Local Education Leader Receives Statewide Award
Cirone, who has led Santa Barbara County schools since 1983, has a long track record of leadership in education at the county, state and national levels. He is the longest-serving county superintendent in the state, and his firm roots in the community have led to strong partnerships, effective collaborations and most importantly, academic growth among all students.
He is highly regarded throughout California for providing services that address student needs. He is a leader in promoting excellence in teacher training, and shares his philosophy that teachers are true community heroes who deserve support and respect for the work they do. One of his greatest contributions to public education is spreading the message that educators are highly trained and competent professionals whose work is crucial to a strong society.
A member of ACSA for more than 35 years, Cirone is also an ardent supporter of civic literacy, teaching students the knowledge, skills and values needed to take part in a democratic society. To this end, he has organized countywide programs to teach young people the value of philanthropy.
He also promotes education for all students, and has coordinated programs for students in need. Foster youth, homeless students and those in juvenile courts and community schools all have equal opportunities for success, and under Cirone’s leadership the high school graduation numbers for these students have risen from zero to more than 200 per year.
Named after ACSA’s founding president, the Ferd. J. Kiesel Memorial Distinguished Service Award is the association’s highest honor. It recognizes those who have made a significant contribution to public education over the course of their lifetime. Visit http://www.acsa.org/awards for more information.
Established in 1971, the Association of California School Administrators is the largest umbrella organization for school leaders in the nation, serving more than 16,000 members in all areas of public education. The mission of ACSA is to support California’s education leaders, ensure all students have the skills and knowledge needed to excel, and champion public education.