Sarah H. Givens

Fellow 

This principal of Banneker Achievement Center, Gary, was determined to make her elementary school the “Number One” school in Indiana. Her goal was achieved this past year when Banneker, this K – 6th grade school of 468 students, celebrated its Five-Star status as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for the 2007-2008 year. The Indiana Four Star Awards Program was established to recognize schools that have demonstrated academic excellence and have placed in the upper 25% quartile in student attendance rates, mathematics and language proficiency scores. For the past 16 years, her school has been named a “Four Star” school for being among the best in the state for ISTEP scores. This award-winning administrator has been recognized by a resolution by the Indiana House of Representatives, and she has participated in discussions on education in Oxford, England. She maintains her desk in the hallway of the school and is constantly challenging students and faculty. The plaque and a $500 gift are sponsored by ArcelorMittal.