Shelley Shirel, Principal of Spence Elementary School was named the Midwest Wisconsin Reading Council Administrator of the Year this week. “This is an award that reflects the hard work of many people around me,” Shirel shared. “I have a dedicated staff that is highly committed to literacy and an outstanding partnership with Viterbo University allows our classroom teachers to work with pre-services teachers and design lessons and strategies that ensure success for all our students.” Shirel came to the School District of La Crosse in 2010 to lead Spence Elementary School. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Cameron University, in Oklahoma, a Masters of Education - Professional Development from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, and an Administrative License and a Director of Instruction License from Viterbo University. “This is a great honor for our school district,” shares Superintendent of Schools Randy Nelson. “Shelley is a great example of an administrative leader that goes above and beyond to do what is needed for student success.”