Runee B. Sallad, Ed.D., was extraordinarily motivated and committed to supporting the teachers and students she led as Assistant Principal of the Freshman Academy and English/Language Art Department of Baldwin High School, Milledgeville, Georgia. Dr. Sallad fostered a level of respect between and among school personnel, students, parents, and the community. Her ability to build and maintain professional relationships was advantageous in her efforts to ensure student success through improvements in educational processes. Her experiences at the elementary and high school levels have given her a greater perspective regarding the social, emotional, and academic challenges students face in today’s society.
As a professional learning and instructional leader, Dr. Sallad keeps herself abreast of the latest educational trends and research that impact student achievement. She values a thorough analysis of data and processes involved in developing, implementing, analyzing, and reflecting upon curriculum, instruction, and student progress. She firmly believes in teachers embracing the use of research, analysis of various forms of data, and professional learning as tools of empowerment to promote student success as well as acquire and sustain roles as Teacher Leaders.
Dr. Sallad is a firm believer in public education and life-long learning. As a high school student, her love for public speaking was cultivated through her participation on the Washington County High School Debate Team. Her Fine Arts participation included girls’ trio, choir, and home economics/child development, as well. Memories of her senior year include winning 2nd place in the AAA Regional Debate Tournament and 1st place in Georgia’s State Literary Event Competitions.
Dr. Sallad earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in the area of Early Childhood Education from Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, Georgia. To enhance her knowledge and skills in teaching small children, she earned a Master of Science Degree in the area of Early Childhood Education from Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, Georgia. After receiving encouragement to pursue a career in administration from her principal, she obtained her leadership certification and Educational Specialist Degree in the area of Educational Leadership from Troy State University, Phenix City, Alabama. Dr. Sallad took a break from higher education, but not from professional learning. She continued her passion for acquiring knowledge regarding new programs and instructional strategies through participation in High Schools That Work, Georgia Association of Secondary School Principals, and Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement conferences and training. Networking with educators across the state led her to pursue and earn her Educational Doctorate Degree in the area of Educational Leadership from Argosy University, Sarasota, Florida. Presently, she continues her zeal for life-long learning through continued membership and participation in professional organizations.
Dr. Sallad’s leadership flourished through her experiences as the administrator of the Baldwin High School Freshman Academy. Her creativity, organization, communication skills, and ability to guide teachers, students, and parents through change led to the Freshman Academy’s success. Through her collaborative efforts with teachers, students, and community stakeholders, she designed and implemented transitional activities, parental involvement and awareness sessions, and celebrations of student success. These efforts impacted student achievement and resulted in 9th grade retention rates dropping from 40% prior to the existence of the Freshman Academy to 12% during the 2006 school year. The success of Baldwin High School’s Freshman Academy is known among Small Learning Communities throughout the state, and the academy has welcomed many visitors as well as a principal from New Zealand and college professor for Georgia College and State University.
Dr. Sallad owes much to her parents and her hometown community. Born and educated in the Washington County School District, she and her twin sister (who is also a successful school administrator) spent their childhood participating in church activities. Her initiative and drive was apparent, even then. She utilized her unique ability to connect, communicate, and collaborate as she served as pianist/director of community and church choirs, led Christian youth activities, and assisted the elderly. Her passion for education, learning, and public service comes from examples set by her mother who taught her the value of seizing ever opportunity to learn and using acquired knowledge to serve humanity. She has continued those efforts as a Children’s Church teacher at Beulahland Bible Church, Macon, Georgia and Kids for Christ coordinator at Straight Street Ministries, Inc., Milledgeville, Georgia.
In addition to devotion to her profession, Dr. Sallad is a devoted wife of eight years and mother of two adorable sons. For Dr. Sallad, mediocrity has never been and will never be an option; she will continuously strive for excellence. Her favorite quote: “Excellence can be obtained if you care more than others think is wise, if you risk more than others think is safe, if you dream more than others think is practical, and if you expect more than others think is possible.”--Anonymous