The Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA) recognized David Branch, principal of Lucy Craft Laney Community School, Minnesota Special School District #1, with the 2011 MESPA Division Leadership Achievement Award. Principals are responsible for a school’s instructional, school culture, and resource leadership. The award honors principals whose exemplary leadership and sustained efforts have made noteworthy contributions to the operation of effective school learning programs --  improving education, their communities, and their profession. He will be recognized by colleagues statewide on February 10, 2011 at the MESPA Awards Banquet – held at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel during the annual MESPA Institute, the statewide convention of Minnesota’s elementary and middle level principals.

In his principalship, Branch follows the philosophy of several influential leaders.

“We’ve talked about it, we know about it, but we haven’t done enough about it.  And this status quo is morally inexcusable, it is economically indefensible, and all of us are going to have to roll up our sleeves to change it.” – President Barack Obama

“There is frequently a chasm between what we know to be the best action and what we do. The connecting tissue is often the courage to act. “ – Blankenship (Failure is not an Option)

Branch was nominated by Joan Franks, principal at Armatage Montessori School in the Minneapolis Public School District, who stated: “David has done an exceptional job of leading the Minneapolis Principal’s Forum through some difficult times including the transition of a new superintendent, negotiations, and new policies and procedures that have directly impacted the role and responsibilities of principals. He is deep thinking, articulate and fair in his assessment of the work we do. David understands the critical nature of staying current in district politics and the importance of communicating pertinent information to his colleagues…On a more personal level, David is humorous, approachable and a great advocate for his school as well as the Minneapolis Public Schools. He is deserving of this honor and does an outstanding job representing Minneapolis principals.”

To read more about David and the award, click here.