Jared Comfort and Susan Cooper have been honored as elementary and secondary principals of the year in the Lawrence school district.
Superintendent Anthony Lewis honored Comfort, principal of Schwegler Elementary School, on Wednesday during the district’s Summer Principal Summit at Lawrence High School, according to a news release from the district.
“Staff nominations praised the 15-year veteran administrator of Schwegler Elementary School for his exemplary commitment to data collection, equity, family partnerships, staff collaboration, and high expectations for all,” according to the release. “Comfort mentors current and future school administrators and supports staff as they develop skills and pursue professional opportunities.”
“Dr. Comfort’s leadership and support in making tough decisions is part of what makes Schwegler great,” Kiley Luckett, Schwegler counselor, said in nominating Comfort. “I for one would not be the quality educator I am today without his guidance, accountability, and support.”
Schwegler teachers Ryan Ellett and Sabrina Long wrote: “Dr. Comfort relentlessly focuses on data collection and fidelity to curricular implementation that directly impacts student growth and achievement,” according to the release.
Cooper, who is in her first year as Lawrence Virtual School principal, was nominated by colleagues who called her a phenomenal instructional leader who “has shown exceptional leadership from the start, setting a positive tone and a clear vision for LVS, and leading professional learning for staff that showcased her depth of knowledge in the areas of equity, instruction, and the district’s strategic plan,” according to the release.
“Nominators spoke of Cooper’s grace and professionalism when facing challenges and her navigation of issues with a focus on student learning and providing equitable access, cohesive curriculum, and an engaging educational experience for all students.”
“One of the most admirable qualities Susan possesses is her desire to seek first to understand,” said Shelly McBeth, curriculum specialist, according to the release. “She is a problem-solver and works tirelessly to build the culture of her school. LVS is lucky to have such a knowledgeable and tenacious educator as principal.”
Truity Credit Union sponsored $500 checks for both educators.
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