It was a special celebration on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, as Chaparral Elementary School Principal Kara McDivitt was surprised with the Exemplary Principal Award from the Maricopa County School Superintendent's Office! Each year, Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson visits school districts across Maricopa County to recognize principals who create school cultures where students and teachers thrive! "It is an honor to recognize Kara McDivitt as an Exemplary Principal," Watson said. "Kara is a mission-driven leader with an unwavering commitment to student growth. She has created an environment inclusive of high expectations, collective efficacy, and collaborative decision-making where students, teachers, and the community feel valued and inspired."

To qualify for the award, recipients undergo a rigorous evaluation involving a nomination from their superintendent, an application, teacher surveys, interviews, site visits and extensive data review. School leaders are chosen for the award based on their ability to actively engage staff, parents, and community members in developing an effective school culture, utilize data to guide instruction and decisions regarding staff development, consistently demonstrate high teacher retention, and successfully develop and inspire others.

To watch the full celebration, please visit: https://youtu.be/43Zo3ilU5Ik. Congratulations to Principal McDivitt! The WESD Family is so proud of her!