“I get to work with the best kids in the whole school.”
We told a teeny, tiny fib to Salk Middle School Special Education teacher Lexi Van De Veer when we visited her classroom a few weeks ago.
When we mic’d her up, she thought we were making a video about resources for students and families in our district. We didn’t tell her the real reason she was chosen for the interview. Nine days later, she found out at all all-school assembly.
With her family secretly in attendance, Lexi received the second annual Lou Lou Award, created by the Higgins family to recognize an outstanding special education teacher in Spokane Public Schools.
The award is named after the sister of retired Madison Elementary School teacher Stacy Higgins, Laurel “Lou Lou” Davis, who inspired Stacy’s 43-year career supporting students with special needs.
Lou Lou, Stacy, and the Higgins family presented Lexi with 2026 award, along with a $500 gift to support her students. They have committed to donating $500 to award recipients through 2025.
Congratulations, Lexi! We’re sorry we tricked you, and we’re so proud to celebrate your dedication to Salk Spartans success.