Each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Department of State Office of Overseas Schools, and the Department of Defense Education Activity will select one middle level and one high school principal to represent their state. State winners are selected from applications submitted to the state associations.
Each state’s selection process and deadlines vary. Application information for each state may be found by contacting your state affiliate.
2025 State Principals of the Year
2025 Alabama Principal of the Year
Mathew Epps
Career Technical Education Center
Mathew G. Epps, EdD, is the principal of the Career Technical Education Center in Columbiana, AL. He began his career as a fifth-grade teacher and basketball coach before advancing to leadership roles, including assistant principal and career tech director. An advocate for student voice and achievement, he supports student-led initiatives such as ambassadors, community engagement groups, and events like multicultural night and kindness week. He champions teacher leadership, fostering professional growth through leadership opportunities and feedback to promote student achievement. He has expanded work-based learning and cultivated a culture of empowerment, inclusion, and real-world readiness.
2025 Arkansas Principal of the Year
Jonathon Guthrie
Bentonville West High School
2025 California Principal of the Year
Efa Huckaby
Liberty High School
Efa Huckaby is the principal of Liberty High School in Brentwood, CA. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for creating systems that drive both academic and cultural transformation. At his previous school, Ygnacio Valley High School, he helped launch a PBIS-aligned “Week of Welcome,” reducing tardies by over 50%, and he played a key role in helping the school achieve IB World School status. At Liberty, he has championed the expansion of AP and dual enrollment courses, with a 20% increase in AP participation, especially among special education students. He also serves on the Association of California School Administrators Region 6 Board and the North Coast Section Executive Committees.
2025 Colorado Principal of the Year
Terita Walker
Denver East High School
Terita Walker has served as the principal of East High School in Denver, CO, for four years. She has transformed the school into a model of inclusivity, academic excellence, and student empowerment. Through intentional leadership and a deep commitment to equity, she has fostered a culture where students and staff thrive. Recognizing that a strong school culture is built on trust and relationships, she prioritizes direct engagement with students, staff, parents, and the community. She hosts monthly coffee chats for parents and staff, engages regularly with the school’s more than 90 affinity groups, and co-hosts events with the East Angel Foundation. She credits the school’s success to the incredible students, dedicated leadership team, committed staff, supportive parents, engaged alumni, district partners, and the greater East community.
2025 Connecticut Principal of the Year
Terra Tigno
Newington High School
Terra A. Tigno has served as principal of Newington High School in Newington, CT, since 2017. Previously, she was the assistant principal. A 1988 Newington graduate, she is a dedicated and transformative leader who exemplifies what it means to lead with heart, vision, and an unwavering commitment to student success. She operates under the “Family of Learners” mantra that she introduced and models daily. She has established the KISS (Kindness Is Something Simple) Club, SAFE (Sharing Anonymously for Everyone’s safety) boxes/forms, and the Spotlight on Excellence Awards. Under her leadership, Newington boasts the third-largest number of students enrolled in dual enrollment courses in the state. She shares this award with the incredible staff, resilient and strong students, and supportive community that make Newington High School such a special place.
2025 Delaware Principal of the Year
Anthony Gray-Bolden
Cab Calloway School of the Arts
Anthony Gray-Bolden is the principal of Cab Calloway School of the Arts in Wilmington, DE. Under his leadership, the school has earned national honors, including being named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2022 and an AP Governor’s School of Excellence in 2024. A Girard Academic Music Program alumnus and former semi-pro basketball player, he is a West Chester University Hall of Fame inductee and holds multiple degrees. A SPHINX LEAD fellow and Arts Schools Network board member, he champions arts-integrated learning.
2025 DoDEA Principal of the Year
Miles Shea
Quantico Middle High School
2025 Florida Principal of the Year
Michael George
Atlantic Coast High School
Michael George, EdD, is the principal of Atlantic Coast High School in Jacksonville, FL, the largest high school in Duval County. In 2024, the school became the only A-rated Title I comprehensive public secondary school in the district. An innovator and stubborn advocate for all students, he established a first-of-its-kind partnership with the Mayo Clinic to launch the Mayo Medical Pathway at Atlantic Coast and collaborated with Impact Florida to create a universal AP program for incoming ninth graders. After starting his education career teaching in Ghana, he taught social studies, served as a dean of students at Martin Luther King High School in Philadelphia, and became a chief operating officer and principal in New Orleans.
