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Dixon

Tim Dixon (BSEd ’86), principal of Waycross Middle School, was named 2011 Georgia Middle School Principal of the Year.  He was also one of three finalists for 2011 National Middle School Principal of the Year.

Dixon, who has been principal at the school for four years, has earned respect from colleagues, teachers, parents and community members for his commitment to collaborative leadership. He urges his staff members to take accountability for student success and he ensures that they participate in the major decisions that impact the school.

“Dixon is loved by the school community,” said Joseph Barrow Jr., superintendent of Ware County Schools. “He models values, beliefs, and attitudes that encourage others to high levels of performance.”

By supporting the development of programs that underscore equity and rigor, Dixon ensures that all 578 students’ needs are met. After taking stock of the school’s culture when he became principal, he met with the leadership team to revise Waycross’s vision, mission, and goals to more effectively reach its diverse student population.

Now, student-staff mentoring programs, teacher self-evaluations, faculty study groups, before- and in-school tutoring, and targeted interventions are commonplace in the middle school. Students and teachers are also required to participate in at least one of the school’s 29 clubs, and can choose from activities like debate, rodeo, skateboarding, and even a support group for students with incarcerated parents.

With Dixon’s help, Waycross has produced dramatic gains in state math and reading scores among all student subgroups. In math, the percentage of black students reaching the proficient and advanced levels jumped from 72 percent in 2007 to 81 percent in 2009. In reading, 82 percent of economically disadvantaged students reached the proficient and advanced benchmark in 2009, increasing from 74 percent in 2007. Discipline referrals also dropped from 912 to 631 in the span of three years—a true testament to the dedication of Dixon and his staff.

Dixon, a 1981 graduate of Blackshear High, has been an administrator in Ware County Schools for eight years, first as an assistant principal at Waycross Middle, then principal.

The Principal of the Year recognition program is sponsored by MetLife and the National Association of Secondary School Principals along with the Georgia Association of Secondary School Principals. The program recognizes principals that excel in educational leadership, resolving complex problems, developing self and others, and community service.