The Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals has selected Lindbergh High School Principal Ron Helms as the 2007 Missouri High School Principal of the Year.

Helms was selected from more than 600 high school principals throughout the state. MASSP Executive Director Jim King will present the award to Helms during the MASSP’s annual Spring Conference at the Lodge of Four Seasons on March 26.

“Dr. Helms was awarded the recognition based on his impact in the areas of collaborative leadership, curriculum, instruction and assessment and personalizing the learning environment,” stated an MASSP recognition letter.

Lindbergh Superintendent Jim Sandfort wrote, “Ron has worked hard to personalize the high school environment, first and foremost, by example. He attends events and activities and he knows his students by name.

“He has worked hard with his staff to be sure each student feels valued and included. Lindbergh High School has evolved under Ron’s leadership into a true professional learning community.”

In a news release, Rep. Jim Avery of Crestwood stated, “Dr. Helms has worked extensively with the local community, parents, teachers and students to find new ways to promote learning at Lindbergh High School. In 2000, he established the committee that created the present commitment, vision and mission of the high school. He has also created the Course Planning Process that encourages students, parents and teachers to work together to develop course schedules that will help students prepare for life outside of high school.”

Helms stated in the release, “I’m truly honored and humbled by this recognition. This is a reflection of the tremendous dedication and cooperative efforts of the Board of Education, students and staff of Lindbergh School District.”

Helms has served as principal of Lindbergh High since 2000. He earned a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in teaching from Southeast Missouri State University. He also earned a master’s degree from Washington University in educational leadership and a doctorate of education in educational leadership at St. Louis University.