SPRINGFIELD — Lifetouch Inc., GEBBS, and the Illinois Principals Association (IPA) encourage all communities in Illinois to celebrate Principal Appreciation Week Oct. 22-26, and culminate with Principal Appreciation Day on Oct. 26. This state-endorsed recognition was first approved by the governor of Illinois in 1990 and is annually celebrated.

“Very few individuals have the ability to impact a student’s life like our educational leaders do every day,” said Aaron Hill, president of the Illinois Principals Association. “The overall operation, vision and success of a school lies directly with the building administrator. All building administrators work tirelessly to ensure the success of our schools and to make sure our students are provided every opportunity to succeed. I encourage everyone to observe Principal Appreciation Day as our educational leaders deserve recognition for their dedication to our students.”

“Research has proven that the building principal’s impact on student achievement is second only to that of the classroom teacher when considering school based factors,” said Jason Leahy, IPA executive director. “Principals and educational leaders impact students’ lives in a significant way. Speaking as a former principal and having visited dozens of schools throughout Illinois, the quality of a school’s learning environment and the ability of a school to do what is best for its students comes as a direct result of the leadership provided by the school’s principal and leadership team. Courageous leadership is essential to effectively educate students and work to provide the resources and support they need to be successful in the 21st Century.  It is important that we recognize and encourage our schools’ leaders.”