Cleveland Schools CEO Receives Nation's Top Urban Educator Award

WASHINGTON, Oct. 23 -- Barbara Byrd-Bennett, the chief executive officer of the Cleveland Municipal School District, has been named this year's recipient of the Richard R. Green Award, which is the highest honor for outstanding contributions to urban education.

The nation's top prize in urban education is given each year by the Council of the Great City Schools, a coalition of the nation's largest urban public school districts, and the ServiceMaster Company in memory of the late Richard R. Green, who headed the Minneapolis and New York City public school systems.

Award-winner Barbara Byrd-Bennett, second from left, holds $10,000 oversize check.

In 1998, Dr. Byrd-Bennett was chosen by Cleveland Mayor Michael R. White to become the school district's first chief executive officer. Under her leadership, the district led a successful effort to pass an $835-million school construction bond issue; improved test scores significantly; stabilized the district's finances; improved bond ratings; and implemented a universal meals program. "She has really provided hope and future for the Cleveland school district," said Council Executive Director Michael Casserly.

As the Green Award winner, Dr. Byrd-Bennett receives a $10,000 college scholarship to present to a deserving high school senior of her choice from the Cleveland Municipal School District or from her high school alma mater.