JoAnn Sims, Ed. D.

Each year WAETAG presents a Distinguished Leadership Award at the annual conference. This award is given to an individual who has demonstrated excellence in the field of Gifted and Talented, who has been involved in gifted and talented education locally and regionally. This award is given to a leader who is an advocate for gifted and talented students and programs at the local, state or national level. The recipient of the Distinguished Leadership award is often involved in publishing curriculum, articles or research. Through the award, WAETAG recognizes the involvement, service and participation to professional organizations such as WAETAG and other Gifted and Talented organizations. This award also recognizes the impact of distinguished leadership directly to gifted students within the region, state or nation.
The 2005 Distinguished Leadership Award was presented to Jayce Keeling for her outstanding leadership over 27 years in the TESSERA Program in Spokane. She tirelessly supported gifted education to the Spokane School Board, and mentored teachers through classes at Eastern Washington University and Whitworth College.
Many letters were received on Jayce's behalf. The comments and examples truly exemplified a distinguished leader. A parent or a former student wrote, "Her generosity of spirit and gift for humor bring out the best, not only in her students, but in all who come into contact with her." A supervisor stated, "As she grew professionally, she inspired and supported her fellow teachers by bringing new understanding from her attendance at state and national meetings." Her principal wrote, "Every year Jayce has had a positive impact on the lives of over eighty students. It's no wonder she is frequently visited by past students who are now in high school, college, or beyond. They love Jayce Keeling." From a past student the following note was received, "She has touched in a profound way many of the brightest youth in Spokane, children who are better for having had her encouragement and guidance, and children who will go (and are going) out into the world making it a better place for their contributions to it. And that is the most any teacher can hope to accomplish."

The WAETAG Board was honored to present this award to Jayce at the Friday evening dinner during the fall '05 state conference. She is truly a distinguished leader in our field.