ALBANY, NY (04/01/2011)(readMedia)-- Brian Brooks, elementary principal with the Palmyra-Macedon Central School District, has been selected as the 2011 recipient of the T. Walsh McQuillan Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS).

T. Walsh McQuillan served the children and educational leaders of New York State throughout his life. He was the fist person to serve in joint capacity as executive secretary to the predecessors of SAANYS and was an outstanding contributor to elementary education throughout his career. This award is given annually to a SAANYS member and administrator who has strong leadership skills and has made exceptional contributions to elementary education.

In accordance with the qualifications for this award, Brooks has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and has provided significant contributions to education. Colleague Danielle Dehm, elementary principal in the Victor Central School District where Brooks served as assistant principal, stated: ""Brian leads with confidence, by example, and most importantly, with verve to do what is right in the most difficult of circumstances."

Palmyra-Macedon Superintendent Dr. Robert Ike concurs, stating, "A culture of learning and a celebration of the child exists within Palmyra-Macedon Primary School because of Brian's devotion to servant leadership and an unwavering commitment to our earliest learners. Kids first is not just a catchphrase at Palmyra-Macedon Primary School, this belief is alive!"

When asked to summarize his educational philosophy, Brooks said, "Never lose focus of the education and development of the whole child. Empower people to believe in possibilities, challenge the status quo, and be willing to be the "first penguin."

Brooks has served the educational community for 15 years, has been a school administrator for 10 years, and has been in his current position for two of those years. Palmyra-Macedon Primary School is a K-2 rural elementary school with a total enrollment of 420. Brooks is a member of several professional associations and is active in the community. He is on the Nazareth College Alumni Board, works on the Wayne County Action Program, Headstart Education Advisory Committee, and Fairport Little League.

Brooks will be recognized for his achievements at an awards ceremony on May 6, 2011 at the Century House in Latham, New York.

SAANYS represents more than 7,200 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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Posted Friday April 01, 2011 at 02:48 pm by School Administrators Association of New York State
Last Updated Friday April 01, 2011 at 02:48 pm