Baton Rouge- The 2007-2008 East Baton Rouge Parish School System Principals of the Year were announced on Thursday, September 20th.  Cheryl Singer of Westdale Heights Academic Magnet, Hollis Milton, Jr. of Southest Middle School and Wilbert August Jr. of Glen Oaks High School were honored during a ceremony in the midst of their families, friends and colleagues. 

A special moment during the ceremony for Elementary Principal of the Year Cheryl Singer occurred when several students from Westdale Heights Academic Magnet presented her with a gift bag and many hugs.  Singer has been an educator for 37 years, serving as a teacher in regular and gifted education, library media specialist, teacher for instructional support, and a principal.  In addition to her dedication as a public education professional, Singer has strong community ties, serving on the Board of Directors of the A.C. Lewis YMCA and as Vice-President of the Kenilworth Civic Association.

In his first year as principal of Southeast Middle School, Hollis Milton, Jr. has earned the respect of his staff and colleagues. Milton began his career as a classroom teacher and quickly moved to the ranks of administrator, serving as assistant principal at Prescott and Sherwood Middle Schools. Milton was voted Teacher of the Year twice in East Baton Rouge Parish.

Wilbert August, Jr. has focused on being a strong leader during his 30 years in public education.  The Glen Oaks High School principal believes that it is his duty to encourage, facilitate, and promote change that is beneficial to student achievement.  August began his teaching career in the Houston Independent School District. He has been serving students in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System since 1985, as a teacher, coach, dean, assistant principal, and principal.

WBRZ Anchorman John Pastorek led the recognition ceremony as the Master of Ceremonies.  He was joined by Neighbor’s Federal Credit Union (FCU) President and CEO Norman Thompson in honoring the principals for their service.  Neighbor’s FCU presented each principal with a check for use in support of initiatives at their schools.