Hallie Wells Assistant Principal, Beth F. Thomas, Wins Edward Shirley Award

Per MCPS: Beth F. Thomas, assistant principal at Hallie Wells Middle School, is the 2023 recipient of the Dr. Edward Shirley Award for Excellence in Educational Administration and Supervision. This prestigious award, given by the Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals (MCAAP), is presented annually to an administrator or supervisor who exemplifies outstanding leadership and accomplishments in purposeful leadership, instructional or systemwide leadership, human resources development, resource management, interpersonal skills, professional involvement, and community and stakeholder involvement.

In addition to her eight years of service in New York, Thomas has spent most of her educational career in MCPS. Over the last 28 years she has served as a special education teacher, special education resource teacher, alternative I teacher and administrator. In 2006, Thomas became an administrator at James Hubert Blake High School. When Hallie Wells Middle School opened in 2016, she was selected as the assistant principal and has served there since.

Thomas is known for her passion for all students. She exhibits high energy and commitment to ensure that each student receives instructional and social-emotional support that elevates their strengths. She tirelessly works with students, families, staff and administrator colleagues to keep students in the forefront of her decision-making.

She works to enhance learning for all students, especially those with unique needs. She creates a network of support within the school and with school partners to help students reach their full potential. Parents, administrators, students and staff all note the strong commitment Thomas displays through her “students first” approach when maximizing student learning and achievement. Once a student is with Thomas, she will follow that student’s educational career beyond the level in which she supported him/her.

Thomas holds high expectations where “all students and staff can learn, grow and improve.” She engages in courageous conversations with all stakeholders to remove barriers for

students provides love and care so students can see their own potential. This also applies to staff as she is seen as a “go-to person for others seeking professional growth.” Because Thomas regularly sees talent in others, she has advised and mentored staff to pursue career advancements within MCPS. Due to her calm demeanor, colleagues often seek her wisdom and guidance to problem solve.

When it comes to a student’s best interest, no problem is too small to receive Thomas’ attention. Thomas has the uncanny ability to bring “empathy, active listening and emotional intelligence” when she engages students, staff and parents. She brings calm to any situation with care. Thomas knows all of her students by name and is able to positively impact meetings due to her in-depth knowledge.

Thomas’ professional involvement within MCPS is broad and enables her to be an integral part of her school communities, past and present. During community events, Thomas is often seen networking with partners, parents and students and “bringing the fun.” As a result of her positive leadership, she has built a network of professionals, families and partners to serve the best interest of students. Colleagues see her as a lifelong friend.

With her strong belief that all students can achieve, students who receive special education services at Hallie Wells meet and exceed academic expectations and standards. Thomas motivates students and staff to see beyond a student’s potential when supporting their needs. She also galvanizes resources that help students succeed academically. Her relentless dedication to student success is the drive that feeds into the countless hours she spends organizing testing, school events and professional learning opportunities for staff. Parents, staff and students appreciate the instructional leadership she exhibits to remove barriers for students to reach success.

Along with other award recipients, Thomas will be honored at this year’s Champions for Children celebration on Monday, April 24, at BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown. She will also be recognized at MCAAP’s spring membership meeting on Wednesday, May 17, and at the Summer Leadership Conference on Thursday, June 22.