Alumna Carolyn Johnston is National Distinguished Principal

SALISBURY, MD---Dr. Carolyn Johnston, who received her M.Ed. from Salisbury University’s Samuel W. and Marilyn C. Seidel School of Education and Professional Studies in 1977, will be honored at the White House in October as a National Distinguished Principal. The Maryland Association of Elementary Schools nominated the Fruitland Primary School principal for the award in May.

Johnston credits the network of working teachers in the Seidel School as one of the greatest influences on her career as an educator. “Networking is extremely important for educators,” says Johnson. “It allows you the opportunity to learn new ideas, discuss useful strategies and investigate current research in a collegial environment.”

James Dryden, executive director of the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals, noted the influence of networking in Johnston’s efforts: “A fellow principal characterized Carolyn as the lead learner of her school, constantly researching to improve her school’s program and consistently shares this information with colleagues.”

This year has been a banner year for graduates of the Seidel School. Emily Johnson Florence was named The Washington Post’s Agnes Meyer Teacher of the Year Award for Falls Church, VA. Maryland Teachers of the Year from the Seidel School include Anne Ridley in Dorchester County, David Bender of Garrett County, April Tyler of Somerset County and Brian Raygor of Wicomico County.

At Salisbury University some 6,800 students in 43 undergraduate and 11 graduate programs pursue liberal arts and professional degrees. Located on the Eastern Shore 30 miles from the Atlantic Ocean and 20 miles from the Chesapeake Bay, Salisbury is 2 ½ hours from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Norfolk, VA, and Wilmington, DE. Among its peers, SU is ranked in the top 10 public universities in the North by U.S. News and World Report.

For more information call 410-543-6030 or visit the SU Web site at www.salisbury.edu.