Rex Bolinger, principal at the high school in Angola, Ind., since 1987, is the Teachers College Outstanding Alumnus for the year 2000.

The award is given annually to recognize a Teachers College alumnus who has made significant contributions to the field of education and exhibits the highest standards of a truly dedicated professional educator.

"Few educational leaders in the nation exemplify the moral, academic and caring commitment for all those concerned about education -- colleagues, parents, students, business and community leaders -- than Rex Bolinger," said Roy Weaver, dean of Teachers College.

A 1969 graduate of Winchester (Ind.) Community High School, Bolinger received a bachelor's degree in 1973, a specialist in education degree in 1990, and a doctorate in educational administration in 1992, all from Ball State.

Under his leadership, Angola High School became only the second school in Indiana to be restructured under an intensive four-block schedule and was named Indiana's Most Outstanding Successful High School in 1996-97 and 1998-99. He was named the Indiana High School Principal of the Year for 1997-98.

Bolinger received the Milken Foundation National Award in October 1999.

"As dean, I had the recent privilege of observing Dr. Bolinger recognized by the Milken Family Foundation in Los Angeles as one of the few, most respected and honored educators in the nation," Weaver said. "It was with great pride I shared in this honor, knowing that his impact on others is far beyond measure."

Bolinger has authored several publications on the effects of socioeconomic levels on SAT scores, block scheduling and school restructuring. He has made numerous presentations at regional and national professional meetings. He has served as a consultant to schools in Killeen, Texas, and schools affiliated with the National School Conference Institute in Denver. He has conducted numerous workshops on school restructuring and school-to-work partnerships.

Bolinger is a past member of the Indiana Professional Standards Board and serves on the board of directors of the National Alliance of High Schools. He is a member of the National Association of Secondary School Principals, Indiana Association of School Principals, Midwest Educational Research Association and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

He also is past president of the Angola Parks and Recreation Board, the 1994 chair of the Steuben County United Way Campaign, past secretary to the Steuben County Junior Achievement Board and a past member of the Steuben County AIDS Task Force.

Prior to Angola, he was at Eastside High School in Butler, Ind., serving as principal from 1982-87, assistant principal from 1979-82, athletic director during 1978-79, and a mathematics teacher from 1973-79.

By Marc Ransford, Communications Manager

(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, Weaver may be reached by e-mail at rweaver@bsu.edu or by phone at (765)285-5251.)