Principal Sackett brings love to Cambridge School

You hear a lot about educational philosophies and they all have their points. But, in the opinion of Nebraska's rural and community elementary principal of the year, the most important educational incentives are love and caring.

"It is through love and caring that we as parents, teachers and principals gain our children's trust, and that is the first step towards achievement in school and in life," says Don Sackett, the 2004 selection as "Outstanding Elementary Principal." He was chosen for the award from a statewide slate of candidates by the Nebraska Rural and Community Schools Association.

While it was Mr. Sackett who was called forward to receive the award, he says he should have been joined at the podium by the entire Cambridge school and community.

"We are a family," he said,"a family of people in the home, in the school and in the community."

When the Sacketts moved from David City 15 years ago for Don to take over the grade school principal's job in Cambridge, they thought it would only be for a few years. After seven years in McCook and ten in David City, the Sacketts saw this as another step on their career path.

But, once Don, wife Leanna and daughter Sara became immersed in the Cambridge community, they decided this is where they wanted to finish out the educational journey.

So much has happened in the proud and united community, including statewide recognition for Cambridge students in both academic and athletic arenas.

Now, looking back, Don is grateful for how the field of education has enriched his life. While working on his administrative certification in Seward, he worked with a student whose project was chosen for the space shuttle. At Cambridge, he has had a coaching role on state championship teams, and he has been honored with teaching and coaching awards at all the places he has served in educational capacities.

In nominating him for the Outstanding Principal Award, a member of the Cambridge Board of Education wrote, "His leadership is exemplary, his attitude refreshing and his results undeniable." Another Cambridge board member tells why Mr. Sackett has accomplished so much. "He brings love, kindness and caring into our school and has a tremendous belief in each child."

Cambridge is fortunate to have a principal with Don Sackett's commitment. And, Don Sackett, in turn, is fortunate to have a community of Cambridge's caliber in which to serve as an educator.