Thoughtfulness and service have embodied Donna Tyo’s career in education and athletics.

From 1984-87 Tyo was the Athletic Director at Eastside Catholic High School where she began her 43 years in education.

She then moved on to serve 22 years at Bothell High School and finished her career in education as Principal at Secondary Academy for Success in 2023. Now, Tyo serves as one of three WIAA State Hearing Officers.

Early in Tyo’s career, she recognized an athletic program is the heart of a school’s community, and when students are engaged in extracurricular activities there is a direct correlation to academic success. 

As an administrator, Tyo created sportsmanship programs involving student leaders from all three Northshore high schools, emphasizing the importance of common spirit expectations, established parent partnerships with booster clubs and led the processes to build a structure for uniforms, fundraising, and ASB involvement in extracurricular activities.

Tyo’s advocacy for education-based athletics can be highlighted through her colleagues’ words who continue to mention the commitment to her students and the success of programs she has helped build.

“She turned a struggling athletic program with no focus, vision or commitment into a well-run, competitive and flourishing program,” Yonni Mills said.

Tyo’s passion for athletics has not only allowed for so many student athletes to thrive within their sports but her advocacy for athletics has also laid a foundation for many young women to see themselves in athletic spaces.

Bob Stewart noted, “She was one of a handful of female athletic directors in the state who served as a role model for those who followed.”

Beyond serving as an administrator in the Northshore School District, Donna has acted as the President of the KingCo League, and has been awarded local and nationwide accolades: International Who’s Who of Professionals and Who’s Who of Teachers, and District II Athletic Director of the Year. 

Today, Tyo continues to work diligently with the WIAA through its eligibility process where she looks for equity when black and white writing can’t.

She sees beyond what is written and humanizes student family experiences, and she has been an inspiration to all who have and continue to work with her.