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Middle School Awards
Administrators
- Principal of the Year Program
- Assistant Principal of the Year Program
- William Cieslukowski Outstanding First Year Principal Award
Principal of The Year
TThe Principal of the Year Program, sponsored annually by the Connecticut Association of Schools, was established to bring recognition to exemplary school principals and to increase public awareness of the critical role that principals play in the education of our youth. The program recognizes outstanding middle and high school principals who have succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. These administrators have demonstrated excellent leadership skills, a commitment to their staff and students, service to their communities, and contributions to the overall profession of educational leadership.Each year nominations are solicited for a Middle School and High School 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 will be made in February of each year.
Both the middle and high school honorees will be recognized locally by CAS. They will also be honored nationally by NASSP and will represent Connecticut in the competition for National Principal of the Year, sponsored by NASSP and MetLife. (NASSP does not include elementary schools.) For additional information about the National Principal of the Year program, visit http://www.nassp.org/awards/09-01.cfm.
CRITERIA FOR AWARD
Collaborative Leadership
- Involves teachers, staff members, parents, students, and the community in achieving the goals of the school
- Provides direction or focus to achieve the school's goals as a member of the school's leadership team
- Models continuous professional growth
- Teaches, coaches, and assists others in professional development that focuses on student learning
- Balances management tasks with instructional leadership tasks
- Utilizes effective problem-solving techniques
- Improves teaching and learning by implementing programs and improvement efforts
- Observes, supervises, and evaluates teachers and instructional programs to maximize the learning opportunities for every student
- Analyzes multiple sources of data to improve instructional practices and outcomes
- Demonstrates knowledge of learning, teaching, research, and programs that maximize student performance
- Facilitates in developing and maintaining co-curricular programs that complement the curriculum while fostering students' academic success
- Assists in establishing and maintaining a positive school climate that reflects high student and staff morale
- Interacts professionally and tactfully with others
- Assists in creating structures that enable teachers to develop an appreciation for each student's abilities
- Acknowledges achievement or accomplishments of students and teachers
- Communicates effectively orally and in writing
- Models values, beliefs, and attitudes that inspire others to higher levels of performance
All candidates must be members of CAS and NASSP and have at least three years experience as a school principal.
The CAS Awards and Recognition Committee reserves the right to reject any and all candidates in a category if they do not fulfill the criteria for the award. In making its decisions, the Awards and Recognition Committee will consider each candidate's professional qualities as outlined in the application, his/her recommendations, and his/her professional contributions to CAS.
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 Virco, Inc. (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 Virco. For additional information about the National Assistant Principal of the Year Award, please visit http://www.nassp.org/awards/09-02.cfm.
CRITERIA FOR AWARD
Candidates should demonstrate success in the following areas:
Collaborative Leadership
- Involves teachers, staff members, parents, students, and the community in achieving the goals of the school
- Provides direction or focus to achieve the school's goals as a member of the school's leadership team
- Models continuous professional growth
- Teaches, coaches, and assists others in professional development that focuses on student learning
- Balances management tasks with instructional leadership tasks
- Utilizes effective problem-solving techniques
- Improves teaching and learning by implementing programs and improvement efforts
- Observes, supervises, and evaluates teachers and instructional programs to maximize the learning opportunities for every student
- Analyzes multiple sources of data to improve instructional practices and outcomes
- Demonstrates knowledge of learning, teaching, research, and programs that maximize student performance
- Facilitates in developing and maintaining cocurricular programs that complement the curriculum while fostering students' academic success
- Assists in establishing and maintaining a positive school climate that reflects high student and staff morale
- Interacts professionally and tactfully with others
- Assists in creating structures that enable teachers to develop an appreciation for each student's abilities
- Acknowledges achievement or accomplishments of students and teachers
- Communicates effectively orally and in writing
- Models values, beliefs, and attitudes that inspire others to higher levels of performance
- Assists in developing and maintaining dialogue with representatives of diverse community groups
All candidates must work in a CAS member school and have at least three years experience as an assistant principal (or the equivalent thereof).
