North East ISD principal receives Terrel H. Bell Award for Outstanding School Leadership

Donna Newman, principal of Garner Middle School, in San Antonio's North East Independent School District, received the Terrel H. Bell award for Outstanding School Leadership at the 2009 Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony in Washington D.C.

Garner Middle School was named a Blue Ribbon School this fall. Newman was one of eight principals across the country to receive the award this year.

The Terrel H. Bell Award, named for the former U.S. Secretary of Education, recognizes outstanding school leaders and the vital role they play in overcoming challenging circumstances.

The late Secretary Terrel H. Bell held education as his highest priority. Principals chosen as Bell award recipients have transformed their schools; they have set high standards and expectations for all, including themselves.

Newman's selection was based on the school's application for the 2009 NCLB/Blue Ribbon School Award. The selection panel stated: "Dr. Donna Newman is an outstanding school leader who inspires, guides and sustains others; she is a leader willing to do whatever it takes to meet students' needs."