PORT ORCHARD — Not only is Lisa Fundane’t the principal of Sunnyslope Elementary in Port Orchard, she’s also the Elementary School Principals’ Association of Washington’s Principal of the Year for 2018.

The organization, which has 18 regions throughout Washington state, named Fundane’t as one of 18 Distinguished Principals. The Peninsula Region consists of all school districts from Peninsula School District north to Port Townsend and west to Cape Flattery School District.

According to South Kitsap School District spokeswoman Amy Miller, Fundane’t was surprised during a March 14 staff meeting with the award by Karst Brandsma, the district superintendent, Assistant Superintendent Jay Villars and ESPAW Regional Director Chris Visserman.

The certificate of recognition to Fundane’t read: “The award is presented as a tribute to your deep and professional commitment to the children of your school.

“Additionally, it represents the pride and admiration of our colleagues for your efforts in promoting positive school-community relations, for implementing instructional programs leading to academic excellence, and for your active participation in strengthening your local, state and national professional principals association.”