Tyler Heights Elementary School Principal Julia Walsh has earned a Connected Leader Award from the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) for her work to mentor and coach school staff in ways that boost connectedness.
Walsh is one of 14 principals across Maryland to earn the award, which will be presented at the association’s annual conference next month.
"Integrity and trust are two of my core values, so I aim to foster a sense of belonging, collaboration and trust with students, staff and families,” Walsh said. “Leaning in to see things from others’ perspective is critical in education, and that connection contributes to a positive school culture. I believe that progress relies on the people, so it’s essential to remain connected to all the people making the difference and to the community we serve.”
Walsh is in her 10th year as principal at Tyler Heights and has served students throughout Anne Arundel County Public Schools since 2004. She has also been principal at Annapolis Elementary, and assistant principal at Germantown Elementary.
Chris Wooleyhand, Executive Director of MAESP and a former longtime principal in Anne Arundel County Public Schools, said connected school leaders are critical because of the impact they have on teams and organizations.
“They foster a culture of open communication and collaboration and cultivate honesty, integrity, and trust within their schools by consistently demonstrating those qualities themselves,” Wooleyhand said.