Each year the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders, a statewide umbrella organization for professional school leadership associations in the state, gives its seven affiliates an opportunity to select one person to receive the Jim Puckett Outstanding Educator Award.

The Georgia School Superintendents Association selected Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Joseph Barrow as its 2017 recipient. The honor goes to individuals who personify the leadership qualities modeled by GAEL’s third executive director, Jim Puckett.

Nominees must possess a record of service for the profession of educational leadership that is considered exemplary, and exhibit leadership characteristics that are a positive role model for others. The selection team considers information submitted about the nominee that includes examples of effective leadership and management skills, how new ideas and projects have been implemented, contributions to the educational leadership profession, professional growth activities, membership in professional organizations, and community involvement.