13 Jan 2011
Israel Cordero Recognized for Outstanding Leadership in Education
DALLAS—Israel Cordero, principal at W.W. Samuell High School, has been selected to receive the 2010 Simmons Luminary Award for his efforts to change people's lives through education.
The award is presented by the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development at Southern Methodist University and honors individuals and organizations for their extraordinary leadership in education.
"Israel Cordero exemplifies the leadership qualities it takes to turn around an urban school," said Dr. David J. Chard, Dean of SMU's Simmons School. "He's able to bring together and inspire his faculty and staff, motivate his students to strive for excellence, and has the courage and willingness to make immediate academic and cultural changes to the school in order to improve student outcomes. He's a great collaborator and isn't afraid of taking risks to benefit students."
Cordero serves as a lead principal in Dallas ISD and has been at the helm of W.W. Samuell High School since 2008. During his 13 years in education, Cordero has served as principal, teacher and coach. He earned a Master of Educational Administration from Texas Woman's University in Denton and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Southern Methodist University.
"I am honored to receive this prestigious award from SMU," said Cordero. "This award is a compliment to the staff, students and community of the schools in which I've served. I am pleased to receive it on their behalf. I am also looking forward to a continued relationship with SMU."
Cordero will be joined by other honorees Teach for America and the Neuhaus Education Center for the award presentation at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, January 27, at the Mack Grand Ballroom, Umphrey Lee Center, SMU.
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