Haymon-Morris Middle School Principal Dr. Sheila Kahrs was surprised Wednesday morning when she entered the gym to silence and then the roar of applause.

The secret could be revealed: Dr. Kahrs was the 2009-2010 MetLife/NASSP National Middle School Principal of the Year.

Soon after Dr. Kahrs was interviewed as one of the finalists, Barrow County Superintendent of School dr. Ron Saunders received the call of her selection. Within a couple of weeks, plans for the recognition program came together with gym-filled excitement. Students did the wave as teachers and Central Office staff, school Partners in Education, mentors, instructors and friends of Dr. Kahrs and her husband, Dr. Jim Kahrs, and special guests were in attendance.

While most of Barrow County was award of the recognition at hand, Dr. Kahrs had been away over the Labor Day weekend and was unaware of the all behind-the-scenes preparations which had been under way. Since Dr. Saunders enlisted the help of Priscilla Webb, who was also instrumental in assisting with lining up the supporting letters for Dr. Kahrs’ nomination.

Guests and dignitaries have been anticipating the presentation for days and making preparations behind the scenes for this well-deserved honor.

Joining the school system staff was Steven Pophal, NASSP President; Leisl Bauman, NASSP Recognition Programs Manager; Derrick Kelson, MetLife Divisional Sales Director; Melton Callahan, GAASP; Georgia State School Superintendent Kathy Cox; State Rep. Terry England. Barrow County Board of Education Chairman Bill Bramlett and membres Randall Holland, Mark Still, Connie Wehunt and Lynn Stevens were also in attendance.

Superintendent Cox rallied the students with a cheer of Haymon – Morris, Haymon – Morris, Haymon – Morris and then Dr. – Kahrs, Dr. – Kahrs, Dr. Kahrs. She also presented an engraved plaque on behalf of the State Board of Education.

Also present were numerous friends and family members and fellow Rotary Club of Winder members.

Dr. Saunders said, "I could not think of anyone more deserving for this national recognition that Dr. Sheila Kahrs. She is the perfect example of an administrator who cares for both students and faculty. Her expectations are always high and she expects the best of everyone. She is a strong professional who is not only competent but also caring. She will be an excellent representative of Haymon-Morris Middle School, Barrow County Schools, Georgia and the nation."

Dr. Saunders read letters of recognition from Gov. Sonny Perdue and Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle.

See Carman Peterson’s story and more coverage in the Sunday edition of the Barrow County News. Also look for video to be posted of the ceremony.