2025 Georgia Principal of the Year
Lindsey Allen
Walnut Grove High School
Lindsey Allen has served as principal of Walnut Grove High School in Walnut Grove, GA, since 2020. Previously, he was the principal of multiple schools and executive officer of secondary schools in Bibb County. Since taking the helm at Walnut Grove, he has led the school to a five-star rating from the Georgia Department of Education on the School Climate Star Rating and secured AP Honor School recognition in five categories: AP Expansion, Humanities, Humanities Achievement, STEM, and STEM Achievement. The school has also been awarded the PBIS Distinguished designation and most recently earned the Math Leader recognition from the state for outstanding student growth and achievement on the Georgia Milestones. His leadership is marked by innovation, high expectations, and a relentless focus on student success.
2025 Hawaii Principal of the Year
Lorelei Aiwohi
Kaimuki High School – DOE Hawaii
Lorelei Aiwohi is the principal of Kaimuki High School in Honolulu, HI. Previously, she was a middle and elementary school principal. Her diverse experience also includes serving as a teacher recruiter for the Hawaii State Department of Education. At Kaimuki, her visionary and data-driven leadership has yielded remarkable results. Under her guidance, the school successfully exited its status as a Comprehensive Support and Improvement school, demonstrating significant improvements in math, English language arts, and science state assessments. Her strategic initiatives have led to a 17% increase in the graduation rate, empowering more students to achieve their academic goals and prepare for future success.
2025 Iowa Principal of the Year
Nicole Roder
Rock Valley Community Schools
Nicole Roder has served as the high school principal of Rock Valley Community School District in Rock Valley, IA, since 2009. Previously, she was a high school Spanish teach and coach. She is known for her passion for students, exceptional leadership, and commitment to academic excellence. Her resilience in navigating the challenges caused by the 2024 flood that hit Rock Valley was impressive as she helped ensure a successful school year, fostering both recovery and continued success for her students and staff. She approaches challenges with courage and a positive attitude, striving to overcome obstacles and grow from every experience.
2025 Kansas Principal of the Year
Kelly Whittaker
Ottawa High School
Kelly Whittaker has served as the principal of Ottawa High School in Ottawa, KS, since 2018. Previously, she served as an assistant principal of Shawnee Heights High School and Goshen High School in Indiana. She taught special education at the elementary and middle school levels before transitioning to a career as an administrator. Under her leadership, Ottawa’s graduation rate has consistently increased from 80.5% to an average of 95%. She has also implemented a robust advisory program that includes student-led conferences, giving students a voice through the Jostens Renaissance Program, and strengthening the school culture and climate. She credits this success to a phenomenal staff, outstanding students, and community support.
2025 Louisiana Principal of the Year
Amanda Austin
Iberville Math, Science, and Arts Academy
Amanda Austin, EdD, is the director of the Math, Science, and Arts (MSA) Academy East in St. Gabriel, LA. MSA Academy East is the magnet program of East Iberville High School. Previously, she was the principal of North Iberville High School, which had been shuttered for more than a decade. With community support, input from district leadership, and full hiring autonomy, North Iberville is a thriving traditional school with a STEM magnet program. With her recent participation in the Louisiana Superintendent’s Academy and acceptance into ASCD’s Champion in Education cohort, she continuously strives to grow as an instructional leader and expects to lead her school to meet or exceed each student’s individual growth target. Through teamwork with all stakeholders, she believes that all students can and will succeed.
2025 Maine Principal of the Year
Jamie Selfridge
Caribou High School, RSU 39
Jamie Selfridge is the principal of Caribou High School in Caribou, ME. She has led the development of a robust Extended Learning Opportunities program that connects students with real-world experiences through local partnerships. This work has significantly enhanced student engagement and achievement, particularly in a rural setting. An active member and former facilitator of the NASSP Rural School Leaders Network, she contributes to national efforts focused on student-centered leadership and school improvement. In her eight years as an administrator, she thrives on collaboration. She advocates for equity and innovation in rural education and continues to lead with the belief that every student deserves access to high-quality learning experiences that begin with a strong and positive school culture.
