ALHS' Dr. Walker is Named Ohio Principal of the Year

Avon Lake High School Principal Dr. Joanie Walker made history last week after being named the 2013-14 Ohio High School Principal of the Year by the Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators (OASSA).

It is the second time Walker has earned the honor, making her the only principal in the state to win the award twice. She earned the honor in 2006, when she was the principal of Bedford High School.

“This time it’s special because I can celebrate with the staff and students,” Walker said. Walker was hired by Avon Lake in 2006 soon after she won the first time.

The OASSA, in conjunction with Metlife and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, awards one principal a year the honor after reviewing tenure, data and improvement of a school.

Walker said while the award is given based on the leadership required to improved a school, credit should also be given to the support she receives.

“They look at tenure and improvement, but a lot of it is hard work from the student to increase the scores,” Walker said. “I don’t look at this as just my award but as the school’s award.

“I get incredible support from teachers and parents.”

One of the most significant indicators is from the State Report Card’s performance index. Avon Lake’s has seen a rise from 107.9 in 2007   to  111.1 in 2012. This index is the highest in the school’s history.

Superintendent of Schools Bob Scott praised Walker.

"The Board and I are very proud of Dr. Walker," Scott said. "Being a high school principal has always been a demanding job and is even more so in 2013.  The level of expectations and accountability such as federal mandates, state mandates, career and college entrance requirements have never been higher.

"Dr. Walker works diligently with staff, students, and parents to meet the needs of every student. We are excited that Joanie has received this honor, it is well deserved."

Walker, who has extensively studied school climate, said there were huge differences moving from an urban setting in Bedford Heights to the suburban district of Avon Lake.

Walker has made several changes since taking over as principal including replacing the traditional bell system with music and taking a proactive stand against bullying.

Walker will be honored at leadership symposium in Washington, D.C. in the fall.