(PDF Version of Media Release) (Click HERE for Teacher of the Year Award Video)
Media Release:
ISANA’s Director of Expanded Learning Named Teacher of the Year
by the California Charter Schools Association
Autrilla Gillis has worked tirelessly to develop ISANA’s award-winning after school Expanded Learning Program
and enrich the academic experience of students through innovative, hands-on, high quality, out-of-school-time opportunities.
Los Angeles, CA – The California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) has honored Autrilla Gillis, ISANA Academies’ Director of Expanded Learning, with the Hart Vision Teacher of the Year Award for her outstanding leadership and tireless commitment to advancing the charter school movement. Ms. Gillis was one of seven Hart Vision Award recipients recognized during yesterday’s general session at the CCSA annual conference.
“Every day, my team and I take great pride in providing outstanding expanded learning opportunities that empower our students to achieve educational and lifelong success,” said Ms. Gillis. “I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this award.”
The Hart Vision Awards, established in 1995, are named in honor of Gary K. Hart, retired California State Senator, and former California Secretary of Education. While serving as state senator, Hart sponsored the legislation that established California charter schools. The awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to CCSA’s mission to support and advocate for high quality non-profit charter schools in California.
“Ms. Gillis is a compassionate and dedicated leader and educator who works tirelessly to provide our students with unique, academic, literacy, and social enrichment opportunities that not only build on what they are learning during the school day, but also celebrate diversity, inspire creativity, boost critical thinking, and support socioemotional wellness,” said Nadia Shaiq, ISANA’s Chief Executive Officer. “She is so deserving of this recognition, and we’re all so proud of her.”
Over the years, Ms. Gillis has been a teacher, curriculum specialist, vice principal, and principal. She has also held several leadership roles within the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) and has served on numerous California Department of Education (CDE) Expanded Learning Steering Committees, including the Expanded Learning Policy Committee. Most recently, Ms. Gillis received the California Expanded Learning Leadership Award from the CDE’s Expanded Learning Division.
For more information about ISANA Academies, please visit www.isanaacademies.org.