Principals Alvig, Franks honored

The Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA) honored Dr. Kathleen Alvig and Joan Franks, two Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) principals, during its annual three-day convention—Institute 2008: Changes, Challenges, Connections—that took place on Feb. 6 -8 at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel.

Alvig, principal at Northrop Urban Environmental School, has been named 2008 Science and Mathematics Elementary and Middle Level Principal of the Year by MESPA. The award, presented through a partnership with the Science Museum of Minnesota, recognizes one principal annually for his or her creation of a school-based culture that fosters science and mathematics learning and literacy.
In choosing the 2008 Science and Mathematics Elementary and Middle Level Principal of the Year, MESPA sought a nominee who supported professional development, engaged in active partnerships with other organizations and families, and used creativity to engage students in math and science both inside and outside the classroom.

Franks, principal at Armatage Community and Montessori School, received a MESPA Division Leadership Award. Division Leadership Awards are presented annually to principals in each MESPA geographic division who demonstrate effective leadership that benefits their school, their community and their profession. Franks is also a finalist for MESPA’s Minnesota National Distinguished Principal Award, which annually recognizes one principal in each state for facilitating educational excellence and will be granted in May.

Alvig and Franks accepted their awards at the MESPA Institute Awards Banquet on Feb. 7.