Dr. West Named Lakes Region Elementary School Principal of the Year
Gurnee, IL - The Illinois Principals Association (IPA) has selected Dr. Lisa West of Woodland District 50 as the Lake Region Elementary School Principal of the Year!
Dr. West has been part of the Woodland community for nine years. She is currently in her first year as the principal at Woodland Intermediate, and prior to that she has served as the principal at Elementary East, and three years as an assistant principal at Intermediate.
Upon receiving the news, Dr. West said, "Being nominated and selected as IPA's 2020 Lake County Elementary Principal of the Year is an honor I share with all of those dedicated educators who make a difference in the lives of students each and every day. I am humbled by this recognition. Thank you to the Illinois Principal Association for your support and leadership."
According to the IPA announcement, Dr. West was selected for this award because she excels in influencing positive changes in curriculum, instruction, and assessment. She is a leader in instructional improvement efforts within the district, and she has the ability to motivate others in a positive and caring way.
Dr. Lori Casey, Superintendent of Woodland D50 explained, "Dr. West is an exceptional leader whose drive for academic excellence for ALL children pairs perfectly with her caring heart and strategic mind. Throughout her time with Woodland, she continually brings a positive focus to doing what's best for the children and families in our school community. Lisa deserves this recognition and we are proud of her achievement!"
Dr. West displays confidence and knows the value of shared leadership. In her leadership roles, she gives students and colleagues opportunities to develop and shine, mentoring them first and then stepping back to allow them to take initiative and lead. This leadership style aptly reflects the teacher in her. In addition to being an exceptional leader, Dr. West is a strong advocate for students.
This award comes during a year when she has stretched her leadership skills to new lengths as a principal during a global pandemic. She helped guide her staff and students through the transition to Remote Learning, and has worked continuously throughout the year to eliminate barriers and strengthen the home to school connection. Her professionalism is perfectly paired with her compassion, and she enthusiastically contributes her very best each day to #LifeintheW.