Dysart High School Principal, Amy Hartjen, received the prestigious Exemplary Principal Award from Steve Watson, Maricopa County School Superintendent.

Hartjen was surprised with the award during the school’s senior awards ceremony on May 11.

“Amy Hartjen has done an extraordinary job in Dysart! Under her leadership, Dysart High School became an A+ School of Excellence, and the campus has truly thrived. We’re so proud of Amy’s accomplishments, and we’re honored to have her serving Dysart students each day,” shared Dr. Quinn Kellis, Superintendent of the Dysart Unified School District.

The award recognizes leaders who understand the connection between a thriving school culture and high levels of student achievement and teacher retention. These leaders intentionally and strategically nurture school environments where teacher and student voices set and realize the school’s vision.

They lead schools where students achieve academically and emotionally, and teachers are inspired to remain at the school and in the profession.

“It is an honor to recognize Amy Hartjen as an Exemplary Principal,” said Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson. “She has a strong vision for student academic and social success and has created a culture reflective of both high expectations and unwavering support. Amy has students at the center of all decision-making and her leadership, compassion and commitment inspire everyone around her to be the best they can be.”

Award recipients undergo a rigorous evaluation that involves a superintendent nomination, application, teacher survey, video interview, site visit and extensive data review. Criteria for selection includes the ability to: actively engage staff, parents and community members in developing an effective school culture; utilize data to guide instruction and decisions regarding staff development; consistently demonstrate high teacher retention; and successfully develop and inspire others.

“It has been an honor to serve the students, staff and community of Dysart High School for the past ten years. I am so proud of the progress we have made as a campus. It is a testament to what can be accomplished with a dedicated staff and amazing students,” said Amy Hartjen.

Hartjen has served in the Dysart Unified School District for 21 years. She has been at Dysart High School for the last 10 years, eight as principal and two years as assistant principal. Other schools in the district that Hartjen has served at include Willow Canyon High School and Dysart Elementary School, where she was a social studies teacher.