EVERETT, WA – Cascade High School (CHS) teacher Stephen Sibley has been named the Washington Journalism Education Association (WJEA) Adviser of the Year. The award was presented at the WJEA
Spring Conference at Central Kitsap High School in Silverdale on March 7. The honor recognizes
outstanding journalism advisers across the state and is nominated by students.

“Mr. Stephen Sibley always carries a happy, inviting smile and persona, and encouraged everyone to join Cascade’s yearbook staff,” a CHS senior wrote in a nomination letter. “When I joined it in my junior year, Sibley saw more in me than I did, and had me do more than I thought I could’ve done. Working with him helped me become more confident, develop life skills, and develop a deeper knowledge of every aspect of the yearbook.”
Sibley teaches graphic design, photography, and yearbook at CHS, where he’s in his 14th year teaching and advising yearbook and publications.  “Mr. Sibley creates an environment where students feel supported,
challenged, and inspired to do their best work,” CHS Principal Michael Takayoshi said. “His commitment to
helping students grow is evident in everything he does.”
Adviser of the Year is selected by the previous year’s winner. Central Kitsap High School Adviser Kate Miller
selected Sibley for the 2026 honor.

“Sibley stood out because of the powerful way his students described him,” Miller said. “Their nomination made it clear he not only teaches journalism techniques, but also builds confidence and leadership
skills in his students.”