Two assistant principals have earned one of the highest honors education leadership has to offer. Meet 2025’s NASSP Assistant Principals of the Year.
Elizabeth Nelson, Pilgrim Park Middle School, Elm Grove, Wisconsin
Nelson has been Pilgrim Park’s associate principal since 2020 after serving as the dean of students at Whitnall High School and teaching sixth grade. She is passionate about fostering student leadership, belonging and academic success.
Under her leadership, Pilgrim Park now offers 35 student-driven clubs, creating opportunities for connection and leadership. She also created a behavior management leadership team that has resulted in a 40% reduction in behavior referrals.
Furthermore, she’s created a student support structure centered around early intervention and has pioneered the school’s Check and Connect engagement program. This has led to a 12% increase in student-reported belonging and significant academic growth.
Rahsaan “Saani” Perry, West Florence High School, Florence, South Carolina
Under his leadership, West Florence High School has achieved notable success in both academic growth and community engagement. Perry has spearheaded the expansion of the STEM magnet program, which has grown by more than 60 students, introduced eight new courses and added four new faculty members.
He also initiated several key programs, including the Shining Knights program, which recognized students for excellence in leadership, arts, athletics, academics and community service. Furthermore, Perry introduced Wellness Weekends, which allow students and staff to focus on mental and physical health by taking a break from academic and professional responsibilities.
Finally, he founded the Sharper Knights male mentoring program to provide guidance and support to students.
The announcements capped off National Assistant Principals Week, a time of celebration for those whose work is dedicated to bolstering teachers, motivating students, supporting principals and creating a positive learning community.
“Assistant principals are the unsung heroes of education, working tirelessly behind the scenes to create safe, supportive environments where students can thrive,” NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe said in a public statement.
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