Mesa View Elementary Principal Stacey Cohen has been named one of nine recipients nationwide of the prestigious 2024 Terrel H. Bell Award for Outstanding School Leadership, as announced today by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. Principal Cohen, along with the other honorees from this year’s cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools, will be recognized during the National Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024.

The Terrel H. Bell Award recognizes exceptional school leaders like Cohen who are committed to creating lasting, positive change in education. As part of the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, the award honors principals nominated by their school communities during the final stages of the application process. Cohen is the only honoree representing Colorado.

“Principal Cohen’s recognition as a Bell Award recipient is a tremendous and well-earned honor,” said Dr. Brian Hill, superintendent of District 51. “Her leadership, passion, and unwavering belief in the potential of every student have truly transformed Mesa View Elementary, inspiring both students and staff alike. Her dedication to fostering a school culture where all students can thrive speaks volumes about her commitment to excellence in education. We couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishments.”

The U.S. Department of Education, in partnership with the National Association of Elementary School Principals, the Association for Middle Level Education, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, presents the Bell Awards to recognize the vital role principals like Cohen play in guiding their schools and students to success, often in the face of significant challenges.