2025 Maryland Principal of the Year
Kris Hemstetter
Kent County High School
Kris Hemstetter is the principal of Kent County High School in Butlertown, MD. Previously, she was a middle school English teacher and elementary school principal. Under her leadership, the school has made consistent gains across every major data point, with Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program scores exceeding state averages and a 94.2% graduation rate, placing Kent among Maryland’s top five high schools for graduation success. She also launched the “We RISE Together” initiative to strengthen school culture, expanded internships, and leads one of the state’s top dual-completer programs. She champions student voice through WKHS 90.5, the only student-led FM radio station in Maryland. As President-Elect of the Maryland Association of Secondary School Principals, she initiates advocacy efforts statewide, amplifying principal voice and promoting student-centered policy.
2025 Massachusetts Principal of the Year
Mark Sullivan
Burlington High School
Mark Sullivan is the principal of Burlington High School in Burlington, MA. With a thoughtful, student-first leadership style, he has cultivated an environment defined by respect, inclusion, and teamwork. During his tenure, he has spearheaded innovative initiatives, including cutting-edge academic programs and adaptable support systems such as one-to-one technology integration, flexible scheduling blocks, student-led clubs, and career pathway programs. His calm, steady presence and approachable, open-door policy underscore his unwavering commitment to student well-being and professional development for educators. Known for his humility and authenticity, he continues to nurture a vibrant community where students and educators feel valued, supported, and inspired to thrive.
2025 Michigan Principal of the Year
Adam Lancto
Grandville High School (Grandville Public Schools)
Adam Lancto is the principal of Grandville High School in Grandville, MI. Previously, he served as assistant principal. A visible leader who consistently attends student and community events, he championed students by creating programs such as the Student Voice Committee to help students feel a sense of belonging, and courses that align to the world of work, including auto maintenance and repair, aeronautics, and EMT training, so students can explore college and career opportunities. Under his leadership, he has built a robust MTSS system with a dedicated academic intervention period, a schoolwide PBIS system, and a guaranteed and viable curriculum. These efforts have reduced failure rates and chronic absenteeism, and increased student performance.
2025 Minnesota Principal of the Year
Christian Ledesma
Roosevelt High School
Christian Ledesma is the principal of Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, where he leads with a strong focus on safety, equity, and academic excellence. Returning after the pandemic, he addressed students’ physical and emotional well-being through safety campaigns, increased supervision, and student-led cultural celebrations. Under his leadership, Roosevelt strengthened its partnership with the International Baccalaureate program, emphasizing collaborative planning, professional development, and character education. Ledesma’s leadership has created a culture of care and academic rigor, preparing students to thrive as globally-minded, reflective, and principled members of their communities.
2025 Missouri Principal of the Year
Dave Wedlock
Francis Howell High School
Dave Wedlock, EdD, has served as the principal of Francis Howell High School in St. Charles, MO, since 2013. Previously, he was the associate principal and taught English. Under his leadership in 2017, Francis Howell received National Model Professional Learning Communities School recognition from the Missouri Department of Education. In 2020, the school was also recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School. He attributes the learning community’s success to outstanding students, a phenomenal faculty and staff, and engaged, supportive parents.
2025 Montana Principal of the Year
Erica Schnee
Gallatin High School
Erica Schnee has been the principal of Gallatin High School in Bozeman, MT, since it opened in 2020. Previously, she was the assistant principal and a government and economics teacher. An inspirational and dedicated leader who has prioritized community, culture, and student well-being, she has overseen exponential growth in the community’s multilingual student population. Under her leadership, the school has implemented initiatives resulting in a welcoming environment, high student engagement, and academic success for all students. As an administrator, her open-door policy and mentorship have had a significant impact on staff development, leading to a cohesive team.
2025 Nebraska Principal of the Year
Jerry Mack
Chadron High School
Jerry Mack has served as the principal of Chadron High School in Chadron, NE, for 14 years. Under his leadership, the rural school has often been recognized as one of the top schools in the state according to U.S. News & World Report and Niche.com. He has emphasized restorative practices, supported the integration of technology in instruction, and co-hosted a school leaders podcast. He has spoken at numerous conferences to promote communication and school safety, and he has advocated for including universal mental health student screenings in annual health screenings for all students. He is dedicated to creating a positive, supportive environment for both students and staff. His leadership is defined by his commitment to excellence and deep pride in serving his school community.
