2020 Trailblazer Award Recipient
She earned her B.A., M.A., and Ed.D. from WMU. With the HIL Project, Dr. Reeves and her team are developing a new paradigm for improving schools. Traditionally, educational change has focused on “implementation fidelity,” or how faithfully a change initiative is carried out, and the HIL project takes a new and different direction by additionally focusing on “implementation integrity,” or the best things to do given a school’s current status. The approach honors the contexts of schools and recognizes that an implementation gap occurs when a one-size approach is taken. This appreciative, strength-based model as opposed to a deficit model has been received by schools as a breath of fresh air.
Dr. Reeves’ leadership impacts not only the 150 schools where the HIL Project is currently engaged, but also has a ripple effect across the state of Michigan where it is affecting administrative growth through the development of the School Advance tools and is affecting the new Michigan Continuous Improvement Process which will affect all schools in Michigan.
Quote from nomination
“Dr. Reeve’s work with the HIL project is not simply a testament to her innovation, but a benefit to all those around her, as she and the project serve as catalysts for meaningful learning and research. She is blazing a trail in principal preparation and school renewal efforts across the nation.”- Dr. LaSonja Roberts, supporting letter
About this award
This award recognizes a single faculty member or team of faculty who engage(s) in innovative scholarship (which may include but is not limited to creative activity, research, program development, software development or other scholarly pursuits) which impacts the discipline.
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About the College of Education and Human Development
As the cornerstone of Western Michigan University, the College of Education and Human Development continues to build upon its rich tradition of excellence by facilitating the preparation and growth of pre K-12 teachers, human service professionals, innovative designers, and health and wellness specialists. Learn more about the programs offered from the College of Education and Human Development.