Alumni among Arizona’s exemplary principals

Six Northern Arizona University graduates were among 10 individuals chosen as Rodel’s Exemplary Principals for 2012.

The 10 winners’ names were released this week as part of the Rodel Foundation of Arizona’s annual initiative to recognize school leaders. Rodel selected the winners from 15 finalists known for inspiring their staff to focus on student achievement through effective teaching and management that contributes to the overall success of the institution.

Carrie Prielipp, principal at Sunset Ridge Elementary, andĀ Christine Hollingsworth, principal at Acacia Elementary, both NAU alumnae who made the cut as finalists for 2011, have earned the honor of Exemplary Principals this year.

All of the principals work in high-need schools in Maricopa, Pima, Pinal and Yavapai counties. The winners each receive a $5,000 savings bond and the role of mentoring three aspiring principals.

NAU’s College of Education works with the Rodel Foundation as part of its initiative to boost student achievement by pairing exemplary teachers in high-poverty schools with promising student teachers.

Of 15 individuals named Rodel Exemplary TeachersĀ last month, seven were NAU alums.

Listed below are NAU alumni named Rodel Exemplary Principals for 2012, degree earned from NAU, the school they currently lead and the city it is located in:

Jim Brunenkant, master’s in educational leadership, Flowing Wells High School, Tucson
Rebecca Henderson, master’s in educational leadership, Harris Elementary School, Mesa
Christine Hollingsworth, master’s in educational administration, Acacia Elementary, Phoenix
Jennifer Murrieta, master’s in educational leadership, Desert Willow Elementary School, Casa Grande
Carrie Prielipp, master’s in educational leadership, Sunset Ridge Elementary School, Glendale
Alexis Wilson, master’s in educational leadership, Griffith Elementary School, Phoenix

Additional finalist principals are:

Chris Knutsen, master’s in educational leadership, Florence High School, Florence
Juli Tate Peach, master’s in educational leadership, Alice Byrne Elementary School, Yuma

Meet all of the Rodel Exemplary PrincipalsĀ here.