A Winner
“Winner” generally refers to a person or entity that succeeds in a competition, contest or endeavor. It often denotes a victor, a medalist or someone recognized for hard work. “Winner” also implies a positive, goal-oriented approach as well as someone who thrives on achievement.
Tara Becker-Utess is Mason Public Schools’ latest winner being recognized as Assistant High School Principal of the Year for these attributes.
Myriah Lillie, Mason High School principal, who regularly works hand in glove with her says, “Tara is passionate. She’s one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever met. A lot of days she’s here early; she stays late; she never says ‘no’; and she’s always willing to help.”
As an assistant principal, she often works behind the scenes and is not necessarily the person taking the microphone at school assemblies. Instead, she collaborates with staff to help struggling students and is visible in classrooms, focusing on the professional growth of faculty and staff.
Tara possesses a remarkable work ethic, and I can attest to the fact that Tara is highly regarded by students, faculty and staff. As a teacher coach and collaborator who interacts with Tara on a regular basis, I can confirm her exceptionality, remarkable skill-set and deep understanding of pedagogy. The intellectual capital she brings to Mason is unmatched.
Tara’s selection was announced on our local news channels and topped by an article in the Lansing State Journal. The frosting was added when she enjoyed a three-day all expense trip to Washington, DC to meet the other 49 assistant principal winners. She was quick to say, for her, the networking between she and the other assistant principals was the most powerful takeaway. During those conversations, student engagement was a top discussion point and appeared to loom as a universal high school challenge. You can look for Tara and her team to “push the envelope” regarding this matter in the upcoming year! Why? Because Tara Becker-Utess is a winner!
