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Elementary School Awards
Administrators
- National Distinguished Principals Award
- Assistant Principal of the Year Program
- William Cieslukowski Outstanding First Year Principal Award
Connecticut's National Distinguished Principal Award
The National Association of Elementary School Principals and the United States Department of Education have developed a program to recognize the important role of elementary school principals. In Connecticut the program is administered by the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS). The program recognizes an outstanding principal in each state who has truly made a difference and brought about positive change in his/her school. These principals must demonstrate leadership and organizational skills that have reached beyond their buildings. They must instill in others a sense of purpose and move all in the school community close to fulfilling the school's mission. These principals must demonstrate exceptional skills in communicating with others in an effective and open manner. They must recognize the importance of helping others to realize their potential. They must facilitate creating a school community. They must exercise resources available to them. A National Distinguished Principal serves as a symbol of the work of all elementary principals who pursue excellence and exceed the requirements of their jobs.Nominations are solicited from school districts throughout Connecticut. Nomination packets must include two letters of recommendation and a copy of the nominee's resume.
- Nominations may be made by superintendents, fellow administrators, teachers and parents.
- All nominees must be members of CAS and have five years of experience as a school principal. The individual selected for the award must be an active principal in Connecticut during the year in which he or she will receive the award.
The CAS National Distinguished Principal Award Committee will select the state honoree after a review of the finalists' applications and site visits. Honorees will be recognized locally by CAS and nationally by NAESP.
Criteria for Selection
The selected principal:
- is an active principal of a school in which a commitment is clearly evident through programs designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students, and through firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations;
- has been an active principal for at least five years;
- will be an active principal during the year in which he/she will receive the award;
- shows a strong commitment to the principalship through active membership in professional associations;
- is respected by students, colleagues, parents, and the community at large;
- assumes an active role in his/her community, distinguishing himself/herself as a leader in civic, religious, or humanitarian activities;
- shows strong educational leadership by setting high expectations for
- school staff and students;
- maintains an orderly, purposeful learning environment.
- ways in which the principal's leadership has benefitted curriculum, staff morale, community support, student interest, and the learning environment;
- ways in which the principal provides creative leadership to inspire teachers and others to achieve and contribute to the school environment;
- examples of service or achievements above and beyond what is expected in the usual school program;
- ways in which others have acknowledged the principal as a force for positive change.
Assistant Principal of the Year
The Assistant Principal of the Year Program, sponsored annually by the Connecticut Association of Schools and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, was established in 1990 to bring recognition to the assistant principalship and to spotlight the critical role that assistant principals play in the education of our youth. The program recognizes outstanding school assistant principals who have succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. These administrators have demonstrated excellent leadership commitment to staff and students, service to their communities, and contributions to the overall profession of educational leadership.Each year nominations are solicited for an Elementary, Middle Level, and High School Assistant Principal of the Year. The winners are chosen by the CAS Awards and Recognition Committee, a selection committee consisting of active and retired principals and assistant principals. The selections are made in December. Either the middle or high school honoree will be recognized nationally by NASSP and will represent Connecticut in the competition for National Assistant Principal of the Year, sponsored by NASSP and McDonald's. (NASSP does not include elementary schools.) From the 52 state winners, three finalists are selected and become eligible to be named the National Assistant Principal of the Year. The national winner receives a $5,000 award from McDonald's Corporation.
In the spring, each recognized assistant principal is presented with a $1,000 award and a plaque, contributed by program partner McDonald's Corporation. The presentation is made in the assistant principal's community by a local McDonald's representative.
All candidates must work in a CAS member school and have three years experience as an assistant principal (or the equivalent thereof).
CRITERIA FOR AWARD
Candidates should demonstrate success in the following areas:
Educational Leadership
- implements strategies for improving teaching and learning by putting programs and improvement efforts into action.
- involves teachers and other staff members in achieving the goals of the school.
- assists in ensuring the school climate is positive and reflects high staff and student morale.
- maintains awareness of current and emerging issues.
- resolves short-term issues while balancing them against long-term objectives.
- manages time and tasks effectively including delegation to others.
- is committed to continued professional growth.
- teaches, coaches and helps others (students and colleagues).
- demonstrates and fosters creativity and imagination in bringing about positive change.
- involves the community in the life of the school and uses community resources for students.
- establishes partnerships with community groups to strengthen programs and support school goals.
For information about application procedures, contact Karen Packtor at kpacktor@casciac.org.
William Cieslukowski Outstanding First Year Principal Awards
To honor William Cieslukowski, a dedicated school principal and former president of the Elementary & Middle School Principals of Connecticut, this award recognizes a first year elementary, middle and high school principal who have had a positive impact on their school or school district. The recipients must demonstrate exemplary instructional and organizational leadership, a willingness to take risks, and the ability to overcome adversity.Nominations may be made by superintendents, teachers, or colleague principals.
Click here to download an application.
Teachers
CAS Elementary Exemplary Educator Award
PURPOSE:Every elementary level school in Connecticut has a number of outstanding educators. The purpose of this award is to give public recognition in Connecticut and nationally to a CAS member elementary level educator, one who represents them.
