Washington High School Principals Recognized by DESE South Central Region

Two Washington High School principals were among the regional awards winners recently announced by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Dr. Frank Wood earned South Central Region Principal of the Year honors, while Dr. Kelle McCallum was named South Central Region Assistant Principal of the Year.

Over 40 public school districts make up the DESE South Central Region, with members meeting once a month at Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla.

Wood and McCallum were nominated and selected by fellow colleagues within the South Central Region.

“When you are responsible for 1,400-plus students, and you are engaged in daily supervision and leadership, it is a true honor to be recognized by your peers who are also in the trenches,” said Superintendent Dr. Lori VanLeer. “We are extremely proud of Frank and Kelle for the work they have done at WHS.”

Wood’s background in education is extensive. His resume features 27 years in the field as a teacher, coach and administrator, including the last five as principal at WHS.

“It is easy to have success when you have a wonderful staff and outstanding students,” said Wood. “I am blessed to have both at Washington High School.”

McCallum boasts 18 years of experience in education. She joined the Washington School District in 1998 and has served as an administrator at WHS for six years.

“I am honored to be recognized by the South Central Region and consider it a privilege to work at Washington High School,” said McCallum. “I share this recognition with the faculty and staff at WHS, the students, parents and community members.”

Under the direction of Wood and McCallum, the graduation rate at WHS has increased to 89.4 percent, three percent higher than the state average, with 74.9 percent of graduates attending a college or technical school.