Principals

A chat with 2025’s National Principal of the Year

Successful leadership involves building a community of trust, pride and collaboration. Here's how this nationally recognized leader is doing just that.

How this principal found her leadership network

Principals often get caught in the "whirlwind" of their school's complexities. This leader relies on her peers for the advice she needs to break free.

How to create professional development that’s meaningful this year

Some of your best knowledge and expertise lies in your own school buildings, says this principal. All you have to do is ask your teachers what they need.

Meet NASSP’s 3 Principal of the Year finalists of 2025

Read up on this year's finalists for one of the most prestigious awards the principalship has to offer.

‘Talking Out of School Podcast’: The principalship requires student-centered leadership

In this episode, we sit down with the NASSP's 2024 National Principal of the Year Andy Farley to learn more about his leadership philosophy and his advice for current and aspiring principals as the role changes.

Why relationships “drive everything” for this Principal of the Year

"When you have a strong sense of confidence in yourself and where you came from, it helps you understand where you’re going," says Farid Johnson, New York's 2024 principal of the year.

What this principal prioritizes in leading a ‘leadership’ school

Lori Colbert, co-principal of the Barack Obama School of Leadership & STEM outside Chicago, says it's all about giving her fourth- and fifth-graders opportunities to practice future-focused leadership skills throughout the school day.

How 2024’s AP of the year is redefining PD for teachers

It's all about bringing teacher voice to the table, explains Courtney Walker, assistant principal at Carrollton High School. Here's how she makes professional learning enjoyable.

Leaning into the pros of leading a rural school

Principal Natalie Page is leaning into the positives of leading a rural school despite the challenges that come with recruiting teachers and providing an expansive curriculum.

Staying sane: Leaders share the ways they de-stress and decompress

The student mental health crisis and high turnover in leadership have tilted the spotlight toward the wellness of K12 leaders. Superintendent Shane McCord, for one, finds his moments of self-care zen by spending time with his family, fishing and—surprisingly or not—doing yard work.