Jeralan Kannady greets his students and parents before school during student drop off.
By: Kristyn Hunt Cathey , APR – Director of Communications
Principal Props, one of the district’s many celebratory programs, concluded its second year on a high note. Created in 2022, Principal Props highlights what is great about Goose Creek CISD through innovative methods campus leaders use to keep their students, staff and stakeholders motivated. Along with kudos, the winners receive a specially designed “Principal Props” lapel pin and a one-on-one lunch meeting with Dr. Randal O’Brien.
Kathy Holland, principal of Goose Creek Memorial High School, was the first Principal Props winner this school year. Recognized during the October principal’s meeting, Holland is her campus’s biggest cheerleader and uses every opportunity to shine the light on her students and staff. Whether zipping through the hallways on a scooter or cheering on students in academic or athletic competitions, Kathy is a proud GCM Patriot through and through.
Maria Rosas Gonzales of Lamar Elementary School was the second award winner. Lamar’s Walk to School Day was a huge success; bringing families and staff together to commit to safe walking, biking, or rolling to school. Maria will retire at the end of the 2022-2023 school year.
Leah Abbate of Alamo Elementary School won the third award of the year. Leah was recognized for her many efforts to increase parent and community involvement through exciting and engaging outreach programs, which she rarely missed.
Alicia Brooks, principal of the Virtual Academy, was the fourth award winner. She was recognized for using state-of-the-art technology to encourage her students to remain as active as possible. Whether it’s through computer software or iPad apps; Alicia ensures her students will be 21st century successful.
Kelley Start of Stuart Career Technical High School was the fifth award winner. Her students and staff are some of the busiest in the district. Kelley was recognized for working diligently with the business industry to provide opportunities for her students.
Adrienne Tesar of the Shelia C. Liles Early Learning Academy was the sixth award winner. Adrienne was honored for the facilitating the many tours of her Early Learning Academy. Visitors from across the state and beyond frequently visit the campus to view the Fueling Brains curriculum and its many successes with young students.
Jeralyn Kannady of Cedar Bayou Junior School earned a spot on the Principal Props team again this year as the seventh winner. He stands at the front door of his campus every day; ushering students in with catchy songs and music from his boombox to get them energized and ready to tackle the day. He also partnered with a local sorority to plant a garden on the campus. CBJ, along with their Partner in Education, ExxonMobil of Baytown, were awarded the 2023 Partner of the Year Award during the Partners in Education luncheon in April. They won the award last year as well.
And rounding out this year’s winners was Michelle Duhon, principal of Gentry Junior School. She was the eighth and final winner for the 2022-2023 school year. Michelle was responsible for Austin Elementary School becoming an Apple Distinguished Campus and will complete the process for Gentry Junior School as well before she retires at the end of this school year. This distinction is only given to select educational institutions and with Michelle’s help, the district will add another campus under its belt!
No matter the challenge, our campus principals always answer the call. It is because of their leadership that our district remains one of the best. We look forward to more Principal Props next year!