Kruse Elementary School Principal Rosie Prusz was recognized as one of eight National Distinguished Principal nominees by the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) at the organization's annual conference.

Each year, TEPSA recognizes one National Distinguished Principal from the elementary school level. Mentoring Minds and Horace Mann sponsor the Texas program. Criteria for selection of the principals are set by the National Association of Elementary School Principals and the U.S. Department of Education.

Prusz has served as principal at Kruse since 1997. During her time at the school, the campus has received several recognized ratings from the Texas Education Agency. She has also implemented many programs geared toward increasing student achievement, including the school's after-school program.

In 2005, Prusz was honored for her contributions to the success of students as she was selected as a statewide finalist for the H-E-B Principal of the Year award. She was also recognized as Pasadena ISD's Region 4 Principal of the Year that same year.

Prusz is relentless in the pursuit of grants for her school. Some of the major grants the school has received over the years include a Comprehensive School Reform Grant for $600,000, a 21st Century Community Learners Grant for $330,000 and a Capital Investment Grant for $50,000.

"Rosie's devotion to students is unmatched," said Vicki Thomas, Pasadena ISD's deputy superintendent. "She is an instructional leader who dedicates her life to the academic, social and emotional well-being of children."

Since 1917, TEPSA has served Texas principals and supervisors. TEPSA has more than 5,300 members. These administrators supervise 153,000 teachers who direct the activities of 2.3 million Pre-K-8 school children.