BOE Chair Wins 2018 Game Changer Award

From CCSD: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower on Thursday night surprised the second 2018 winner of his annual awards for instructional excellence!

Dr. Hightower presented a “Superintendent’s 2018 Game Changer Award” for Instructional Advocacy to School Board Chair Kyla Cromer during the Board’s regular meeting, which came to a halt as the audience rose for a standing ovation.

“She’s all in for public education,” Dr. Hightower said of Ms. Cromer, as her presented her with a special plaque and a bouquet of roses.

He praised Ms. Cromer, now in her fifth year on the School Board and her fourth year as its countywide-elected Chair, for treating the part-time role as a full-time passion. She not only leads Board meetings, but is a regular presence (and cheerleader) at CCSD and school events and celebrations, meets with Dr. Hightower and senior staff to stay informed of CCSD progress and education trends, advocates for CCSD and public education at the State level and is ever willing to listen to her community. A former classroom teacher and longtime PTA leader, Ms. Cromer is known and respected for her understanding of best instructional practices and support for continuous improvement of the teaching profession.

“The kids, if they could see it all, would be amazed by her advocacy. She gives for them,” Dr. Hightower said. “We’re so proud of her leadership.”

Ms. Cromer won the Instructional Advocacy award, which can be earned by a CCSD employee of community member. It’s one of the four categories of the “Game Changer Awards” that Dr. Hightower began last school year presenting annually in the spring and which he describes as CCSD’s “premier awards.”
The other categories are: Instructional Leadership, which recognizes a Principal or CCSD administrator, and earlier this week was presented to Avery ES Principal Dr. Lisa Turner; Instructional Excellence for a classroom teacher; and Instructional Support for an employee with a support role.
Ms. Cromer, who said she was surprised and honored by the award, thanked CCSD’s students and employees for their dedication and successes and thanked her fellow School Board members for their support.
“I work with the best Board in the State of Georgia and maybe the nation,” Ms. Cromer said. “I’m proud to represent you.”

Images via CCSD