Superintendent Dance named among “20 to Watch” educators by National School Boards Association

Recognition came this week in Atlanta

TOWSON, MD. – Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance this week was named among the National School Boards Association’s prestigious “20 to Watch” educators for 2014-2015.

The national honor identifies Dr. Dance as an “emerging leader” who will help to shape education technology for the next 20 years. Dr. Dance received the award earlier this week during the Consortium for School Networking Conference in Atlanta.

“This year’s ‘20 to Watch’ honorees highlight the kind of exciting innovations that exist throughout America’s public schools. These teachers and administrators, with support from their school boards, share a vision for learning that will prepare students for future success,” said Thomas J. Gentzel, NSBA’s Executive Director. “These inspirational pioneers are having a positive impact on the districts they serve.”

According to the group’s website, Dr. Dance was honored for making “meaningful use of technology a priority” through the system’sBlueprint 2.0 strategic plan and through S.T.A.T., or Students and Teachers Accessing Tomorrow, the multi-year initiative to ensure every student is learning in an equitable, effective digital classroom. The award also mentions Dr. Dance’s prolific personal use of social media as a way of connecting and communicating with the public.

“I am honored and humbled to be recognized for achievements that really are team accomplishments, including S.T.AT. and Blueprint 2.0,” Dr. Dance said. “It has been gratifying to have worked with so many talented and dedicated educators, parents, students, and others, all of whom recognize the power and potential of technology for our students.”

Dr. Dance is one of two Maryland honorees among the association’s “20 to Watch” list this year, its ninth since the recognition began in 2006.