To apply contact, kpacktor@casciac.org.
Teachers
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:
Middle Level Exemplary Educator
PURPOSEEvery middle level school in Connecticut has a number of outstanding professional educators, including classroom teachers, counselors and specialists. The purpose of this award is to give public recognition in Connecticut and nationally to a CAS member middle level educator who exemplifies the profession. 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 in her/his community.
ELIGIBILITY
CAS recognizes that outstanding middle level educators create a classroom and school environment appropriate to the needs of the early adolescent. The following criteria will be used to determine the recipient of this award. Please note, however, that past recipients are not eligible.
1. Candidate must be a practicing educator of a CAS member middle school who exhibits the following:
a. Demonstrates excellence in teaching;
b. Demonstrates involvement with students, staff, and parents in and out of the classroom;
c. Demonstrates leadership within the profession.
2. The candidate should be in at least her/his fifth year as a practicing middle school educator in Connecticut and in at least the third year in his/her present position.
3. Each of the three areas on the accompanying nomination document must be addressed individually. The total response is limited to six pages (exclusive of Nomination Title Sheet).
4. Nominations must be accompanied by three (3) letters of recommendation, by any persons who are qualified to judge the professional performance of the candidate. Either the nomination or one of the three letters of recommendation must be from the building principal. Incomplete nominations will not be considered.
5. Finalists will be asked to write a one to two page reflective essay about his/her beliefs, motivations and/or experiences as a middle level educator.
6. The successful candidate will also be invited to share her/his expertise at a CAS sponsored workshop and/or writing for a CAS publication. Sponsoring school district will be asked to release the Exemplary Educator for one or two school days for in-service and/or celebration activities.
Click here to download an application.
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.
Students
MIDDLE LEVEL SCHOOLS SCHOLAR-LEADER AWARDS PROGRAM
The Connecticut Association of Schools established the Scholar-Leader Banquet in 1985 to give public recognition to one boy and one girl from each middle level school in Connecticut who have distinguished themselves in scholarship and leadership in school and the community.The two Scholar-Leaders, their parents and school officials, up to a total of ten, are invited to attend a statewide awards banquet the first Monday in June. Each Scholar-Leader receives an award signifying the honor, as well as, an individual photograph commemorating the event. The Commissioner of Education and other dignitaries are included in the evening's program.
ANNUAL MIDDLE LEVEL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
The Middle School Student Leadership Conference is a CAS initiative to train middle-level students in leadership skills. Since its inception ten years ago, over 3,000 students in grades 6, 7, and 8 have participated in the day-long event. Each year, students participate in workshops designed to increase their skills in a number of leadership areas. The conference is also an opportunity for middle school students to meet other young community leaders and hear from recognized high school leaders who may act as role models. Led by teachers, administrators, youth offices, high school students and counselors from around Connecticut, students have opportunities to work in small groups. The workshops and small group activities are designed to give middle school participants the tools to become effective leaders in their communities.
This year's conference focused on fostering an accepting environment, learning about leaders in the community, and providing specific ways that students can exhibit leadership at school.
Participating schools are invited to apply for the Arthur Director Leadership Award for superior application of the conference themes.
ARTS IN THE MIDDLE
"Arts In The Middle" is an all-day conference for outstanding art students. Connecticut middle schools were invited to send four arts students and an art teacher to the first annual "Arts in the Middle" program, sponsored by the Hartford Art School of the University of Hartford.The event featured hands-on workshops taught by practicing artist from around the state. The goals of the program are to:
- Give statewide visibility to the fine arts and promote the arts among middle level students
- Provide opportunities for art students from diverse backgrounds to work together
- Offer middle level art students a high caliber artistic challenge
- Give art teachers an opportunity to create their own works.
