.
Both awardees emphasized the effort they put into their work. Ms. Coleman explained, “I make sure everything is in place. When we
learn something new from the year before, I make sure we have it in place the following year.” Her dedication to keeping things organized and running smoothly shows how much she strives to make life easier for everyone around her. Mr. Pickett shared his own approach to supporting the Titan community, noting that the heart of his teaching isn’t just about music but about helping students grow as people. “Hopefully other teachers see that what we’re doing in the band classroom is helping students be whole people, giving them a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and confidence,” he explained. Together, they are living proof that success in education is about being thoughtful, open-minded, and looking out for those around you. Their words reflect two different strengths— Coleman’s commitment to structure and Pickett’s focus on growth— that together make Olympia a better place.
When asked what advice they would give to someone just starting out, Ms. Coleman encouraged persistence: “At first, it will seem like a lot… but the more you see it, the easier it gets… just try, push through it and it will become easier with time.” This is a great reflection of the kind of calm confidence that comes from experience. Ms. Coleman’s words serve as a reassurance that it does get easier if you keep at it. Mr. Pickett echoed a similar sentiment but centered his advice on self-improvement and learning from one’s own experience. “Teaching is constant growth,” he explained, “if you make a mistake, it’s okay— you are not ruining anyone’s life. You can fix it and keep moving. Just keep pushing forward.” Their words show that perseverance and constant striving for excellence are keys to making an impact on education.
Without a doubt, challenges have also been part of both their journeys. Coleman admitted, “sometimes people try to knock you out… but you talk them through it, get them through it,” which perfectly explains the kind of professional Ms. Coleman is— she doesn’t just solve problems, she guides people, helping them navigate tricky situations with patience and understanding. Pickett, on the other hand, reflected on more of an internal challenge, rooted in self-doubt, especially in a field full of talented educators. Pickett explained that “In the band world, there are so many fantastic teachers, and it’s easy to compare yourself. I had to overcome that and just believe in my ability to help my students grow as people.” Mr. Pickett’s commitment to not simply teaching the curriculum but also preparing those in his classroom for real life is remarkable. Their experiences show that obstacles don’t define the work, they shape it, helping them grow while supporting everyone around them.
Recognition like this is more than just an award— it’s a celebration of the passion, commitment, and countless acts of care that make Olympia feel like a place of support and growth. Lakina Coleman and Jacob Pickett exemplify how care and dedication can ripple through classrooms, hallways, and beyond, inspiring others to strive for excellence. Their impact will last far beyond this year’s announcement, leaving a legacy of dedication for others to follow.
As the school applauds their achievements, it’s clear that these two embody the spirit of service and leadership that makes our Titan community exceptional, reminding us all that hard work, empathy, and genuine care are at the heart of every success story. Together, they show us that when passion meets perseverance, anything is possible. With leaders like Ms. Coleman and Mr. Pickett, the future of Olympia shines brighter than ever.