Johnson City Principal Selected as NYS High School Principal of the Year

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Kimberly Beukema

ALBANY, NY (03/27/2015)(readMedia)-- ALBANY, NY – The School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS) has selected Kimberly Beukema, principal at Johnson City High School, as the New York State High School Principal of the Year. This award is given annually to a member of SAANYS who has set the pace, character, and quality of education for the students in his or her school. Nominees are administrators who are committed to students, parents, and the community and have shown exceptional contributions to the educational process.

Despite a steady increase in the community's poverty rate, graduation rates continue to rise due to the dedication of the high school team led by Beukema, who has been principal at the high school for the past four years. Beukema leads her school in the targeted use of data to drive student growth at multiple levels. Data is valued and analyzed to identify and assist students at-risk, to develop action plans for Regents-level success, and to direct professional learning for teachers.

Commented Superintendent of Schools Mary Kay Frys, "With 67 percent of our students receiving free and reduced lunch, it would be easy for staff to believe that a high school diploma or educational excellence would be out of reach for many. However, this belief is non-negotiable for Ms. Beukema...Each year, she ramps up her targets for graduation and closely monitors her students' progress. This year, Kim has set 90 percent as her target graduation rate. Is it ambitious? Yes. Do I believe she can do it? Absolutely."

Student success also flourishes due in no small part to this leaders' commitment to every student. An example of this is the "Just Take One" program Beukema implemented at the high school. Beukema asks that each teacher commit to following one student's academic progress in all courses. This mentoring includes working with guidance counselors on attendance, discipline, accountability, and other factors that contribute to overall success. And the teaching staff is happy to follow Beukema's lead. Commented teacher Joanne Matias, "Her love for the students is reflected by her ability to never stop believing in their ability. Once you work with her you can't help but carry on her mission for every student to become a successful learner."

Kimberly Beukema fights for her kids. She has been known to pick students up for school and find others clothing and housing – supporting students and families in many ways so that all students have a chance at success. Noted colleague Robert Fauver, "When Ms. Beukema learned of the financial needs of our students ... she arranged for staff outings where the proceeds would benefit students. Fundraisers have been used to buy mattresses for students who slept on the floor and to pay down the dorm payment fee prior to the students receiving their financial aid awards. Ms. Beukema's stubbornness is driven by her passion for each student to succeed."

Beukema received her bachelor's degree in elementary education with a concentration in English, and her masters in education from the State University of New York College at Cortland, and her certificate of advanced study from the Massachusetts College of the Liberal Arts.

Beukema will be honored for her accomplishments at an awards ceremony on May 8 at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Albany, New York.

SAANYS represents nearly 7,200 school administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing 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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