FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, December 16, 2008
BOWIE, MD - Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), Bowie State University President Mickey L. Burnim, and Interim Superintendent of Prince George's County Public Schools Dr. William Hite held a press conference today to announce a new federally-funded Principals' Institute at Bowie State to train and certify Prince George's County educators who want to become administrators and to enhance the skills of those already in leadership positions. Rep. Hoyer secured $200,000 in federal funding for the program, which was established in cooperation with Bowie State, Prince George's County Public Schools and the Maryland State Department of Education. "The foundation of good schools lies with good leadership," stated Congressman Hoyer. "With the curriculum offered by this new initiative, Prince George's County educators will have access to the tools and training to develop as leaders in their schools. This collaboration between Bowie State University and Prince George's County Public Schools is a perfect example of how academic institutions and local school systems can work together to meet the needs of the community and strengthen the quality of education." The Bowie State Principals' Institute is an 18-month curriculum that will cover preparation for principal certification for elementary, middle/junior high and high schools in Prince George's County, as well as orientation to leadership and advanced professional development. Fifteen "student educators" have been selected to participate in the program. "The Principals' Institute is an important initiative and partnership between Bowie State University and the Prince George's County Public School System," stated Dr. Mickey L. Burnim, President of Bowie State University. "Together we will provide the training and resources needed to strengthen and enhance the skills of professionals who are already leaders to become principals in elementary, junior high and high schools in the county. We greatly appreciate Congressman Hoyer's assistance in securing the funds to support the program." "Prince George's County public school students will benefit from Congressman Hoyer's continuing support and our strong partnership with Bowie State University to train and develop instructional leaders for our schools," said Dr. William R. Hite, Jr., Interim Superintendent of Prince George's County Public Schools. "We look forward to offering an opportunity for outstanding educators to grow in their field and become future school leaders." About Bowie State University Bowie State University (BSU) is an important higher education access portal for qualified persons from diverse academic and socioeconomic backgrounds who seek a high quality and affordable public comprehensive university. The University places special emphasis on the science, technology, teacher education, business, and nursing disciplines within the context of a liberal arts education. For more information about BSU, visit the website at http://www.bowiestate.edu/. ###
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