State Rep. Dave Quall, D-Mount Vernon, was gaveled at the Washington Association of School Administrators summer conference in July, but unlike being gaveled on the floor of the House, this was something to celebrate.

Every year, the association awards its Golden Gavel Award to an individual “who has made an outstanding contribution to public education in the state of Washington that is statewide and has lasting value.” It is the organization’s most prestigious award.

Rich McBride, association past president, presented the award to Quall.

“Representative Quall was selected for this award because of his dedication and commitment to schools and kids as demonstrated by his 38 years as a teacher, counselor, and coach, and his 16 years in the Washington state House of Representatives. He is currently the chair of the House Education Committee and has served in that role for 12 years.

“His leadership has had a profound and lasting impact on education in our state because his hearings are always conducted with respect and enthusiasm for what is happening in education; and they consistently reflect his favorite quote from his long-time friend, Ben Edlund: ‘If it is good for boys and girls, do it.’”

Quall, who is also known as “Coach” by his colleagues because of his tireless work on education issues, expressed his appreciation for the association’s work.

“It’s an incredible honor to receive this award and know that our work in Olympia is making a positive change in our schools,” Quall said. “But I also want to thank each of WASA’s members for the work they do in our schools and classrooms day in and day out. It’s because we have such dedicated, skilled leaders managing our schools that our children are able to thrive and succeed.”