Mr. Whitwer Named Principal of the Year
by Carol Braun
March 18, 2008
On Thursday, March 13th, at the closing banquet of the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association state conference in Kearney, Mr. Stephen Whitwer, Southern High School Principal, was honored as the 2008 “State Principal of the Year.” Mr. Whitwer is retiring this year after completing his twenty-fourth year as principal at Southern. He was nominated for this award by Mrs. Margaret Michaelis, Southern School Board President.
During his tenure at Southern Principal, Mr. Whitwer has ben active in promoting technology “to enhance curricula and learning opportunities” for all students. He has been credited by other administrators for serving as their mentor not only for promoting technology in instruction, but for constantly working to improve learning opportunities for his students. He is known for his caring and heart for students, particularly for those who are at risk.
As chairperson of the district’s Safety Committee he has worked
tirelessly to promote safety and as a result of his efforts the
district has been commended by both the district’s insurance
provider and the Nebraska Association of School Board as “a model
of effectiveness.” Under his leadership Southern High School has
been renovated to meet the needs of handicap students and to create
a positive, safe learning environment. He has continually worked
with staff to identify safety issues and then has sought out the
resources to meet those needs.
Mr. Whitwer has worked with his staff to enhance the curricular
offerings and instruction strategies of his staff. This has been
noted in the Language Arts and Math curriculums. Beginning with the
2008-2009 school year there will also be an enhanced Social Studies
program for Southern students.
Outside of his school leadership, Steve Whitwer has been an active
part of the community for twenty-four years. For six years he was a
member of his church council and hass served as it president. Even
though his own children are grown and gone out on their own, Steve
Whitwer has remained a leader of the Blue River 4-H Club and uses
his knowledge and love for horsemanship to continue to mentor youth
to good, caring and productive citizens. He is currently an active
member of the Gage County Fair Board, which is a continuing
commitment throughout the year. He is a member of the Sons of the
American Legion and the Wymore Pride.
Mr. Whitwer Named Principal of the Year
Post your feedback on this topic here
| Date | Subject | Posted by: |
|---|---|---|
| 03/19/2008 | Congratulations Mr. Whitwer -well... | Donna Dorn |
