Nae, WAUWATOSA scHooL DisTRICT ~e~ * Your Educational Community * Jefferson Elementary April 22, 2016 ‘To Whom It May Concern: It is my privilege to write this letter of recommendation for Mrs. Mekenna Ellis, an outstanding educator and leader. Mekenna is a one-of-a-kind individual who gives her all to every pursuit, and produces powerful results. Regardless of the setting, Mekenna has displayed her affinity for leadershi Mrs. Mekenna Ellis has the skills, knowledge, and disposition to be a successful building leader. First and foremost, Mekenna demonstrates a strong understanding of curriculum, assessment, and instruction, Her instructional leadership is evident when co-planning with teams of teachers, presenting high-level ‘engaging professional development to our staff, and moving individual teachers forward through coaching conversations. In addition to a strong focus on instruction, Mekenna is a strategic leader focused on moving our school forward towards building and district goals. She is an integral part of our building leadership team. As part of that team, Mekenna helps develop our school's improvement plan each year. Mekenna analyzes building data, asks critical questions, and involves others in developing action steps. She skillfully plans and delivers professional development that is aligned and connected to the building and district goals. During professional development, Mekenna helps staff members make connections between the new learning and the larger goal of the building and district. She displays extensive knowledge of best practices and keeps up on new educational research. Her knowledge of educational research is evident during informal conversations with staff members and when presenting to the staff. She is able to weave in educational research to build a sense of urgency about why change is needed, Mekenna is professional in all interactions. She is naturally able to build relationships with parents and colleagues that are built on mutual respect and trust. Her communication is honest, clear, and consistently focused on what is best for students. She remains calm and positive in the face of challenges. Mekenna’s skills and experience have equipped her for a successful transition into a school leader role. ‘Our school and district benefitted from her strategic planning, instructional leadership, and ability to design and deliver highly engaging professional development. If you have the chance to interview Mekenna for a leadership position, take it! Any district would be lucky to welcome her to their leadership team Sincerely, Qenmifer Schustg Jennifer Schultz, Principal 6927 Maple Terrace Wauwatosa, WI 53213. 414.773.1200 FAX: 414.773.1220 www wauwatosaschools.org The Wauwatosa Schoo! District does not discriminate on the basis of @ person's color, sex, race, religion, national origin, ancesty, 180d, pregnancy, maral status, sual oritaton, or physical mental, emotional o learning leabily