Nominations may be made by any present or former member of the school staff or district central office personnel.
The educator chosen will receive recognition in the media, in CAS publications and at a CAS sponsored ceremony.
ELIGIBILITY:
CAS recognizes that an outstanding elementary educator creates a classroom and school environment appropriate to the needs of the elementary-level student. The following criteria will be used to determine the recipient of this award:
- Candidate must be a practicing educator of a CAS elementary school who exhibits the following:
a. Demonstrates excellence in teaching/education
b. Demonstrates involvement with students, staff, and parents in and out of the classroom
c. Demonstrates leadership within the profession - The candidate should be in at least her/his fifth year as a practicing elementary school educator in Connecticut and in at least the third year in their present position.
- Nominations may be made by any present or former member of the school staff or district central office personnel.
- Nominations must be accompanied by three(3) letters of recommendation, submitted on the forms provided, by any persons who are qualified to judge the professional performance of the candidate. ONE OF THE THREE LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION MUST BE FROM THE BUILDING PRINCIPAL. Incomplete nominations will not be considered.
- Finalists will be asked to write a one to two page reflective essay about his/her beliefs, motvations and/or experiences as an elementary level educator.
- The succesful candidate will be invited to share his/her expertise through CAS sponsored workshops and/or programs.
- Nominations must be postmarked or delivered to CAS no later than February 28, 2014.
- Nominations should be sent to: Regina Birdsell, Assistant Executive Director, Connecticut Association of Schools, 30 Realty Drive, Cheshire, CT 06410
John Wallace Awards
The John Wallace Awards were established in memory of John Wallace, a dedicated school superintendent. Two awards are offered:- The John Wallace Graduate Fellowship for eligible graduate students preparing to become elementary, middle or high school administrators;
- The John Wallace Scholarship for eligible undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in a teacher preparation program.
Each applicant will complete an application and submit a reference letter from his/her professional supervisor.
The John Wallace Scholarships are for eligible undergraduate or graduate students studying in accredited higher education institutions.
The selected scholarship recipients will not complete his/her program in the year in which the scholarship is awarded.
The Wallace Scholarships are open to candidates who are associated with a CAS member school (either themselves or through a parent or guardian).
(NOTE: Wallace Scholarships are offered at the elementary, middle and high school levels. Application procedures and selection processes may vary among levels.)
Click here to download an application:
Elementary Program Recognition Banquet
The Elementary Program Recognition Banquet is an annual celebration which recognizes outstanding elementary educators and exemplary programs in Connecticut's elementary schools. Click here for additional information and a registration form.
Students
Leadership Program
Each year, CAS hosts two leadership conferences to provide elementary students with opportunities to develop the skills needed to be effective leaders. These annual events engage students in a variety of activities designed to foster leadership skills such as conflict resolution, problem solving, decision making and communication. These conferences also include workshops for the parents of the student-leaders to assist them in fostering leadership skills in their child. For additional information about the leadership conferences, contact Lou Pear at lpear@casciac.org.Annual Elementary Arts Festival
The Connecticut Association of Schools, through its Elementary Arts Recognition Festival, honors annually two outstanding students, in the highest grade level of each of the elementary schools of our state...- Who have excelled in the areas of visual or performing arts,
- Who exhibit high levels of citizenship and cooperative skills.
Click here to read about the successful arts festivals of year's past:
Schools
- Elementary School of the Year
- Exemplary School Climate Practices Recognition
- Thomas R. Flanagan Student Activity Memorial Grant
Elementary School Of The Year Program
The purpose of this award is to give public recognition to an outstanding CAS member elementary school that deserves major recognition for its exemplary programs in meeting the needs of elementary school students. The school chosen will receive recognition in the media, in CAS publications and at a CAS sponsored ceremony in their community as well as at the Elementary Program Recognition Banquet in November. The following criteria will be used to determine the recipient of this award:- School must be a member of CAS and:
a. Provide an educational program which is conducive to meeting the needs of all of its students.
b. Provide student opportunities that go beyond those that are part of a typical school, i.e. clubs, activities, support services, extra help for those who need it.
c. Show evidence that the school's educational programs are consistently being reviewed and improved.
d. Show evidence that the school welcomes participation from all constituencies.
e. Show evidence that the school plays an active role in the community.
f. Show evidence that the school welcomes parental involvement. - Each of the six criteria must be individually addressed. The total response must not exceed 10 pages (12 point font single spaced).
- A copy of the strategic profile must accompany the application.
- A copy of the student/parent handbook must accompany the application.
- The winning school will be invited to share exemplary practices and programs with other CAS elementary schools by offering CAS workshops, writing for the CAS Bulletin and/or welcoming visitors to their school.
- Deadline for submission of nominations is no later than August 23, 2013
- Nominations should be sent to: Regina Birdsell, Assistant Executive Director, Connecticut Association of Schools, 30 Realty Drive, Cheshire, CT 06410
Exemplary School Climate Practices Recognition
The Elementary Level Professional Studies Committee of the Connecticut Association of Schools is accepting applications for "exemplary school climate practices" status.Elementary level educators have long recognized the importance of positive climate in achieving success for all students. While described in many different ways, climate is in fact imbedded in almost all aspects of school life in schools that succeed. Schools seeking recognition will be asked to complete a self-assessment.
