The Washington Post has named Jennifer Young, a principal at Dowell Elementary School (DES) in Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) as one of 20 recipients of the 2015 Distinguished Educational Leadership Award.
The metro area educators recognized were chosen by their school systems for demonstrated leadership abilities and a commitment to creating an exceptional educational environment for students, faculty and staff, among many other attributes.
Assistant Superintendent of Operations Diane Workman praised Ms. Young for being a leader in the school system and among her colleagues, saying, “Ms. Young is not afraid to question practices and always makes decisions based on the needs of her students. Her humor and pleasant, respectful approach are invaluable as she leads and manages a busy, dynamic school.”
After receiving her bachelor of science degree in elementary education from Salisbury State University in 1990, Young became a fourth and fifth grade science and language arts teacher. During that time, Ms. Young received her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Western Maryland College. After becoming a vice principal in 2002, Ms. Young was soon promoted to principal of DES and currently serves in that position. Ms. Young consistently explores new ideas with parents and colleagues and models professional growth by teaching, coaching and assisting others in professional development that focuses on student learning.
Winners will be honored during an award ceremony at The Post Tuesday, May 5 and receive a personalized trophy, a monetary award and mentions in The Washington Post Magazine and on The Post’s website.
The Distinguished Educational Leadership Awards were established in 1987 to honor principals who go beyond the daily responsibilities of their position to create an exceptional educational environment through dedicated leadership. The Post also named 20 recipients of the Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Awards, which were formed in 1983 to recognize pre-kindergarten-12 teachers who ensure students receive a high-quality education through first-class and creative instruction.
In presenting these awards, The Washington Post hopes to encourage excellence in school leadership and to contribute to the improvement of education in the Washington metropolitan area.
