Chuck Tansey - KPS Principal, Edison Environmental Science Academy
“We can get this done--let’s figure out how.” It is this “can-do” attitude Chuck Tansey inspires in KCIS staff, partners and KPS staff alike that ignites imagination and determination. As Principal of Edison Environmental Science Academy, Chuck Tansey has been a strong advocate for the services that KCIS provides. This attitude was first demonstrated when he was asked whether he would support a school based health center for his building. The answer was quick and clear---“Bring it on!”
This past year and a half, in particular, he has served as a leader in helping both KCIS staff and board of directors to shape the direction of our efforts. He has helped us unleash the power of the Communities In Schools model of Integrated Student Services. In fact, back at the KCIS office, on any given day if you overhear a staff person ask for specifics on implementing the model, the response will inevitably be, “Just refer to 'The Chuck Book.'"
Principal Tansey uses the CIS model to maximize impact on his school and individual students. He has been a valuable asset to the KCIS Program & Evaluation Committee, providing a link between KCIS organizational goals and the reality of what goes on in a school. He has the ability to translate theory and model into action.
He understands that when Superintendent Dr. Rice says ‘we (KPS) can’t do it alone’ that, as a Principal, he can use KCIS as the link between the community, schools and students. With only so much time and finite resources, he maximizes the model. He does his ‘homework’. For next school year, Principal Tansey has already applied the CIS model and identified 25 students who need tutoring in two academic areas. Deb Yarbrough, KCIS Site Coordinator at Edison says, “I’ve learned to be even more focused and accountable because of working with my Principal. He often asks, 'How does this fit with the model? Who is accountable?' It’s these kind of questions that help me do my job more effectively.”
Chuck Tansey has said that Edison is about making a difference - every day, teachers are instructing and students are learning. He is right. And he is right alongside, and in some cases, ‘ahead of the pack’ in making a difference---in reminding us that in making a difference together, the lines between KPS, KCIS and our community partners begin to blur and we are more like a family.
Chuck Tansey, we thank you for helping students stay in school and succeed in life.