2 years ago
Four principals from East Tennessee received top honors from the state for their work in educating kids.
Linda Keck of Clairfield Elementary in Claiborne County, Principal Curtis Wells from Joppa Elementary in Grainger County, Principal Terry Frost at Copper Ridge Elementary in Knox County, and Principal Elisa Luna from Inskip Elementary in Knox County all received the special award.
"We are just elated," Principal Frost said. "I've been floating around on a cloud, and the staff has too."
Frost traveled to Nashville earlier in the week with some of her staff to get the award and share the moment.
"We know we have a fabulous school and a fabulous program going on," Frost said. "I just think it's reenforcing to my staff and students and parents that we are on the right path."
The award is measured by the Tennessee Value Added Assessment System.
It's based on three-year student gains in reading, language arts, and math.
"It's very fulfilling to feel like you've made a difference and to see the students succeed," Frost said.
She is among 18 principals honored by the Education Consumers Foundation for their work with the students.
"It's a lovely ending to the school year."
This was the third year in a row Principal Wells from Joppa Elementary received the award. It's the second time Principal Keck got it at Clairfield Elementary.
--with photojournalist Brian Holt
