Holzerland Honored for Contributions to Education

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Holzerland, Mary

ALBANY, NY (04/08/2008)(readMedia)-- Mary Holzerland, assistant principal of the Transit Middle School in the Williamsville School District in East Amherst, has been selected as the 2008 recipient of the James E. Allen Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS).

James E. Allen, a pillar of educational leadership who served as commissioner of education in New York State, was known for his strong support of secondary school administrators. This award is given annually to a SAANYS member who is a secondary school administrator, supervisor, or coordinator who has given significant contributions to education and leadership at the secondary school level and service to the community and professional organizations including SAANYS.

In a letter of recommendation, Jill Pellis, principal at Transit Middle School, describes her as having “that tireless, old-fashioned work ethic to see a job through to completion, making sure every report, every student schedule, every teaching assignment, and every event is perfect. She is, indeed, a principal’s dream teammate.” She is highly regarded in the community for her endless hours of volunteer service and committee work. In addition, she is respected by students, staff, and parents as a woman of integrity, honesty, sincerity, and loyalty.

A fellow administrator notes of Holzerland, she “goes above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to helping children . . . she attends almost every event to cheer on the teams, assist the PTSA or a student club, and provide a safe environment for all.” She is an active member of SAANYS and takes advantage of professional development opportunities offered throughout the year by the organization.

Holzerland will be recognized for her achievements at an awards ceremony on May 9, 2008 at the Gideon Putnam Hotel in Saratoga Springs, New York.

SAANYS represents more than 6,900 school administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to provide direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

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