AthleticsAthletics News
Bush Athletic Director Jo Ito named ESC Athletic Director of the Year
Congratulations to Bush Athletic Director, Jo Ito, on being named the Emerald Sound Conference (ESC) Athletic Director of the Year for 2025–2026.
"Having first worked with Jo as an intern in 2018, and now as his colleague, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how his leadership, mentorship, and vision have transformed the Bush Athletics program—significantly growing participation, elevating competitive success, and shaping a culture rooted in excellence and inclusion,” Bush Associate Athletic Erin Saunderson said. “His impact extends far beyond our campus, and being nominated by colleagues across our league is a testament to the respect he’s earned; there is truly no one more deserving of the 2025-2026 ESC Athletic Director of the Year award."
Since joining The Bush School in 2014, Jo has championed an athletics experience that is competitive, welcoming, and deeply rooted in the values that define our community. Under his leadership, Bush athletics has continued to grow in both participation and spirit - this year, 74 percent of Middle and Upper School students are involved in a Bush team, and many student-athletes pursue their passions at the collegiate level.
Jo’s work is guided by a commitment to nurturing open-mindedness, teamwork, courage, and joy. Families, coaches, and students consistently point to his steady leadership, his care for holistic student growth, and his ability to build a culture where every athlete feels seen, supported, and challenged.
This recognition follows Jo’s earlier honor as the ESC Athletic Director of the Year (2021–2022). With this latest award, he now advances to consideration for the District and State Athletic Director of the Year titles, which will be announced in 2026.
Beyond his role in athletics, Jo is a beloved presence throughout campus life, advising the Upper School Garden Club, lending a hand with the Lower School Service Club, and modeling what it looks like to contribute to community in meaningful, everyday ways.
Congrats, Jo! We are grateful for the energy, care, and vision you bring to Bush athletics and to our K–12 community every day.
The Bush School is an independent day school located in Seattle, WA enrolling 745 students in grades K–12. The mission of The Bush School is to spark in students of diverse backgrounds and talents a passion for learning, accomplishment, and contribution to their communities
3400 East Harrison Street, Seattle WA 98112 (206) 322-7978
The Bush School does not discriminate in matters of employment, recruitment, admissions, or administration of any of its programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, gender, or sexual orientation. In addition, The Bush School does not discriminate in matters of employment on the basis of age or marital status