IOWA STATE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION
For release: May 16, 2008
Contact: Lana Oppenheim Schlapkohl, 515-471-8026; or
             Bruce Lear, 712-252-2419

Sioux City Superintendent is honored by Iowa's teachers

Sioux City school disrict Superintendent Larry Williams has been honored by the Iowa State Education Association (ISEA) with its prestigious TEAM Award which is presented each year to a school administrator who works to promote collaboration and teamwork among all educators.

"Larry Williams epitomizes the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that the ISEA TEAM Award represents," ISEA President Linda Nelson said. "He respects all staff members and treats them as valued professionals."

Since first coming to Sioux City nine years, ago, Williams has clearly demonstrated the difference between being just a manager and being a true leader. Over the years, his open-door style and commitment to shared decision making has led to a new spirit of trust and cooperation throughout the school district. He has made sure that staff members had a place at the table while -- not after -- critical decisions were made.

Williams was nominated for the honor by the Sioux City Education Association (SCEA) and the Sioux City Education Support Professionals Association (SCESPA).

"Certainly there are times when the Associations disagree with decisions made by the superintendent, but there is never a time when we cannot have an open discussion about how the decisions will impact children and employees," wrote SCEA President Donna Walsh and SCESPA President Leslie Dake in nomination papers.

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The ISEA is a professional association made up of nearly 33,000 educators who are dedicated to promoting and preserving quality public education for all students. Great education -- it's an Iowa basic!