The Litchfield Elementary School District is thrilled to announce that Amanda Acosta, Principal of Barbara Robey Elementary, has been awarded the Maricopa County School Superintendent's Exemplary Principal Award. This prestigious honor celebrates Principal Acosta's outstanding leadership and her transformative impact on both the academic performance and culture at Barbara B. Robey Elementary.

Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson praised Principal Acosta's achievements, stating, "It is an honor to recognize Amanda Acosta as an Exemplary Principal. Amanda is a human-centered and transformational leader who has implemented systems and strategies to turn around both the academics and culture at Barbara B. Robey Elementary. She is genuinely gifted in human capital leadership, seeing the potential in everyone, and skillfully supporting and connecting people to grow individually and collectively. She prioritizes culture as a driving force in student and teacher success, and as a result of her thoughtful leadership, the staff refers to their campus as the 'Hallmark' school, a happy place to come to learn and work every day."

Superintendent Watson highlights the importance of leaders like Principal Acosta, who understand the critical link between a thriving school culture and high levels of student achievement and teacher retention. These leaders strategically nurture school environments where the voices of teachers and students help set and realize the school's vision. They lead schools where students excel academically and teachers are inspired to remain at the school and in the profession.

Recipients of the Exemplary Principal Award undergo a rigorous evaluation process, which includes a superintendent nomination, an application, teacher surveys, a video interview, a site visit, and an extensive data review. The criteria for selection focus on the principal's 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

- Successfully develop and inspire others

The award was presented during a surprise event, underscoring the genuine appreciation and admiration for Principal Acosta's contributions to her school and community.