NAESP Recognizes 29 Assistant Principals as National Outstanding AP's

Twenty-nine school leaders from across the nation have been recognized by the National Association of Elementary School Principals as part of the 2026 class of National Outstanding Assistant Principals, highlighting the critical role assistant principals play in supporting students, staff, and school communities.

The annual honor celebrates assistant principals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, foster positive school climates, and drive meaningful academic outcomes. This year’s cohort includes 24 elementary school assistant principals, four middle-level leaders, and one K–8 assistant principal, representing a diverse cross-section of schools nationwide.

“Assistant principals play a pivotal role in driving schoolwide improvement and establishing the foundation for educational excellence,” said NAESP Executive Director L. Earl Franks. “Their leadership fosters supportive, student-centered environments where academic achievement and emotional well-being can flourish.”

Each honoree was nominated by peers and selected for their ability to lead with impact—improving school systems, supporting educators, and building strong relationships with families and communities. Recipients must have at least two years of experience in the role and be active members of NAESP.

The recognition comes during National Assistant Principals Week, a time dedicated to celebrating the often behind-the-scenes leadership that assistant principals provide every day in schools across the country. Each year, AFSA partners with NAESP and the National Association of Secondary School Principals to highlight the leadership and impact of school administrators during the week. This annual recognition underscores the essential role assistant principals play in shaping positive school communities and driving student success.

Meet the 2026 Class

This year, NAESP recognizes 24 elementary school assistant principals, four middle-level assistant principals, and one K–8 assistant principal from across the country. Recipients have shared best practices that have helped improve processes at their schools and strengthen their leadership.

  • Erica Cruthirds, Florence B. Mathis Elementary, Alabama
  • Robert Fitzgerald, Leverett Elementary, Arkansas
  • Renee Dahl, Monterey Elementary, Colorado
  • Lea DiStefano, Eli Whitney Elementary, Connecticut
  • Eric Basilo, Markham Woods Middle, Florida
  • Wesley Cooper, Morgan County Elementary, Georgia
  • Samantha Bradley, South Forsyth Middle, Georgia
  • Jenna Valbuena, Kaimukī Middle, Hawaii
  • Aimee Sivak-Wolf, Cardinal Elementary, Iowa
  • Sarah Thomas, Ross Elementary, Kansas
  • Maggie Solis, Williams Elementary, Maine
  • Briana Walker, Greensboro Elementary, Maryland
  • Rhoda Nuñez-Donnelly, Murray Hill Middle, Maryland
  • Kysha Crenshaw, Winans Elementary, Michigan
  • Nicki Magaard, Wilson Elementary, Minnesota
  • Marrion Winders, Pierce Street Elementary, Mississippi
  • Scott Rivera, Shirley A. Barber Elementary, Nevada
  • Kimberly Freccero, North Londonderry Elementary, New Hampshire
  • John Trotta, Polk Street School, New York
  • Bekah Mulligan, Cullowhee Valley School, North Carolina
  • Megan Diemert, Willow Park Elementary, North Dakota
  • Margaret Ploof, Freedom Elementary, Oklahoma
  • Kristal Stefanov, Bethany Elementary, South Carolina
  • Kayla Pesce, Nolan Elementary, Tennessee
  • Mandi Vogel, Blackland Prairie Elementary, Texas
  • Jordan Warner, Saratoga Shores Elementary, Utah
  • Maci Lane, Emerald Hill Elementary, Virginia
  • Teresa Schultz, Southworth Elementary, Washington
  • Elizabeth Streubel, Wilson Elementary, Wisconsin