By AUSTIN DeFOOR – Public Relations Manager
Clarke County School District Superintendent Dr. Philip Lanoue has recently been named one of four finalists for the Georgia School Superintendent Association’s Superintendent of the year award.
CCSD Superintendent Dr. Lanoue has been nominated for his work on improving classroom performance. Photo by Carlo Nasisse.
Lanoue, as well as the other finalists from Georgia, will now complete an application to be submitted to the American Association of School Administrators to determine who will represent Georgia at the national level. Though an individual honor, Lanoue praises the district for his achievement.
“I am honored to be recognized by my peers, but I am most proud that the work of our district is recognized by others that believe all students can achieve,” Lanoue said in a Wednesday press release. “This is a district recognition that highlights the progress made by our students, through the support of parents and community members, and the commitment by our teachers and school leaders.”
Under Lanoue’s leadership, the Clarke County School District has undergone several reforms and other initiatives to increase student classroom performance. He was at the helm of projects including the Non-Negotiable Practices for High Student Performance, the Athens Community Career Academy, among others.
“This school district (CCSD) was in need of some improvement and it’s still a work in progress. The administration is taking us to place we ought to be going and that’s seeing more students graduate and have access to better jobs and educations. We are heading in the right direction because of these great leaders.” Clarke Central High School Counselor Sam Hicks said.
Lanoue’s leadership in pioneering these initiatives was noted by his colleagues.
“He is not a ‘desk superintendent;’ he is in our schools being a hands-on and effective leader.” Board President Charles Worthy said in the release. “Lanoue has done a super fantastic job in improving student achievement in the Clarke County School District.”
Lanoue’s leadership has changed the mindset of the entire district according to Board vice president David Huff.
“In the past it has felt like we have been playing defense in the (CCSD). Now it feels like we’re on offense,” Huff said.
