Krystle Herpst
Krystle Herpst is a general duty aide at Hockinson Heights Elementary School. This is Krystle’s third year with the HSD. She initially joined HHES as a long-term substitute in 2023, then became a permanent member of the team six months later.
Krystle begins each school day by greeting students as they get off the bus and setting up sports equipment for them to enjoy. Throughout the rest of her day, she monitors five morning recesses, assists in the lunchroom for kindergarten through second grade, and helps coordinate parent pick-up at the end of the day. Along the way, she also supports staff by running notes for end-of-day student plans.
Her favorite part of the job is connecting with students throughout the day. She loves hearing about their pets, sports, and what they enjoy outside of school. Krystle also appreciates the strong, supportive team at HHES.
HHES Lead Secretary Angie Landon describes Krystle as “the gold standard” in her role, praising her leadership and supportive spirit. “She has outstanding relationships with students and staff by showing respect and compassion in everything she does.” She also shared that Krystle is “the go-to person” for incoming team members and plays an important role in training and supporting substitute staff.
Thank you, Krystle, for all you do at HHES!
Shawna Donovan
Shawna Donovan is a paraeducator at Hockinson Middle School known for her positive attitude and steady perseverance in supporting students. She worked as a caregiver prior to joining the HMS team this past September, and shared that she has always known she was called to help others.
As a paraeducator, Shawna supports students with behavioral and nonverbal needs throughout the school day. She provides academic assistance, helps students complete daily tasks, and works with them to strengthen their communication and emotional regulation skills. Shawna also collaborates closely with HMS teachers to ensure each student feels supported, safe, and set up for success. For Shawna, the best part of her job is watching her students grow. “I especially like seeing the small wins that make a big difference,” she said.
HHES Lead Secretary Angie Landon says Shawna brings both passion and determination to her work. “Shawna has the best 'can-do' attitude. She comes in every day with a smile on her face and has a huge heart for students. Shawna shows great fortitude and perseveres in her role as paraeducator.”
Thank you, Shawna, for all you do at HMS!
Hunter Jackson
Hunter Jackson is a behavior technician at Hockinson High School known for his calm presence and ability to connect with students. In his role, Hunter works closely with students and teachers to help create a supportive learning environment and ensure students have the tools they need to succeed.
As a behavior technician, Hunter supports students throughout the school day by helping them navigate challenges, stay engaged in learning, and build positive relationships with peers. He collaborates closely with teachers to support student success and contribute to a stable, encouraging classroom environment.
HHES Lead Secretary Angie Landon says Hunter’s steady demeanor and teamwork stand out to those around him. “Hunter is always cool, calm, and collected. He has a strong ability to connect with students. His collaboration with teachers for the greater good of the students he serves is definitely highlighted by the people he works with.”
Thank you, Hunter, for all you do at HHS!
Norm Thurston
Norm Thurston is one of our amazing bus drivers. Norm has been driving school buses for 10 years, including the past nine years serving Hockinson students and families.
“My favorite part of the role is interacting with the kids, particularly the younger ones. It’s been rewarding to watch them grow over the years. Over nine years, you develop bonds with students and their parents. As you get to know them, it’s almost like a family,” said Norm.
Norm begins work at about 6:30 am each morning. After picking up his bus keys, he begins his first route at Hockinson Heights Elementary. After that, Norm drives morning routes at Hockinson Middle School and Hockinson High School. In the afternoon, Norm returns to do it all again for afternoon drop-offs!
”Norm strives for mutual respect with the students and prides himself on building strong relationships with families. He is known for going well above and beyond the call of a bus driver's duty,” said HHES Lead Secretary Angie Landon.
Norm started driving school buses because he was looking for something to do in the community.
“There’s a community of bus drivers out there, and we really care for and support the kids. There’s not one bus driver out there that wouldn’t do anything they can to help the kids,” said Norm.
Julie Watson
Julie Watson is a general duty aide at Hockinson Heights Elementary School. She is one of our longest-tenured general duty aides! In addition to her work at HHES, Julie stepped up to take on district courier responsibilities.
HHES Lead Secretary Angie Landon says Julie’s positive attitude and dedication stand out to those around her. “Julie is dependable, competent, cheerful, and always cares about doing the best job. We all adore her. She is also great with our students.”
Assistant Superintendent Joshua Robertson says Julie’s contributions do not go unnoticed. “Her hard work and attention to detail help HSD operate smoothly to serve our students. We are fortunate to have her on the HSD team,” he said.
Thank you, Julie, for all you do at HHES and across Hockinson School District!