“To be nominated by a staff colleague and recognized by my peers is indeed an honor,” commented Mr. Keller upon learning of the award. “This award is the culmination of a dedicated staff committing themselves in an extraordinary manner to ensure every student within the Mansfield School District has a chance to achieve his or her dreams. From figuring out how to support an all-day kindergarten and preschool without a staff increase to introducing advanced placement classes and computer-based interventions in our core subject areas, we have walked the path together. While I am being recognized as the selectee, I know that a leader only succeeds when those who follow believe. The Mansfield team believes and because of that I am honored today.”

In response to receiving the award for mid-sized districts, Mr. Schmidt remarked, “I have long held the belief that if you surround yourself with good people; good things will happen. As it turns out, incredible things can happen. Bridgeport’s remarkable success story is really a testament to the countless examples of good instruction that take place in our classrooms every day. At a recent graduation ceremony, a senior shared with me the best thing he liked about our staff. He said, ‘You gave us hope. Because I have hope, my younger brothers and sisters have hope.’ Hope, it turns out, is a very powerful tool. The staff in our school dispenses it daily. By honoring me, WASA and PEMCO honor an incredibly talented staff. They are the real heroes in our school. I accept this honor on their behalf.”