M-DCPS ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL BEST IN THE NATION

Hilca Thomas, of Howard A. Doolin Middle School, recently was chosen as the best assistant principal in the nation by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. Described by her colleagues as “a woman with vision,” Thomas was named the 2008 National Assistant Principal of the Year for her work in motivating both students and faculty members to be lifelong learners.

As a curriculum assistant principal at Doolin Middle since 2000, Thomas has shown great leadership in collecting and analyzing student assessment data to identify a student’s weakness and assist teachers in tailoring instruction accordingly.  Thomas also has made collaboration with the school’s faculty, parents and students the core of her leadership.  M-DCPS Region Superintendent Janet Hupp notes that one of Thomas’ “most outstanding capabilities is her ability to interact and motivate all stakeholders.”  Doolin Middle’s Principal Eduardo Tillet believes it is Thomas’ hard work and leadership that helped change the school’s grade designation from a “C” to “an “A” in 2006.

In addition to her many accomplishments, Thomas authored and obtained a NASA Explore School Grant designating Doolin Middle as a NASA Explorer School.  The grant will give teachers the opportunity to be trained by NASA experts in science and mathematics.  Thomas also initiated a Robotics and Science Research elective class, which provides students with the opportunity to assist teachers in the preparation of science labs and learn research methodologies.

Last October, Thomas was among a group of M-DCPS principals and assistant principals to win five of six Outstanding Leadership Awards from the Florida Department of Education. These awards honored principals and assistant principals who have spearheaded initiatives to increase student performance, promote safe learning environments, and establish partnerships with parents and community members.

Thomas will be officially honored at a black-tie event in Washington, D.C. on April 19. The award includes a check for $5,000, which Thomas can use in her school or for professional development.