From Stafford County Schools
The Journalism Education Association has named Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) Superintendent Dr. Scott Kizner as its 2021 Administrator of the Year.
“Freedom of speech is a basic human right afforded by our Constitution, and one that we must extend to our student journalists,” said Dr. Kizner. “This form of expression should not be limited only to Stafford County – all students in Virginia should be afforded this fundamental right when it comes to the pursuit of journalism education.”
Dr. Kizner actively engages with students on a number of levels, welcoming opportunities for two-way communication to both learn from and provide information to the student body.
“Dr. Kizner has been incredibly involved in SCPS’s media programs, and not in a bad way,” said former student and editor-in-chief of the Talon newsmagazine at Colonial Forge High School Aynsleigh Escher. “Instead of excessive censorship, Dr. Kizner has allowed free media coverage. Instead of avoiding interviews, Dr. Kizner welcomes every opportunity to speak with student media. Instead of sitting back and watching students’ first amendment rights get trampled, he attends rallies in the students’ defense.”
Dr. Kizner’s passion for supporting student voice is a foundational belief; evidenced throughout his entire career.
“In my 33-year career, I’ve rarely experienced such a supportive superintendent when it comes to scholastic media,” said Harrisonburg (Virginia) High School adviser Valerie Kibler, MJE. “In fact, he is one of the most student-centered leaders I’ve ever known. Dr. Scott Kizner gets it and this country could use a million more superintendents just like him.”
Dr. Kizner will retire as the SCPS Superintendent on September 1. For more information about Stafford County Public schools visit www.staffordschools.net.
Founded in 1924, JEA supports free and responsible scholastic journalism by providing resources and educational opportunities, promoting professionalism, encouraging and rewarding student excellence and teacher achievement, and an atmosphere which encompasses diversity yet builds unity.
