Honoring Terri Washington, School District’s February Veteran of the Month

In a heartfelt moment at the Feb. 6 School Board meeting, the School Board honored Terri Washington, the Dean at Explorer K8, naming her the Veteran of the Month for February.
Terri Washington’s military career started just two years after she graduated from high school due to family trips to Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. Her initial encounter with an Air Force recruiter in Miami led her to an exciting and challenging role as a Morse systems operator. After six weeks of basic training in San Antonio and six months of specialized training at Keesler Air Force Base, Washington was stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield in Hawaii. There, her primary responsibility was to receive and interpret encrypted messages, providing critical intelligence to military authorities.

Washington’s love for her job and the long-lasting friendships she made during her time in the military stood out. Reflecting on her time in the Air Force, she considers it a privilege to have served her country and credits the experience with instilling in her a drive for continual improvement.

Transitioning from military service to education, Washington has brought her exceptional leadership skills and positive energy to Explorer K8. Principal Lisa Braithwaite praises her as a “beloved Bobcat,” highlighting her role as a beacon of positivity for students, parents, and staff alike. Washington is celebrated for her ability to inspire dignity and respect within the school community by counseling students to be reliable and empowering them to achieve their best.
“Terri is our rock, and her pride sustains and motivates us,” says Braithwaite, encapsulating Washington’s profound impact on the Explorer K8 community.

The Hernando County School District is proud to have Terri Washington as a part of its family. Thank you for your service, Ms. Washington, and for your continued dedication to shaping the future of our students.