At a surprise assembly on Monday, Jan. 29, Southside Principal Mr. Scott Schiller received the 2024 Wyoming National Distinguished Principal title. 

According to the National Association of Elementary School Principals (naesp.org), the honor is awarded to outstanding principals for ”setting high standards for instruction, student achievement, character, and climate for the students, families, and staff in their learning communities.” 

Mr. Schiller has done this exceptionally well. Under his direction, Southside has won the 2013 National Title 1 Distinguished School award and two Blue Ribbon awards, one in 2014, and most recently in 2023. 

The award is difficult to earn. After a nomination from Superintendent Jay Curtis, Schiller completed a 26-page application and was selected from a panel of other principals. He will travel to Washington D.C. in October to be honored by the national association. 

“The visionary leadership of Scott has cultivated a culture of collaboration among staff, resulting in a continuous cycle of improvement in teaching practices and student outcomes… has empowered teachers to excel in their roles, leading to improved student achievement and a positive school climate,” Curtis wrote in the nomination letter. 

Both students and staff at Southside believe Schiller was the best person for the honor. Many students recall how he encourages them to be the best versions of themselves, while teachers say he is very upbeat and supportive. 

Southside third grader Wesley B. said, “Mr. Schiller cares about the students and teachers more than himself. ”

“When he gave me the award, Mr. Schiller said, ‘You’re very good at soccer,’” third grader Case C. said. “This was very heartwarming for me.” 

Aside from the high praise from the Superintendent and the third graders, the staff at Southside also commended Schiller. 

“Working for Mr. Schiller is rewarding because he is really good at acknowledging his staff and their efforts.” Southside Speech Language Pathologist Sherry Loris said. “He is great at showing appreciation and is very positive and supportive.”

Park County School District #1 is fortunate to have Mr. Schiller as an employee.  As the Southside saying goes, “Southside shines.”

Most would agree that Southside shines because they are under the leadership of Mr. Scott Schiller.