Mars Estates Elementary’s Kelly O’Connell has been named 2020-21 Elementary Principal of the Year
O’Connell is in her fourth year as principal at Mars Estates Elementary and her 18th year with BCPS. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in human resources school leadership from Towson University. She refers to students as #MarsStars, and that social media hashtag is regularly used to celebrate school and community achievements.
“This award is not just about me, it’s a reflection for everyone at Mars Estates Elementary,” O’Connell said. “It’s about teachers, students, and families and doing what is right for all kids.”
During several recent virtual school staff meetings, BCPS Superintendent Dr. Darryl L. Williams surprised three Baltimore County school administrators with an unexpected but great announcement.
Woodlawn Middle’s Rochelle Archelus is the 2020-21 Middle School Principal of the Year; and Kenwood High’s Brian Powell is the 2020-21 High School Principal of the Year.
“We have encountered many unexpected challenges this year, but I am so proud of how these Principals of the Year rose to the occasion,” Williams said. “They are champions of their school communities and have shown exceptional leadership.”
Principals of the Year are typically announced during the annual Teacher of the Year celebration each spring. Because of the school closings this year, however, the announcement was made during the online staff meetings for each principal’s school.
The Principal of the Year selection process began this year with an opportunity for community members to nominate school leaders. BCPS received 3,905 community nominations, which were considered by the Principal of the Year selection committee led by administrators from the Office of Organizational Effectiveness. This was also the first year in which both a middle and a high school Principal of the Year were chosen; in past years, only elementary and secondary honorees were selected.