Schools
- Arthur Director Leadership Award
- Middle Level School of the Year
- Exemplary Teaming Practices Recognition
- Exemplary School Climate Practices Recognition
- The Flanagan Mini-Grants
Arthur Director Annual Leadership Award
The Arthur Director Leadership Award Program is open to all schools participating in the Middle School Leadership Training Conference. This award, named for the founder of Connecticut Lighting Centers, is presented to the school that shows superior application of the concepts learned at the leadership conference. To be considered for the award, schools need to submit an application with supporting documentation (no more than 3 pages). Click here to download an application.Middle Level Outstanding School Of The Year
Nominations may be made by any present or former member of the school staff or by district central office personnelPurpose
To give public recognition in Connecticut and nationally to an outstanding
CAS member middle level school that represents the best in the profession.
The school chosen will receive recognition in the media, in CAS publications and at a CAS sponsored ceremony in their community.
Eligibility
The following criteria will be used to determine the recipient of this award.
1. The school must be a member of CAS and exhibit the following "Best Practices."
- Evidence of a safe and healthy school environment
- Evidence that the school involves parents and the community in supporting student learning and healthy development (Based on "Turning Points 2000","This We Believe" and "Breaking Ranks in the Middle.")
- Student services that go beyond those that are part of a typical school, i.e. clubs, activities, support services, extra help for those who need it
- Evidence that the school's educational programs are consistently being reviewed and improved.
- A researched based curriculum with appropriate assessment grounded in standards
- Instructional methods and strategies designed to prepare students to meet high standards
- Teaming practices that drive instruction
- Personalization of the school environment
- Collaborative leadership and professional learning communities
2. Previous winners may not apply for a period of five years and must clearly show significant change from the previous application. Finalists {schools receiving site visits} must wait until the third school year following the visit before re-applying. Schools not selected as finalists are welcome to re-apply at any time.
3. Each of the eight criteria listed above must be individually addressed in narrative form. The total response must not exceed 10 pages (12 point font/single spaced).
4. A copy of the strategic school profile must accompany the application (not included in the ten page application maximum).
5. A copy of the student/parent handbook must also accompany the application (not counted in the ten page application maximum)
6. The application will be judged solely on the printed application and requested documents. Please do not reference or send additional materials
Click here for an application.
EXEMPLARY TEAMING PRACTICES RECOGNITION
The Professional Studies Committee of the Connecticut Association of Schools is accepting applications for "exemplary teaming practice" status.According to the National Middle School Association's This We Believe, Successful Schools for Young Adolescents, "The interdisciplinary team of two to four teachers working with a common group of students is the signature component of high-performing schools, literally the heart of the school from which other desirable programs and experiences evolve."
The schools receiving recognition completed a rigorous self-assessment examining twenty-seven areas of school practice such as curriculum integration, collaborative decision-making, parent or community involvement and flexible grouping and scheduling. A team from CAS then visited the schools to verify and validate the assessment.
Schools found to have exemplary teaming practices are awarded a CAS Certificate and a three-year exemplary practices designation. As a service to other schools wishing to improve their teaming practices, award winners welcome inquiries and visitors:
- Albert D. Griswold Middle School
- Canton Middle School, Canton
- Chippens Hill Middle School, Bristol
- Dodd Middle School
- Mansfield Middle School
- Mystic Middle School
- Suffield Middle School
Schools meeting initial criteria will be visited by members of the CAS Professional Studies Committee to validate their findings.
EXEMPLARY SCHOOL CLIMATE PRACTICES RECOGNITION
The Professional Studies Committee of the Connecticut Association of Schools is accepting applications for "exemplary school climate practices" status.Middle 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:
- Canton Middle School, Canton
- Chippens Hill, Bristol
- Dag Hammarskjold School
- East Hartford Middle School
- East Lyme Middle School
- Eastern Middle School
- Hartford Magnet Middle School
- John Winthrop, Deep River
- Lyme-Old Lyme Middle Schoole
- Middle School of Plainville
- Mystic Middle
- Old Saybrook Middle School
- Sage Park Middle School
- Suffield Middle School
- Two Rivers Magnet School, East Hartford
- Western Middle School, Greenwich
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.
- 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 13, 2012. Click here to download an invitation letter and registration form.