A Troy educator and school administrator was awarded one of the highest recognitions given out by the Montana Association of Elementary and Secondary School Principals during the Montana Principals Conference in Anaconda on April 5.

W.F. Morrison Elementary School Principal Diane Rewerts said she was humbled to get the award.

“I got pretty choked up,” she said. “I always feel like I probably get a lot of credit for things that the staff has done. I don’t think you can accomplish a lot of things in a school unless you really have a staff that believes in pulling together and working on creating a common culture.”

In the nomination form prepared by staff and administrators, including Superintendent Jacob Francom and Special Education Director Christina Schertel, Rewerts’ leadership is cited as contributing to “an inviting, safe and secure environment where each student feels valued.”

While listing the myriad accomplishments and improvements Rewerts has overseen at the elementary school over the past four years, the letter states that, “She is a great example to all and a leader that leads with patience, humor and hard work.”

Rewerts thinks her experience as a teacher helps her foster the culture she credits to the staff who have bought into it.

“Having spent so many years in the classroom helps me a lot as a principal, because I really know what the teachers are trying to do on a daily basis, and I really have a good feel for what kids need,” she said. “So I think all that experience has been really valuable.”

With about 38 years in education, Rewerts said she had considered retiring after this school year, but has decided to only cut down her hours next year.

“I am just not ready to completely give it up,” she said. “I just enjoy the people too much, enjoy the work too much.”

Rewerts said she feels fortunate every day in her job.

“Every day I walk in and just feel happy to be there,” she said.