The University of Connecticut and the Neag School of Education is honoring North Branford's Jerome Harrison Elementary School Principal Dr. Carter Welch as their 2017 Outstanding School Administrator.

Dr. Welch received his B.S. in Sports Medicine and his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership at UConn. Dr. Welch graduated from the UConn Executive Leadership Program in 2012, and is currently enrolled in the UConn PreK-3 Leadership Program.

Dr. Welch has been an employee of North Branford Public Schools since 2002. He began his career at the high school and is now at the elementary school, his work has including roles as a teacher, dean of students, assistant principal, and currently principal of Jerome Harrison Elementary (JHS). Under his leadership JHS has been recognized as a school of exemplary school climate, has received distinctions for community-building efforts, and has been recognized for building innovative student leadership opportunities. Dr. Welch also serves as a school climate coach and research affiliate for the National School Climate Center in New York and as an adjunct professor at Southern CT State University in educational leadership.

Additionally, during the nomination and selection process, colleagues described him as:

"Ethical and honest; he is guided by what is best for children in the decisions he makes; he values and recognizes the contributions of others; and he leads with both his head and his heart."

"He provides consistent and effective feedback to help me grow and is always willing to bring me in on a situation if it will help me learn. As I have been able to witness the change that he has brought about in our school it has only inspired me to do more."

"Dr. Welch is universally respected for his ability to address the dire need for leadership and transform schools into safe, inclusive, thriving learning environments for students and staff."

"It is his strong leadership skills, his ability to motivate the most difficult, his passion for student achievement, his thirst for continued learning, and his expertise in school climate, instruction and assessment that make him extraordinary."

Dr. Welch is both honored and humbled to be recognized to receive this award and it is extra special to him, being a proud UConn graduate and devoted Husky fan! Further, he commented that the award is a reflection of the many wonderful and talented colleagues and mentors he has worked with, the supportive community of North Branford, and the excellent students he has had the privilege to work with over his 15 years in education.

Dr. Welch will be honored with five other state educational award winners on March 18 at a ceremony at the University of Connecticut.