Back in February, we told you about Elizabeth Jamison-Dunn. She’s the principal of Catalyst Circle Rock charter school in Austin. At that time, she had been nominated for a school leadership award by Teach for America.
Now comes news that Jamison-Dunn took the top prize for Outstanding School Leadership earlier this month.
Teach for America – a national nonprofit that places college graduates to teach in schools that are underserved – recognized Jamison-Dunn for her commitment to educational excellence, student success, plus exceptional leadership and commitment to equity.
“I am deeply honored to receive Teach for America’s Outstanding School Leadership Award,” Jamison-Dunn said in a statement. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our incredible students, teachers and families. Together, we are shaping a future where every child has the opportunity to succeed.”
“Elizabeth Jamison-Dunn exemplifies the kind of transformative leadership that changes lives,” said Catalyst Schools CEO Gordon Hannon in a statement. “Her dedication to her students, faculty and the broader school community is truly inspiring, and we are proud that TFA recognizes her with this award.”
In February, Jamison-Dunn was announced as a finalist for Teach for America Greater Chicago-Northwest Indiana’s annual Alumni of the Year awards.
Jamison-Dunn has worked at Catalyst Circle Rock since 2007, when the charter school opened, and became principal in 2015. The school serves over 500 students in kindergarten through eighth grade, most of whom live on the West Side of Chicago.
“I have worked really hard to try to do right by my school community,” Jamison-Dunn previously told Austin Weekly News. “My favorite part about my job is knowing that what I do matters, and it matters every day.”