2006 Outstanding Rural Building Administrator
Kenneth Kelso
Launch the media gallery 1 playerKenneth Kelso has dedicated the last thirty-one years to the education of America's youth with the last nineteen as the elementary and secondary principal at the Bevier C-4 School District. Like many rural administrators, he has had many job titles. Not only serving as the elementary, middle school and high school principal, he has taken on the role as the athletic director, cafeteria supervisor, building maintenance and custodian supervisor.
Through Mr. Kelso's guidance, he has maintained and improved many existing programs. His openness to new ideas has allowed for many positive approaches to instruction. During Mr. Kelso's employment with the Bevier school district, he has been involved in an elementary building addition, an increase in staff, and an increase in student population. Under his leadership, the district was recognized for performance with distinction awards and has been fully accredited during all MSIP reviews.
Kenneth is liked and respected by the faculty and students alike. He has a great rapport with all the stakeholders of the district. One staff member remarks, "I have worked under several other principals, but Mr. Kelso is incomparable in his leadership ability and his human relations skills. I consider myself very fortunate to have been able to work under him for the past 19 years."
Mr. Kelso leads by example, from his appearance to his actions, whether during the school day, at school activities, or any other time. He is an educator for rural students because he "gets it" when it comes to students' needs and what it takes to transform these students into successful young adults that will be a contribution to society.
One describes his strongest attribute is working with students, helping them academically and resolving discipline issues. To this end, he has established a mutual respect with students through his consistent handling of situations. This consistency sets the tone for a positive teaching and learning environment.
His primary goal has always been to provide that environment that will allow students and teachers to achieve their maximum potential. Ask any student or staff member at Bevier and they will tell you, Mr. Kelso is an awesome principal and deserving of Missouri's Outstanding Rural Building Administrator for 2006