NASBLA names the 2023 Western Region Educator of the Year award winner
Kosette Isakson, of the Alaska Office of Boating Safety, has been named the NASBLA Western Region Educator of the Year for 2023.
As a key member of the Alaska Office of Boating Safety, Isakson has played a pivotal role in elevating the organization to new heights. Her passion for boating and continuous dedication to sharing boating safety knowledge has made her one of the office's most respected and sought-after instructors. Isakson’s vast experience and expertise in the field have earned her a devoted fan base of repeat customers who consistently seek her training programs.
One of Isakson’s most notable accomplishments is her role as the coordinator of Alaska's Kids Don't Float program, a statewide safety initiative aimed at addressing the high child and youth drowning rates across the state. Through this program, Isakson has reached over 17,000 students since January 2022, either through direct delivery or by coordinating the efforts of the office's other instructors and volunteers. The Kids Don't Float program combines classroom work, skills sessions in the pool, and the Ambassador Program, providing a comprehensive approach to water safety education.
Geared towards high school students, the Ambassador Program equips participants with the skills to utilize the Kids Don't Float curriculum in creating their own lesson plans, which they subsequently teach at elementary schools within their community. Isakson took charge of organizing and co-presenting more than 35 ambassador classes. Her exceptional contributions and commitment to promoting boating safety have set her apart as an outstanding leader, innovator, and educator.
Additionally, Isakson has developed the Save It for the Shore campaign, a successful initiative that encourages responsible boating practices in relation to boating under the influence (BUI). Through partnerships with local breweries and the power of social media, Isakson and her team have raised awareness about the dangers of alcohol consumption on the water. The campaign's messaging has resonated with the public, leading to increased participation from over 15 breweries and related businesses. Through this initiative, the Office of Boating Safety has been able to take its messaging from an audience of about 3,000 followers to an audience of more than 300,000. In addition to this success, there has been a significant decrease in the number of breweries posting pictures of individuals consuming alcohol on boats.
Isakson’s commitment to boating safety, combined with her exceptional organizational skills and ability to inspire others, has made her an invaluable asset to the Office of Boating Safety. Her tireless efforts have not only saved lives but have also advanced the field of boating safety education in Alaska. Congratulations, Kosette Isakson!
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Generously sponsored by Kalkomey Enterprises, Inc., the Pamela S. Dillon Boating Educator of the Year Award was launched by NASBLA in 2011 to recognize those who go above to engage students and boaters, raise awareness, and make boating education initiatives relevant, thorough and exciting.
The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) is a national nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization that works to develop public policy for recreational boating safety. NASBLA represents the recreational boating authorities of all 50 states and the U.S. territories. We offer a variety of resources, including training, model acts, education standards, publications and more. Through a national network of thousands of professional educators, law enforcement officers and volunteers, we affect the lives of nearly 85 million American boaters.