2025 Nevada Principal of the Year
Ryan Cordia
Northeast Career & Technical Academy
Ryan Cordia is in his second year as the inaugural principal of Northeast Career and Technical Academy in North Las Vegas, NV. The school is the first in state to implement in-person, self-paced, mastery blended learning, which breaks away from the traditional Carnegie Unit model. As principal, he created a framework for the school where every student receives career coaching and emotional intelligence training each semester. The purpose of this training is to shorten the timeline for students from freshman orientation to revenue generation. Previously, he was named Nevada’s CTE Administrator of the Year and 360Schools’ Principal of the Year.
2025 New Jersey Principal of the Year
Tony Cattani
Lenape High School of the Lenape Regional High School District
Tony Cattani has been the principal of Lenape High School in Medford, NJ, for 18 years. He is recognized for his role in developing a positive and inclusive school culture, where students and staff feel valued and supported. A visionary leader, he has championed professional collaboration, encouraging teachers to grow by learning from their most powerful resource—each other—through more than 3,000 peer observations and collegiality cafes. He models peer observation by sharing best practices with colleagues at multiple New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association conferences. Known as a tireless advocate for students, he consistently places their well-being and academic and personal growth at the forefront of every initiative. His dedication and impact have set a lasting standard for leadership within the Lenape community and beyond. He is also an executive council member of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association.
2025 New Mexico Principal of the Year
Christina Hidalgo
Maxwell Municipal Schools
2025 New York Principal of the Year
Pierre Orbe
DeWitt Clinton High School New York City
Pierre Orbe is the principal of DeWitt Clinton High School in Bronx, NY. Previously, he was a science teacher and an assistant principal. He leads one of the nation’s most historic schools—alma mater to icons like Stan Lee, Ralph Lauren, and James Baldwin. Under his leadership, DeWitt Clinton’s graduation rate has increased from under 46% to more than 97%, with significant equity gains for Black and Hispanic students, English language learners, and students with IEPs. Listening to student and family voices, he has introduced purpose-driven innovations such as a nursing pathway and EMT certifications, a computer science sequence with industry credentials, and college credit-bearing courses. After-school vocational programs in plumbing, electrical, cosmetology, barbering, tattoo design, and culinary arts have provided students with real-world skills and job prospects. He credits this success to a committed staff, empowered students, and a community ready to reclaim its legacy.
2025 North Carolina Principal of the Year
Sonya Rinehart
John A. Holmes High School
Sonya Rinehart is the principal of John A. Holmes High School in Edenton, NC. Previously, she was a secondary social studies teacher, department chair, and beginning teacher support coach. Her involvement with the AP program includes serving as a College Board exam reader and helping to establish international school partnerships. She was the 2008–2009 Northeast Regional Teacher of the Year and the 2024 Wells Fargo Northeast Principal of the Year. Additionally, she has served as a regional education facilitator for Region 1 at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, focusing on recruiting and supporting qualified teachers. She is a member of the department’s ethics committee and serves on the North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals Association Board for Region 1. Her career reflects a deep commitment to educational excellence and community support.
2025 North Dakota Principal of the Year
Mark Andresen
Mandan High School
Mark Andresen is the principal of Mandan High School in Mandan, ND. Previously, he was a science teacher and girls’ basketball coach. In his 21 years as principal of Mandan, he has worked diligently to improve test scores, graduation rates, and dual credit opportunities, as well as to support and implement numerous programs that benefit all students. Most recently, he played a key role in the team that designed, built, and opened Mandan’s new high school. He has also championed equity, creating programs that support Native American students, English learners, and those with special needs. His efforts have led to remarkable increases in graduation rates and a truly inclusive school environment. Perhaps most impressive is his ability to empower both staff and students, building a culture of collaboration and leadership, from teacher teams guiding major changes to students taking on leadership roles in their community. He is the state coordinator for the North Dakota Association of Secondary School Principals.
2025 Oklahoma Principal of the Year
Jason Hayes
Edmond Santa Fe High School (Edmond, OK)
Jason Hayes is the principal of Edmond Santa Fe High School in Edmond, Ok. Previously, he was an assistant high school principal, a middle school principal, and English teacher, and a coach. Under his leadership, Edmond Santa Fe is one of only three Class 6A High Schools (Oklahoma’s large enrollment category) to receive an A on its state report card for the previous two school years. The school has also been named a National Blue Ribbon School during his tenure as principal. He attributes his school’s success to a positive combination of high-achieving students, helpful teachers, engaged parents, and a supportive community that continues to promote and invest in public education.
