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Henrico County Public Schools officials named four staff members as recipients of the Chris Corallo Distinguished Leadership Award. The four recipients were surprised at their schools by family members and HCPS leaders and presented with the award by Amy Cashwell, HCPS superintendent. The four were chosen from a group of candidates nominated by their peers for their vision, passion, innovation and student-centered focus.
The 2019 recipients are:
• Kristen Cross, a librarian at Crestview Elementary School. Cross’ nomination cited her leadership in transforming the school’s library program and the many programs she has instituted. It also noted her leadership during the school’s wholesale renovation, spearheading the library’s move and reconstruction using an open design. (Cross is pictured celebrating the award with her family.)
• Charles Cuccherini, a biology teacher at J. R. Tucker High School. Cuccherini’s nomination described his ability to inspire students to engage in the content and think critically about science beyond the classroom. It also mentioned his leadership role in implementing the “Deeper Learning” educational model at Tucker, and in improving student behavior by leading students to reflect on their behavior and choices. (Cuccherini is pictured with Tucker Principal Art Raymond, far left; Henrico Schools Superintendent Amy Cashwell, second from right; and colleague Julia Brown, who nominated him.)
• Danny Jones, a first-grade teacher at Greenwood Elementary School. One of Jones’ nominations described his “endless energy, contagious enthusiasm, positive morale and sound leadership skills” and said, “He is an advocate for all students and teaches like his hair is on fire.”
Nominators also cited his efforts to make sure students are life- ready, his initiative in leading professional development, his work as a Greenwood “house leader” and his staff leadership in all-things technology. (Jones is pictured in the school's library with students.)
• Kim Powell, Sandston Elementary School principal. Powell’s nomination described her as a dynamic and innovative leader. It cited her advocacy of Sandston as a Deeper Learning school and the many popular programs she has put in place. The nomination also described her work beyond the school campus, creating a program to provide needy families with crockpots, food, coats and shoes. (Powell is pictured flanked by Henrico Schools Superintendent Amy Cashwell and Director of Elementary Education Rich Hall.)
The award, presented annually, is named in honor of Corallo, a former HCPS assistant superintendent for instruction and organizational development, who died in 2013.
