Investing in Educators
In the heart of the enchanting Disney World in Orlando, Florida, amidst the whimsical atmosphere of the Coronado Springs Resort, something magical was happening from November 15-17, 2023. It wasn’t just the charm of the location, but the vibrant energy of dedicated educators converging for the 2023 National Educator Conference. This event, hosted by the Simon Youth Foundation (SYF), stood as a testament to our unwavering commitment to empower and celebrate educators.
Bringing together academy leaders and educators from all SYF’s 32 academies, the conference served as a pivotal platform for connection, networking, and the exchange of best practices. Over 40 educators immersed themselves in a spectrum of activities designed to equip them with invaluable resources to enhance their work with students. From enriching educational sessions to celebratory activities, every moment was dedicated to honoring the tireless efforts of educators and academies. Educators collaborated in sessions such as, “All the Things: Exploring Alt Ed Options to Meet Student Needs” and “Virtual Reality in the Alt Ed Classroom.”
At the heart of the conference was the keynote address delivered by none other than Niki Ross, the esteemed Executive Principal at Simon Youth Academy at Phoenix High School, and Simon Youth Academy at Sugarloaf Mills. Ross, also recognized as the 2023 Administrator of the Year, captivated the audience with her insightful exploration of Jon J. Muth’s, The Three Questions. Through this poignant children’s book, Ross eloquently delved into the profound inquiries that guide educators in their noble pursuit:
“When is the best time to do things?
Who is the most important one?
What is the right thing to do?”
These seemingly simple questions encapsulate the essence of the educator’s mission, prompting reflection on the significance of timing, prioritization, and moral integrity in their daily endeavors. Ross’s adept analysis illuminated the universal relevance of these questions, transcending age boundaries and resonating deeply with educators of all backgrounds.
As educators departed the conference, they carried with them not only newfound knowledge and inspiration but also a renewed sense of purpose. The 2023 National Educator Conference had not merely been a gathering—it had been a transformative experience, empowering educators to continue their invaluable work with renewed vigor and dedication.
In the hallowed halls of education, where dreams are nurtured and futures shaped, the legacy of the 2023 National Educator Conference endures as a beacon of empowerment, reminding educators that their impact extends far beyond the confines of the classroom.
Each year, SYF recognizes its educators for the impact they have made on their students, Academies and greater communities through its National Administrator and Teacher of the Year Awards. This year both received a $2,500 honorarium.
2023 SYF Teacher of the Year – Todd Grimes
Simon Youth Academy at Greenfield-Central, Greenfield, IN
Mr. Grimes was diagnosed with terminal cancer in May of 2022. He was given one year to live and was advised to get his affairs in order. He knew he had a long battle ahead of him with lots of surgeries, procedures, and treatments that would test even the most patient and healthy individual, as he is both. As he was going through treatments, surgeries, and recovery, against the advice of his doctors to rest, Grimes continued to check in on student progress on a weekly basis and managed to call and email teachers with suggestions to ensure students continue to make progress towards graduation. Grimes made an effort to remain in contact with students as much as possible, even subjecting himself to a few Zoom calls with the entire student body when he was not feeling his best.
He has proved to be one of the most selfless, kind, caring and genuine people. Mr. Grimes goes out of his way to ensure student success. He makes sure he sits with each student, every day for at least a couple of minutes. This is his way of connecting with kids, building relationships all while monitoring student progress. Todd makes positive parent phone calls several times a week in an effort to keep parents encouraged and supportive. He often sacrifices sleep as a result of constantly thinking of how to improve our program and student outcomes.
In his own words:
“I have been at the SYF Academy at Greenfield Central since its inception – 7 years ago. During that time, we have reached numerous students each year that would have otherwise likely fallen “between the cracks”. It is incredibly rewarding to help students earn their diploma and have them come back to visit and say they could not have done it without you (then hear about their current successes). There is no doubt the graduation rate of Greenfield Central High School would not be as high as it is if it weren’t for the success of our ever evolving (and improving) program. I would like to think the networking I have been able to develop with fellow alternative educators – both at the state and national levels – has made an impact. The sharing of ideas and openness to try new things has certainly helped our Academy.”
2023 SYF Administrator of the Year: Niki Ross
Simon Youth Academy at Phoenix High School and Simon Youth Academy at Sugarloaf Mills, Lawrenceville, GA
Mrs. Ross was nominated for the Administrator of the Year award by her peers who recognize her passion for serving students and commitment to her staff’s well-being. She has the largest graduation rate increase of any high school in Gwinnett County pre-pandemic to post-pandemic over 10%. Mrs. Ross started the Summer School SYF Program, which graduated 30 students the first summer, 46 the second, and the number continues to increase. Mrs. Ross leads the efforts to implement interventions to improve student performance and success- 1. Flexible scheduling/student choice. 2. Individualized, self-paced mastery learning. 3. Extended learning opportunities on Fridays and Saturdays for students to catch up or to obtain extra help. 4. Free Daycare for teenage parents. 5. Registration/onboarding process with an administrator and counselor including goal setting and planning. 6. Dedicated staff that continuously connects with students and families to promote healthy well-being.
Mrs. Ross is not only a great administrator but also a great person. She supports staff not only within the school but also outside the school. There have been many occasions where she will spend time outside of her normal workday supporting staff accomplishments and attending community engagements. She is always open to new opportunities and ideas to ensure the overall well-being of students, staff, and the community that we serve.
In her own words:
“For the past 23 years, I have devoted my professional life to alternative education. My
passion is to find new ways to reach students who have not been successful in a
traditional setting. It is rewarding to creatively solve problems in a small setting, and I love
making a big difference in a small place.”
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