A Churchill County educator was recognized on November 13 as the Nevada School Boards Association Administrator of the Year at the organization’s annual conference.
Churchill County Middle School Principal Amy Word was nominated by the Churchill County School Board and selected by the NASB Nominations and Awards Committee for presentation.
“Amy is an accomplished learner – exemplifying all that we desire in our staff and students as we live out our mission to always learn to all,” said Summer Stephens, Churchill County School District Superintendent. “She understands how failure can lead to success by iterating over our work as part of the learning journey.”
The directors in their letter of appointment stated that Word is a consistent and positive example.
“Everything she does for the school district comes from one main idea – what’s best for our students,” the school board said.
Word, who began teaching as a special education teacher in 2000, served as deputy principal of Churchill County High School from 2009 to 2015, then was selected as principal of CCMS in 2015.
“I was surprised, shocked,” Word said upon learning of the award.
The determination of this award was based on improvement in school and student outcomes, unique contributions, effective professional development strategies for educational staff, and innovative and successful practices that resulted in increased student outcomes. in the school, district or state.
Trustees said his ability to lead a project, delegate to others with confidence and support, and learn were obvious reasons to be recognized for this award.
“Her ability to lead a project, to delegate to others with confidence and support, and to be a learner are incredibly admirable and clear reasons for being recognized for this award,” the school board said in its nomination. “She is a calculated risk taker, a collaborative and very thoughtful leader. Amy is what all directors should aspire to be.
Word said that during her tenure as Director, she was willing to change, implement learning strategies, and be flexible. Additionally, the appointment said Word works well with staff, students and parents; goes above and beyond for people; and spends many hours after work at school minding his own business.
“She will stop any task she is working on to speak with worried or upset parents and make sure they leave knowing that she is doing everything she can to deal with any concerns or issues,” the said. administrators.
During the last difficult school year, it was difficult to engage students and get them to come to school, but administrators said Word has gone out of its way to support its students and help them reach their goals. educational goals.
Despite these challenges from the coronavirus, Word said there was growth in education.
“What has improved is the way we look at the learner,” she said. “Students are very different from when I started,” she added.
Not only have the students changed, Word said the family has changed as well. She said education looks at the cultural part of the family and the social and emotional needs.
Word said she enjoys working with students and that when teachers have to leave their class due to illness or an appointment, she intervenes periodically.
“It’s fun to be with the kids,” she says.
“I was able to witness the enthusiasm she would show when students walked through the front door,” said CCMS secretary Becky Rossback. “Even if they were late, I would hear him say, ‘We’re glad you’re here. “”
Word said she believes in doing everything she can to help her students succeed. According to the school district, she has personally delivered access points to student hostels without Wi-Fi, works continuously with counselors to better understand students who need additional support, and effectively and quickly passes any information. that she gains from training and meetings with the district.