Santa Maria Sun / School Scene

Santa Barbara County superintendent Cirone wins top award

The state’s top superintendents consider Santa Barbara County Superintendent Bill Cirone a champion. The California County Superintendents Educational Services Association recognized Cirone with the 2012 Champion’s Award earlier this month.

The award is given each year to an individual who is considered “a champion of public education and the students of California.”

“I consider it a privilege to serve as county superintendent. I also consider it a responsibility to speak out about the critical issues facing education in my county, in our state, and in the nation,” Cirone said in a prepared statement. “I share the Champion’s honor, which comes as a complete surprise, with all of you for your passionate, skillful, and tireless work as advocates for children and their education. Working effectively, under less than ideal conditions, you are the true community champions and heroes.”