The National Association of Secondary School Principals’ 2026 National Principals of the Year were announced at a gala celebration in Washington, D.C., on April 19.
2026 National Middle Level Principal of the Year
Sonia Ruiz, Illinois
Sonia E. Ruiz is in her fourth year as the principal of Jane Addams Middle School in Bolingbrook, IL, where she leads with a focus on belonging, equity, and shared leadership. She has dedicated her career to ensuring that every student learns at high levels in safe, supportive, and inclusive school communities. Under her leadership, Jane Addams has earned Exemplary Status for three consecutive years, placing the school in the top 10% of schools in Illinois. She believes a strong school culture is built through relationships, belonging, and collective responsibility. She has strengthened systems that support academic growth, social-emotional well-being, and equity for all learners. She serves as the Illinois Principal Association’s Diversity and Equity Chair.
2026 National High School Principal of the Year
Jason Johnson, North Carolina
Jason Johnson is the principal of Orange High School in Hillsborough, NC, and the North Carolina Principal of the Year. With more than 25 years in education, he has served as a teacher and leader in Chatham and Guilford County Schools and as a school transformation coach with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. He first led Orange High from 2012–2016 and returned as principal in 2021, reaffirming his commitment to the school community. A two-time Orange County Principal of the Year (2010, 2025), he has also served on the district’s Equity Task Force. His “lead with love” philosophy drives his focus on equity and academic growth for all students.
SEE NASSP’S PREVIOUS NATIONAL PRINCIPALS OF THE YEAR IN ACTION.