ERDI honors three education leaders for leadership and mentorship

The Education Research and Development Institute recognized three district leaders at its 2026 Summer Institute in Highwood, Illinois, honoring careers focused on student success, leadership development, and mentorship. The awards also include donations and a scholarship tied to each recipient's recognition.

Why it matters: - ERDI's annual awards highlight leaders whose work affects schools beyond their own districts. - The honors also channel money toward education-related causes and professional growth, extending the impact of the recognition.

What happened: - ERDI recognized three district leaders at the 2026 ERDI Summer Institute in Highwood, Illinois. - Dr. Raymond González received the Mike Kneale Excellence in Education Award. - Dr. Kimberley Markus received the Gerald E. Dawkins Leadership Builder Award. - Anna Strassner received the Kathy Hurley Distinctive Mentor Award. - ERDI President and CEO Dr. Jennifer Ferrari said the awards reflect the values of the ERDI community and honor professionals who elevate others and improve education for students and communities.

The details: - The Mike Kneale Excellence in Education Award was established in 2001 by Mike and Patty Kneale. - The award recognizes superintendents whose leadership reflects vision, integrity, and commitment to student success. - Dr. Raymond González serves as superintendent of Westfield Public Schools in New Jersey and was named the 2026 New Jersey Superintendent of the Year. - González's career has included work as a teacher, principal, district leader, and superintendent. - Patty Kneale will donate $5,000 in González's name to an organization or initiative of his choice. - The Gerald E. Dawkins Leadership Builder Award honors leaders who develop future education leaders. - Dr. Kimberley Markus has worked at the district, state, and national levels. - Markus previously served as a district leader and as Commissioner of Education for New Jersey. - A $2,000 leadership scholarship will be awarded to an emerging leader chosen by Markus. - The Kathy Hurley Distinctive Mentor Award recognizes people who invest in others through generosity, connection, and mentorship. - Anna Strassner is a longtime ERDI member and industry leader. - Strassner was recognized for building authentic relationships and sharing time and expertise across the education community. - ERDI said Strassner's example shows mentorship through everyday encouragement and support. - ERDI describes itself as a professional learning community for education leaders, solution providers, researchers, and industry experts focused on PK–12 education. - ERDI says its convenings, research initiatives, and ongoing engagement advance innovation, responsive leadership, and partnerships that strengthen public education. - More information is available on ERDI's website.

Between the lines: - ERDI's awards are not just symbolic; they pair recognition with direct support for another organization, an emerging leader, or professional development. - The mix of honorees suggests ERDI values both district-level leadership and the less visible work of mentorship and relationship-building. - The emphasis on collaboration across the education ecosystem points to a broader strategy of connecting practitioners, researchers, and vendors around school improvement.

What's next: - Patty Kneale's donation will go to an organization or initiative selected by Dr. González. - Dr. Markus will choose the recipient of the $2,000 leadership scholarship. - ERDI is expected to continue using its Summer Institute and national community to spotlight education leaders and reinforce its network.