As principal of Hannah Ashton Middle School in Reynoldsburg, Doug Gillum has instituted a professional development strategy that is both diagnostic and prescriptive. With the elimination of special education labels for students, the roles of special education teachers have been redefined to be intervention specialists, supporting any student in need of academic assistance. Five years ago, under the leadership of Mr. Gillum, Ashton Middle School was able to implement the HEART program - Helping Early Adolescents Reach the Top. A collaborative effort with the local vocational school, the program has worked closely with twelve students at risk of dropping out. As a result of the program, all twelve students have remained in school. An additional initiative of Mr. Gillum includes an effort to integrate technology into his school's curriculum.
