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Terrel H. Bell Award

The Terrel H. Bell Award, named for the former U.S. Secretary of Education, recognizes outstanding school leaders and the vital role they play in overcoming challenging circumstances. Principals nominated for this award are school leaders committed to fostering successful teaching and learning at their schools. They are principals who do whatever it takes to help their students meet high standards and are committed to the notion that in educating America's children, failure is no option.

2011 Recipients:
  • Lauren Kinney, Principal, Sundance Elementary School, Beaumont, California
  • Traci Jackson, Principal, Shirley Hills Elementary School, Warner Robins, Georgia
  • Nichole Heyen, Principal, Lincoln Magnet School, Springfield, Illinois
  • Jack Spatola, Principal, Beacon School of Excellence, PS 172, Brooklyn, New York
  • Deirdra Gardner, Principal, Piedmont Open Middle School, Charlotte, North Carolina
  • Karen Daugherty, Principal, Rose Tree Elementary School, Media, Pennsylvania
  • Karen Noble, Principal, Hillcrest Elementary School, Nederland, Texas



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