Hayward's Carrie Hanna and Edna Chapman stand next to Fulton's Deborah Howard and Dr. Pam Shay and Joan Elder from the District

Five Springfield City School District employees have received the Nehemiah Foundation’s ‘Hopeful Leaders’ Award, which seeks to recognize individuals in Springfield who uplift the community and foster a sense of hope for a brighter future. 

The District is proud to celebrate the following employees who were among this year’s honorees: 

  • Edna Chapman, Hayward Middle School Principal

  • Joan Elder, SCSD Board of Education Member

  • Carrie Hanna, Hayward Middle School Counselor

  • Deborah Howard, Fulton Elementary School Principal

  • Dr. Pamela Shay, Director of Federal Programs

“This esteemed award is a testament to these educators’ unwavering commitment and dedication to our community, showcasing their exceptional leadership qualities and the remarkable impact they have had on the City of Springfield,” said SCSD Superintendent Dr. Bob Hill. “Hopeful leaders are those who inspire and lead by example, infusing optimism and determination into everything they do. These individuals exhibit vision, compassion, resilience, collaboration and innovation. Edna, Joan, Carrie, Deb and Pam have all demonstrated these attributes in abundance, and their collective contributions have been nothing short of exceptional. We are immensely proud of their achievements and honored to have them within our District, serving our students.”