James Neer, Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) Principal of Monarch High School in Coconut Creek, Florida, is one of nine honorees from across the state for the 2016 Principal Leadership Awards by Florida TaxWatch, which recognizes top performing principals who exceed expected learning gains in high-risk schools. Recognition is based on analysis of student achievement gains in reading and mathematics in schools that have high percentages of students with disabilities, students designated as English as a Second Language learners, and those eligible for Free and Reduced Lunch.

“I am proud of the ongoing efforts from our school leaders to improve student outcomes,” says Superintendent Robert W. Runcie. “I commend Principal Neer for his commitment to his students and for being recognized by Florida TaxWatch as a top performing principal in the state of Florida. The strategies and actions of Principal Neer and his staff are working to reduce the student achievement gap and ensure our students are college and career ready.”

“These nine principals are shattering the status quo and giving these students an opportunity to be successful not just in the classroom, but outside it as well,” said Dominic M. Calabro, President and CEO of Florida TaxWatch. “This year’s honorees prove that by putting students first, we can foster a learning environment that leads to a successful and fruitful education and life. These results, with the right leader, can be realized in every school across the state and nation.”

Principal Neer will be acknowledged at a ceremony on November 17, 2016, at the 4th Annual Florida Principal Leadership Awards in Orlando, Florida.  Principal Neer has been a principal for 14 years and with BCPS for a total of 33 years