The assessment looks at indicators in five broad categories:
- Safe and healthy environment;
- A welcoming environment to students and visitors;
- Stakeholder involvement in planning and decision-making;
- Parent community and student involvement in the school;
- Active participation in a variety of programs.
CAS schools recognized for exemplary climate practices are:
- Chester Elementary School, Chester 2013
- Edna C. Stevens School, Cromwell 2012
- Naubuc School, Glastonbury 2012
- North Stonington Elementary School 2012
- Greene-Hills School, Bristol 2011
- Ivy Drive School, Bristol 2011
- MacDonough School, Middletown 2011
- Canton Intermediate School, Canton 2010
- Eastbury School, Glastonbury 2009
- Highland Park School, Manchester 2009
- John Trumbull Primary, Watertown 2008
- Frenchtown Primary School, Trumbull 2008
- Elmer Thienes-Mary Hall Elementary, Marlborough 2008
- John Lyman School, Middlefield 2008
Thomas R. Flanagan Student Activity Memorial Grant
Sponsored by Big Y World Class Markets
Thomas Flanagan was the long-term principal of Waterford High School, whose untimely death in June of 1979 brought sadness to all who had come to know and love this good man. Tom was a member of the Program Committee, the Basketball Committee and the Football Committee, but he was most closely identified with the CSAC during its years of transition and growth. He gradually began to change the direction of the Board from one that reacted to one that also created. His knowledge of CSAC responsibilities and the diligence and good humor he brought to his work were models for all of us.
Tom was also a highly respected member of the N.A.S.S.P. Standing Committee for Student Activities. In 1976 received C.A.S.' highest honor, a Citation.
Tom was a special person, a good person. The Thomas R. Flanagan Student Activities Memorial Grants are dedicated in his memory.
I. Sponsorship:
The Connecticut Association of Schools' Student Activities Board of Control sponsors these mini-grants, in accordance with Article II of its by-laws to "encourage" the development and effective operation of student activities other than athletes in member schools.
II. Objectives:
a. To stimulate the growth and improvement of student activities.
b. To provide recognition of outstanding student activities.
III. Mini-Grant Proposal Expectations:
a. The proposal must clearly indicate how the activity stimulates, broadens or improves student activities at the member school(s).
b. Activities being recognized must meet general CSAC guidelines for approved student activities.
c. Applications will be accepted only from C.A.S. member schools and/or C.A.S. recognized student activity associations.
d. Funding requests are held to a minimum of $200.00 and maximum of $1,000.00.
IV. Considerations:
All proposals meeting the above expectations will be evaluated on the following considerations:
a. The benefits to the participating member school(s) and/or community(ies).
b. The number of students involved in the activity (actual number and percentage of school's population).
c. The potential of the activity to continue.
V. Criteria:
a. The activity must be educationally sound, worthwhile and stimulating to the students and the school.
b. The activity must not place undue burdens or obligations on students, their families, teachers or school.
c. The activity shall not be commercial or sectarian in nature; nor shall it offer propaganda or advertisement for any product, company or organization.
d. The activity must not exclude any student because of race, handicap, creed or sex.
e. The activity must be well planned and organized and must provide for the adequate supervision and welfare of participating students at all times.
f. Awards and prizes for the activity must be adequate in number and quality.
g. The activity shall not be a contest.
h. The activity must be a new or creative idea going beyond traditional programs.
VI. Qualification Process:
a. Proposals recommended for final consideration may require an in-person presentation and review.
b. Groups or individuals receiving a grant may be required to provide a follow-up report describing how the grant funds are utilized.
Click here to download an application.
Miscellaneous
Distinguished Friend of Education Awards
The Distinguished Friend of Education Awards, established in 1983, honor a person and an organization or corporation for outstanding service to education in Connecticut.Individual Award
The individual shall:
- be a person from outside the field of elementary or secondary education.
- be a person who has no direct involvement in education through his or her employment.
- be a person noted for a strong contribution of education at the local, state, regional or national level.
- have made this contribution over an extended period of time, or an extraordinary contribution within a limited period.
The organization or corporation shall:
- have no direct involvement in education through the employment of its members.
- be noted for a strong contribution to education at the local, state, regional or national level.
- have made this contribution over an extended period of time or an extraordinary contribution within a limited period.
- Examples of eligible corporations or organizations would include Rotary, Exchange Club, Stanley Works, Pfizer Inc., etc.
Volunteers
The Volunteer Recognition Program
The Connecticut Association of Schools is proud to sponsor the Annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet. This exciting program publicly acknowledges the work of volunteers in our schools. The event is designed to bring recognition to those individuals who selflessly volunteer their time and expertise to their local schools and who consistently demonstrate their commitment and dedication to quality education in their communitiesThe banquet will be held at the Aqua Turf Club on Tuesday, March 12, 2013. Click here to download an invitation letter and registration form.