Clark Wilhelm, an exemplary leader and educator.

By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Clark Wilhelm

In today’s 21st –century learning environment, an outstanding educator is someone who is creative, empowering, collaborative, and a visionary. Clark Wilhelm, a counselor at Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) for seven years, has been recognized by his peers as an outstanding educator, and he was awarded the title of Educator of the Month for the month of March by the Successful Practices Network (SPN).

The SPN is a nationwide organization that brings together educators from around the country to share their best practices through a network of online forums, conferences, and newsletters. Members of the SPN collaborate in order to learn from one another and ultimately deliver the highest quality instruction to their students.

The goal is to teach students using engaging, interactive methods that improve their overall academic performance, and prepare them with the skills and knowledge required in today’s world.

Wilhelm was honored to receive the recognition as educator of the month. “I love my job and all the responsibilities that come with it, so to be recognized for something that is just part of my life is odd. I could not do my job by myself and feel this is an honor to be shared by the entire community. I do what I do because I love helping people. We all need opportunities to learn and find our way in the world and this is what my job allows me to do. SPN provides RHMS a platform to share all the great learning that happens in our community.” Wilhelm was chosen from educators across the country based on the commitment, time and outstanding practices that he has displayed in his 19 years serving as an educator.

Wilhelm has been instrumental in propelling RHMS to the forefront of outstanding middle schools, not only in Colorado, but also in the nation. RHMS was recognized by the SPN as a National Model School in 2010, and was a finalist as a State School of Character in 2009, thanks to the efforts of Wilhelm and his team members.

Wilhelm has been a presenter at The Model Schools Conference in 2011 and 2012, he oversees the highly successful Early Flight School Transition program for incoming sixth graders at RHMS, he is a key member of the District Counselor Evaluation Team, and he is a national presenter and staff development instructor.

RHMS principal Mike Loitz and his leadership team believe that Wilhelm is well deserving of this recognition. “Clark Wilhelm demonstrates exemplary leadership not only within the school, but at the district level as well. He is an excellent communicator with all stakeholders. His gift for addressing difficult topics of conversation with students and parents is shown in how he works through different situations while honoring all those involved. Clark is an excellent coordinator when working with peers while spearheading new initiatives. He has excelled at leading projects and programs at both the building and district level. Clark is what we like to call a “doer;” not only does he think and plan out great ideas, but he makes them happen.”