2025 Oregon Principal of the Year
Erik Lathen
Illinois Valley High School / Three Rivers School District
Erik Lathen is the principal of Illinois Valley High School in Cave Junction, OR. Known for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to student success, he has a proven track record of turning around schools in some of the state’s most underserved communities. His career is defined by a strong set of core values: respect, excellence, and determination, which he instills in students and staff alike. In his seven years as principal at North Valley High School, he successfully elevated the school’s academic performance, increasing the graduation rate from 66% to 93%. His leadership was characterized by the implementation of strategic initiatives focused on student achievement, including improving test scores across all subjects, with English and science scores exceeding state averages. His focus on creating a positive school culture through respect, responsibility, and resilience fostered a community of high expectations and a growth mindset.
2025 Pennsylvania Principal of the Year
Laura Tobias
State College Area High School
Laura S. Tobias is the principal of State College Area High School in State College, PA. Previously, she held several educational leadership roles in Pennsylvania and New York, and she was a finalist for Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year. Under her leadership, U.S. News & World Report has ranked State College in the top one percent of schools in the nation. Tobias has led the school’s notable post-COVID recovery, improving attendance, reducing disciplinary rates, boosting engagement, growing the ninth-grade learning community, and implementing innovative academic and behavioral supports. She has been instrumental in rebuilding school community and equity-focused practices, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative environment. In 2024, the school received the Jostens Renaissance Platinum Award of Distinction. Grateful to work alongside dedicated educators, she credits her success to the unwavering support of her students, colleagues, and family.
2025 Rhode Island Principal of the Year
Susan Craven
Tiverton High School
Susan Craven is the principal of Tiverton High School in Tiverton, RI. Previously, she was the middle school principal, fifth-grade teacher, literacy coach, and teacher leader. Under her leadership, Triverton was recognized by the Rhode Island Department of Education for the largest improvement of SAT scores and the highest graduation rate in the state. As principal, she works to create an environment where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential. She also strives to foster a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and academic excellence. She is grateful for being named Rhode Island Principal of the Year, and believes the award also belongs to the faculty, staff, and students who have dedicated so much to the school community.
2025 South Carolina Principal of the Year
Matt Sherman
Blythewood High School, Richland School District Two
Matt Sherman has been the principal of Blythewood High School in Blythewood, SC, since 2018. Previously, he was a special education teacher who was named teacher of the year. Under his leadership, Blythewood has maintained excellence in academics, athletics, and student engagement. He fosters a culture built on respect, responsibility, and relationships, empowering students and staff to lead, innovate, and grow. His hands-on approach, belief in collective leadership, and dedication to continuous improvement have earned him admiration throughout the community. He’s an active member of the South Carolin Association of School Administrators, helping to shape the future of educational leadership in South Carolina.
2025 South Dakota Principal of the Year
Kelly Messmer
Harding County High School
Kelly Messmer is the principal of Harding County High School in Buffalo, SD. Along with his principal duties, he also serves as the district’s activities director. Previously, he was the district’s technology and testing coordinator. He has been teacher and administrator at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. He strives to ensure every student is treated with respect and given every opportunity to succeed academically and socially. He credits his supportive superintendent, amazing staff, hardworking students, school board, and community for working together to help create a safe and successful learning environment.
2025 Tennessee Principal of the Year
Spencer Long
Halls High School
Spencer Long is the executive principal of Halls High School in Halls Crossroads, TN Knox County. A proud alumnus of Halls, he began his career at Halls as a science teacher and assistant football and baseball coach. He moved into administration with roles as an athletic director and assistant principal. Under his leadership, Halls successfully completed its first year of reorganization as an 865 Academies High School, part of an innovative initiative to better prepare students for college and career pathways. In recognition of his leadership and service to the community, he was named the Halls Business and Professional Association’s Man of the Year in 2023. He currently serves as vice president of the Knox County Schools Association of Secondary School Principals. His leadership philosophy is rooted in servant leadership. He maintains an open-door policy and prioritizes active listening, visibility, and frequent communication with students, staff, families, and the broader community. He believes a principal should be consistently present in classrooms, hallways, the lunchroom, and at extracurricular events to foster strong relationships and a supportive school culture.
