Each year the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) recognizes school leaders across the state of California who represent the dedication and commitment to public education. This year ACSA recognized two school leaders who have been a part of the ART of TEACHING Cohort.
Elementary Principal of the Year was awarded to Margaret Lynch, Principal at Juan Cabrillo Elementary School in Wiseburn Unified School District. The fellowship cohort of Juan Cabrillo Elementary recently finished their two year fellowship with the ART of TEACHING. Under Mrs. Lynch’s leadership, Cabrillo has received countless awards and accomplishments including the California Distinguished School (2012), Title I Achieving School (2012), and the Gold Ribbon School (2015). Superintendent Tom Johnstone praises, “Margaret is a hands on leader who works closely with the entire school community to ensure consistency, rigor and caring for all students.”
Instructional Leader of the Year was awarded to Laurie Baccus, Chief Academic Officer at Whittier City School District. Mrs. Baccus has served as Principal, Director and Assistant Superintended of Instruction for WCSD. According to Superintendent Ron Carruth, her leadership contributed to the Great Schools organization’s recognition of the district for academic growth. Great Schools identified WCSD “as one of the top five school districts” in the State of California and is the only district in that group to serve a predominately Hispanic population.