10/20/2026
Promise Award 2026 Spotlight ⭐ Outstanding Leadership Award, Laurel Peak, principal at Squalicum High School
Laurel Peak is commended for being a tireless, amazing advocate for students and staff as principal at Squalicum High School.
Her top priority is helping and advocating for a diverse population of students, while also making sure staff are supported. She embodies what it means to be a part of the Squalicum family.
A nominator said, “She never gives up on a student.” The nominator also said, “I can genuinely say I’ve never had a principal that was so hands-on with the minutia of thousands of things going on around a high school.”
Laurel has genuine care for each student at Squalicum, and is constantly present throughout the school to communicate this care to students. This same care of modeled in leadership of staff – as evidenced by separate nominations from several staff members applauding her leadership.
A colleague shared that Laurel “…engages herself in the school community to the point that students know she cares, while still realizing she is an authority figure – a tricky line to walk and pull off.”
Another colleague shared, “Her visible presence in the building – working directly with students and staff – creates an environment where teachers know they are genuinely supported. This consistent, joyful engagement builds the trust and psychological safety that educators need to take instructional risks, innovate in their practice, and focus their energy on student learning rather than navigating administrative obstacles.”
Laurel brings warmth and joy to conversations and interactions, which helps empower students to achieve their potential. She also shows grace and flexibility for letting students find success in their own way. A student nomination shared that Laurel has changed the campus community, and that her ability to lead by example changed the student's heart as well.
