Washington Elementary School Positive Behavior Technician Allison Larson has been named the 2026 Fargo Public Schools Support Staff of the Year. Fargo Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Cory Steiner made the surprise announcement today at Washington during a staff meeting.
Larson is described as playing a key role in making Washington Elementary School a place for all students to learn and grow and is crucial to helping the school fulfill the FPS mission of educating and empowering all students to succeed. Her nominators say her patience ensures every student feels valued and understood, even on days when learning is challenging.
She helps create a safe learning environment where students are comfortable trying new things and making mistakes. Her colleagues say she accepts each child for who they are, meets them where they are at, and is available and willing to listen without judgment. Her steady and composed presence models emotional regulation and reassures students that they are supported. Her ability to stay calm in high-stress situations allows students and staff to remain grounded and composed. Her positivity helps her build strong relationships with students and fellow staff and contributes to a school culture where students feel cared for and motivated to do their best.
Prior to beginning in her role as a behavioral technician at Washington in 2023, Larson did not have much experience working directly with students. But her nominators say she immediately jumped into her role with openness, humility, and a genuine desire to learn. She quickly grew into a reliable and committed staff member. Colleagues know they can depend on her to step in, problem-solve, and maintain a positive attitude.
Larson follows Denise Adelman, positive behavior technician at McKinley Elementary School, as the Support Staff of the Year honoree. The Fargo Public Schools Support Staff of the Year award has been presented within the District since 2014. The honor is an award regularly bestowed as part of the District’s annual Staff Recognition Program. The District also annually recognizes a Teacher of the Year and an Administrator of the Year.
