Press Releases

Spectrum K12 and Horn, Smith, Wood & Preston Honor First Woman Commissioner of Education in Texas

Towson, MD., 02/14/2008-Dr. Shirley Neely, former Texas Commissioner of Education and longtime Texas educator, was honored at the Women of Educational Distinction Awards February 13, 2008 in Dallas, Texas. The award ceremony, “Ladies Tributes” is sponsored by Spectrum K12 School Solutions, Inc., the nation’s leading provider of special education and IEP management software and Horn, Smith, Wood & Preston, by Texas Superintendent Consulting firm. 

Dr. Neely, a Galena Park, Texas resident, was named the first woman Commissioner of Education for the state Texas Governor Rick Perry in 2004. In 2006, Dr. Neely was also inducted into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame for her outstanding work in the field of education. She has been a committed educator of 35 years and a chief advocate for superior schools with a dedicated focus on ensuring all children are taught the necessary skills needed to become lifelong learners.

“We are honored to recognize Dr. Neely - a life long educator, a national public servant and someone who cares deeply about our children,” stated Jim Marshall, President and CEO of Spectrum K12. “She joins a distinguished list of education visionaries who are committed to raising the profile of education and focus on the needs of children in Texas.” 

The annual Women of Educational Distinction Awards honors individuals and organizations that have “reached out” to impact the achievement of all students with an increased focus on helping disadvantaged and at-risk children and families in our nation. 

“Dr. Neely’s educational leadership and enthusiasm is an inspiration to all future Texas leaders,” said Jenny Preston, of Horn, Smith, Wood & Preston. “Her legacy will continue to motivate and guide future women educational leaders of Texas to strive for excellence everyday.” 

About Spectrum K12 School Solutions
Spectrum K12 School Solutions Inc. is the leading provider of special education and IEP management software serving almost 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population including 20 of the top 100 school districts in the United States. Spectrum K12 helps school districts close the achievement gap for special education and at-risk students through more effective management of the individualized learning process for all students receiving special services or interventions. Spectrum K12 works collaboratively with districts of all sizes to deliver scalable, easy-to-use software solutions that lift the administrative burden from education professionals so they can focus on the most important part of their work: educating children and improving student achievement. For more information visit http://www.spectrumK12.com.