Longtime school district volunteer receives Key to the District
Annual award recognizes service to students and schools
– Paso Robles Joint Unified School District honored longtime volunteer and community leader Vickie Werling with the district’s highest volunteer recognition, the Key to the District award, during the Annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on Wednesday evening.
Established during the 2024-25 school year, the Key to the District award recognizes an individual or group whose service has made a lasting impact on district students, schools, and the broader community. The inaugural award was presented in 2025 to Sayra Celis for service to Lewis Flamson Junior High School.
District officials said the annual honor is presented to volunteers who demonstrate dedication, leadership, collaboration, and commitment to student success.
Werling was recognized for years of service supporting Paso Robles High School athletics, students, and families through her leadership with the Bearcat Booster organization, her work as a volleyball coach, and her involvement in campus improvement and community-building projects.
“I have been involved in high school athletics for nearly forty years,” said Michael Susank during the presentation. “In all that time, I have never encountered a leader more committed, professional, organized, or selfless than Vickie Werling.”
Susank said Werling regularly supported Paso Robles High School athletics behind the scenes by preparing for Friday night football games, organizing booster operations, and helping programs run for students and families.
In addition to coaching indoor and beach volleyball, Werling helped lead projects including the baseball batting cage project and construction of the school’s beach volleyball courts. District officials also said she recently led the inaugural Future Bearcat Festival, a TK-8 community event designed to bring together students and families from schools across Paso Robles.
District leaders also highlighted Werling’s role in revitalizing the Bearcat Booster snack bar operation, which serves families and community members during athletic events.
“What truly makes Vickie special is that she never seeks out recognition,” Susank said. “She simply sees a need and steps in to help.”
The Key to the District award recognizes volunteers whose service demonstrates commitment, positive impact, alignment with district values, and the ability to inspire others through leadership and civic engagement. Final selection is made by the superintendent.
“On behalf of our entire District, I am honored to present this Key to the District in recognition of your lasting impact, your dedicated service, and your unwavering commitment to PRJUSD students,” Susank said during the ceremony.
District officials said Werling’s recognition reflects the impact volunteers continue to have across Paso Robles Joint Unified School District schools, programs, and student experiences each year.
Paso Robles Joint Unified School District serves more than 6,400 students across northern San Luis Obispo County.
