2001 Principal Service-Learning Leadership Recognition Award Winners
Service-Learning Principal of the Year:
Mrs. Ida Polcari, Benjamin Banneker Middle School, Montgomery County
After some initial skepticism of the value of service-learning, Ms. Polcari has become an avid service-learning advocate whose commitment to her staff and students inspires them to implement meaningful service-learning projects. Her constant vigilance regarding her school's service-learning projects is fundamental in insuring that projects benefit the community, and meet curriculum objectives, which students reflect upon their experience. Part of her ongoing commitment is her obligation to review written descriptions of service-learning projects from her teachers so she can give motivational feedback on how to enhance the quality of the activities. She knows what projects are taking place in her school, asks students and teachers about the projects, and participates in many projects. She willingly expresses the benefits of service-learning with colleagues, including the fact that her initial skepticism has changed into complete support.Ms. Polcari is supportive of quality service-learning projects that positively influence students' achievement and enhance the curriculum. She encourages her teachers to use core learning goals and service-learning standards as guides for creative high quality service-learning projects. She promotes fieldtrips in her school that reflects meaningful service. She is especially interested in teacher organized activities that engage students in direct service which is linked with existing curriculum.
Ms. Polcari understands service-learning and places a high value on this kind of student and staff involvement. Giving of her own time lets students know that they are important and that their service really makes a difference in their school and community.
Honorable Mentions:
- Mr. David Booz, Century High School, Carroll County
- Mr. Gene Bridgett, Calvert High School, Calvert County
- Mrs. Donna Faith, Windsor Knolls Middle School, Frederick County
- Dr. James Hamilton, South River High School, Anne Arundel County
- Mr. Lyle Patzkowsky, Dulaney High School, Baltimore County
- Mrs. Carol Poe, Spring Ridge Middle School, St. Mary's County
- Mrs. Diane Rudolph, Perryville Middle School, Cecil County
- Mrs. Doris Shaw, Robert Poole Middle School, Baltimore City
- Mrs. Brenda Thomas, Wilde Lake Middle School, Howard County