FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE N.R. #58, 11/10/99
Date: November 10, 1999
Contact: Irene Cromer
(703)791-8720
DARCI WHITEHEAD-SCANLON IS NAMED DISTINGUISHED EDUCATIONAL LEADER
Darci Whitehead-Scanlon, principal of Montclair Elementary School in Dumfries, is the recipient of the 1999 Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leadership Award for Prince William County. The program recognizes an outstanding principal from each of the metropolitan area school districts and one representing private schools in the D.C. area. Other County principals who were nominated by their school communities for the Post award are: Sandra Carter, Rockledge Elementary School; Carolyn Haley, Triangle Elementary School; Roger Dallek, Gar-Field High School; and Robert Stine, Woodbridge Middle School.
The nomination materials and letters of support for Darci Whitehead-Scanlon describe her "Children First" crusade. Before making any decisions, she asks, "How will this benefit the children?" Staff, parents and children have adopted her "Personal best" philosophy. Montclair Elementary School students often boast and compare lifeskill tickets earned for demonstrating responsibility, initiative, effort, perseverance and other efforts.
Under Whitehead-Scanlon’s leadership, Montclair Elementary School has become the home of the Reading Recovery behind-the-glass teacher learning facility. Whitehead-Scanlon’s approach to the delivery of instruction using multiple intelligence and brain compatible learning strategies allows students to demonstrate competence and achievement, thus fulfilling their potential.
School programs include the bi-weekly TV production of Monty’s News, a Principal’s Advisory Committee, Monty’s Red Wing Press and Quill and Scroll. Whitehead-Scanlon dresses up as "Monty," the school cardinal mascot, and amuses those around her. She started the "New kid on the block" to ease the transition of new students. Agenda books used by students in grades 1-5 keep the lines of communication open between home and school.
The Prince William County School Board will honor Whitehead-Scanlon and the other award nominees at a reception on Tuesday, November 23 at the School Board Administration Complex at Independent Hill.
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