2025 Texas Principal of the Year
Dr. Winston McCowan, Jr.
Chisholm Trail High School
Winston McCowan Jr., PhD, is the principal of Chisholm Trail High School in Fort Worth, TX. Previously, he was a principal and assistant principal in other school districts, and a special education teacher and counselor. He has won numerous awards including being named a semi-finalist for the HEB Excellence in Education Principal of the Year. He serves as state coordinator for the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals. He believes deeply in the potential of every student, emphasizing the importance of a positive, engaging learning environment that fosters exploration and motivation. His core belief is that school should be a place where students are excited to attend because when students look forward to learning, they will thrive.
2025 Utah Principal of the Year
Shauna Haney
Ogden High School
Shauna Haney is the principal of Ogden High School in Ogden, UT. Previously, She was an assistant principal and exercise science, health, special education, and physical education teacher. A two-time Teacher of the Year (2008, 2013), she also received a Distinguished Leadership Award in 2014. Under her leadership, Ogden was one of Utah’s first schools to implement a no cell phone policy. Her leadership has also helped retain 90% of her teaching staff post-COVID, due to her focus on positive school culture and recognition of faculty and staff. Ogden is making strong progress on goals in literacy, graduation, PBIS, and talent development, and she credits its success to a dedicated faculty and staff, amazing students, and a supportive community.
2025 Vermont Principal of the Year
Jason Di Giulio
Hazen Union School
Jason Di Giulio, EdD, is the principal of Hazen Union School in Hardwick, VT. He is known for his transformational leadership, particularly in advancing the community schools model in rural Vermont. Under his guidance, Hazen Union has expanded access to mental health services, family engagement programs, and strategic partnerships with local organizations and higher education institutions. Di Giulio’s background as a commissioned Army officer, college and high school educator, and scholar in both poetry and education uniquely informs his inclusive and innovative approach to school leadership. His commitment to equity, collaboration, and whole-child support has positioned Hazen Union as a responsive, student-centered educational institution.
2025 Virginia Principal of the Year
Travis Burns
Northumberland High School
Travis Burns is the principal of Northumberland High School in Northumberland, VA. Previously, he was a social studies teacher, assistant principal, and middle school principal. This school year, Northumberland High was recognized by the Virginia Department of Education as exceeding expectations for growth, achievement, and readiness and was rated a distinguished school. A former president of the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals, he is currently a mentorship consultant working with the Virginia Principal Mentorship Project, a pilot program focused on mentoring principals with a year or less of experience and who are leading federally identified at-risk schools. He has also served on the Virginia Advisory Board on Teacher Education and Licensure, a former governor’s COVID-19 education work group, and several blue ribbon panels for the state department of education.
2025 Washington Principal of the Year
Chelsea Gallagher
Mt. Spokane High School
Chelsea Gallagher is the principal of Mt. Spokane High School in Spokane, WA. Previously, she was a high school English teacher, dean of students, and assistant principal. She knew in third grade that education was her calling, despite a brief childhood dream of becoming a professional ghostbuster. Her commitment to servant leadership has increased graduation rates, enhanced academic success for marginalized groups (particularly multilingual students), improved student belonging, and fostered a collaborative culture. She focuses on using professional learning communities to ensure high levels of learning for every student. She credits her success to the dedicated staff, students, and entire school community for supporting one another as they work together to create a school where everyone wants to be even when they don’t have to be there.
2025 Wyoming Principal of the Year
Chase Christensen
Sheridan County School District #3
Chase Christensen is the superintendent and principal of Clearmont K–12 School in Clearmont, WY. Previously, he was the principal of Torrington High School and a math and business at Wheatland High School. At Clearmont, he has reduced the need for out-of-classroom interventions by strengthening Tier 1 instruction and ensuring all students experience meaningful growth within the classroom setting. He serves as the state coordinator for the Wyoming Association of Secondary School Principals, championing public education and leadership development. Recently, he initiated a statewide apprenticeship program through the association, designed to offer mentorship and potential financial support for aspiring school leaders. Deeply committed to filling the leadership pipeline and advancing equitable school funding, he attributes the district’s success to the unwavering dedication of its teachers, staff, students, and families. He also recognizes the collaborative spirit of Wyoming’s principals in guiding and mentoring the next generation of educational leaders.