Dr. Micki Harris, the principal of Eddie White Middle Academy, has received a prestigious award from Communities in Schools of Atlanta (CIS Atlanta), a non-profit organization that provides support and resources to students and schools in need. Dr. Harris was chosen for the 2024 Choose Success Outstanding Principal Award, which recognizes her outstanding teamwork and commitment to CIS Atlanta.
A Leader with a Vision
Dr. Harris has been the principal of Eddie White Middle Academy since 2019, and has led the school to achieve remarkable academic and social outcomes. Under her leadership, the school has improved its College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) score by 15 points, increased its student attendance rate by 10%, and reduced its discipline referrals by 50%. Dr. Harris has also implemented several innovative programs and initiatives, such as the STEM Academy, the Leadership Academy, the Fine Arts Academy, and the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework.
Dr. Harris attributes her success to her vision of creating a culture of excellence and collaboration among students, staff, parents, and community partners. She says, “My goal is to ensure that every student at Eddie White Middle Academy receives a high-quality education that prepares them for college and career readiness. I believe that every student has the potential to achieve greatness, and I strive to provide them with the opportunities and support they need to reach their goals.”
A Partner with a Mission
One of the key community partners that Dr. Harris works with is CIS Atlanta, which has been serving Eddie White Middle Academy since 2017. CIS Atlanta is part of the national Communities in Schools network, which is the largest and most effective dropout prevention organization in the country. CIS Atlanta’s mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.
CIS Atlanta provides Eddie White Middle Academy with a full-time site coordinator, who works closely with Dr. Harris and the school staff to identify and address the needs and challenges of students and families. CIS Atlanta also offers various programs and services to the school, such as mentoring, tutoring, counseling, enrichment activities, college and career exposure, basic needs assistance, and parent engagement.
Dr. Harris says that CIS Atlanta has been instrumental in helping her and her school achieve their goals. She says, “CIS Atlanta is more than a partner, they are family. They have been with us every step of the way, providing us with the resources and support we need to help our students succeed. They have made a positive impact on the lives of our students and families, and I am grateful for their partnership.”
An Award with a Meaning
Dr. Harris was selected for the 2024 Choose Success Outstanding Principal Award by CIS Atlanta, out of more than 60 principals from 68 schools that CIS Atlanta serves. The award is given annually to a principal who demonstrates exceptional leadership, collaboration, and commitment to CIS Atlanta and its mission.
Dr. Harris was honored at the Choose Success Awards Luncheon, which was held on February 22, 2024, at the Georgia Aquarium. The luncheon was attended by more than 500 guests, including CIS Atlanta board members, staff, donors, volunteers, and community leaders. Dr. Harris received a plaque, a gift basket, and a $1,000 donation to her school from CIS Atlanta.
Dr. Harris says that she is humbled and honored to receive the award, and that she shares it with her entire school community. She says, “This award is not just for me, it is for everyone who works hard every day to make Eddie White Middle Academy a great place to learn and grow. I am proud of our students, our staff, our parents, and our partners, who have all contributed to our success. I am also thankful to CIS Atlanta, for recognizing our efforts and for supporting our vision. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our students and in the future of our community.”
