Elementary school chief Nevada’s Principal of Year

Monday, Nov. 18, 2002 | 10:14 a.m.

If Roger Bryan Elementary School Principal Carol Bumgarner hasn't received her daily dose of hugs and kisses, there's only one explanation -- she hasn't visited the playground yet.

"You can't be afraid to get close the children, to hug them and let them know you care about them," said Bumgarner, who was selected by the U.S. Education Department as Nevada's Principal of the Year.

"The students need to know they're the most important part of our jobs, the reason we're there."

Bumgarner said the award, co-sponsored by National Association of Elementary School Principals, came as a surprise. The honor, announced last month, is being highlighted by the Clark County School District this week as part of American Education Week.

"There are so many talented principals in the district," Bumgarner said. "I have to credit my staff. They are all wonderful and this award belongs to them, too."

One of the perks of the award was a trip to Washington, D.C., where Bumgarner met winners from other states and attended a gala hosted by Education Secretary Rod Paige.

"It was terrific to meet so many other people who are passionate about educating kids," Baumgarner said. "I came back with a lot of new ideas."

A 29-year veteran of the school district, Bumgarner has opened two new schools, Kirk Adams Elementary School and Bryan, where she has been principal for seven years. Prior to becoming a principal, Bumgarner taught junior high school band.