Recommendations to the Mississippi Department of Education Talent Pool are due by April 15.
Do you know a relatively new educator who is illustrative not only of our state, but also among the nation’s best? Whose lessons provide models for others? Who has distinguished him/herself above and beyond established top-quality professionals in many of our schools? Members of the talent pool are building-level personnel. They are typically classroom teachers with a minimum of five (5) years in the field of education and are recognized by peers and supervisors as unique in their leadership and results with students. Occasionally a principal or specialist is considered with a minimum of ten (10) years in the field of education. This years’ focus is elementary educators or educators that hold positions in elementary, grades K-5 with a bachelor’s degree conferred in December 2004 or later.
The State of Mississippi maintains a file of emerging classroom leaders that consists of a cadre of distinguished teachers and principals. These educators may be considered for membership on advisory boards and task forces as well as candidates for special recognition programs. Your recommendations will identify educators who will be of great value to your community and state and who may also ultimately receive recognition for their contributions and achievements.
We are very fortunate to have a rich base of veteran educators represented in our current talent pool. They have been and continue to be valuable resources in our state efforts. What is particularly lacking though is representation from educators relatively new to the profession who demonstrate unique instructional and leadership abilities. Such persons exhibit strong potential for professional leadership and have an inspiring presence that impacts students, colleagues, and community.
Please keep your recommendations confidential to others. Send the educator’s name, school district, and school name by April 15 to: Sandra Hilliard, Office of Teaching and Leading, at shilliard@mdek12.org. Contact number is (601) 359-3513.