Forward-thinking leader honored

School’s principal gets top award from statewide group, Franklin - There’s happiness in Franklin today. Elementary school principal Pat Pfeil has a new feather in her cap. She’s been named a Visionary Principal of the Year for New Jersey. And her colleagues at the school are very proud. In fact, they were the ones who nominated her. But the nomination took more than just their own glowing recommendations. Part of the application involved an essay written by the candidate herself. Getting that, said superintendent of schools Dr. Tom Turner, took a little “arm twising.” “I’m not one to toot my own horn,” Pfeil said. But, she became convinced that the application was worth it. Within a few weeks, the school got word that Franklin’s own was a finalist. Late last month, representatives made an on-site visit to the school. They interviewed Pfeil as well as some of the school’s teachers and some students. And, just last week, word came that she was chosen as elementary school principal of the year. Along with the glory comes a $3,000 gift to the school. An additional stipend will go to Dr. Pfeil. She has yet to determine what the money will be used for. “She was recognized for the good things she does,” said superintendent Turner. In choosing Pfeil, the National Association of Elementary Schools saw an administrator who gets involved in the classroom, in the day-to-day life of the school and in the community. A press release from the organization, reads in part: “Dr. Thomas N. Turner, attests that she has served the school and district with distinction, ‘turning a somewhat struggling traditional program into a vibrant, innovative, cutting-edge instructional system.’ He believes that ‘she has accomplished this over time by being an active listener and an unyielding believer in children and teachers.’” In explaining what she thinks led the selection committee to choose her, Pfeil said, “I’m hoping what struck their fancy was how much I truly love my job and the people I work with. The faculty are amazing and the people are wonderful.” Franklin Elementary School’s attitude may also have influenced the judges, she said. “The fact that we are growing, we look to change and we’re not satisfied with the status quo. If it’s working for us, that’s fine, but if we find something that’s better, or can reach our students better,” the district goes in that direction. “I’m very, very blessed because the teachers are very willing to learn something new... and to grow with the children.” Three other educators were recognized as “visionary leaders, the principal and vice principal from Tenafly High School and a social studies supervisor from the West Windsor-Plainsboro district.

We’re feeling euphoric about her being named Visionary Principal of the Year. Tom Turner Franklin Borough,Superintendent of Schools