Dr. Austin is the 2025 Louisiana Secondary Principal of the Year.   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.     X - @dr_amandaaustin/ @MSAEastKnights Instagram - @dr_amandaaustin/ @msaeastknights

Lindsey Allen is the NASSP 2025 Georgia Principal of the Year   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. Twitter: @WGHS_Principal    Email - lindsey.allen@walton.k12.ga.us

Dr. Flynn has dedicated over 21 years to the City of Burlington Public School District, beginning his career as a special education teacher.   His move into administration began as a Vice-Principal at Burlington City High School (2006–2010), followed by a tenure as Principal at Wilbur Watts Intermediate School (2010–2013). Dr. Flynn then returned to Burlington City High School, serving as Principal from 2013 to 2022. He transitioned to the Central Office in 2022, serving as Director of Research/Planning, Evaluation, Operations, and State and Federal Programs before being named Assistant Superintendent in February 2025. He also serves as the District School Safety Specialist and previously coached the Boy’s Basketball team from 2004–2010. Dr. Flynn earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership from Rowan University. His dissertation, "High School Principal's Perception and Experience with Student Voice and Youth-Adult Partnerships," reflects his passion for the topic, which he has presented on at the national level (National Association of Secondary School Principals and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development) and the state level (New Jersey Association of School Administrators). Additionally, Dr. Flynn is a strong advocate for School Zone Safety and student pedestrian safety.

Dr. Mindy Milavsky, principal of Lawrence Middle School in Mercer County, NJ, has dedicated her career to fostering a school environment that promotes compassion, empathy, and kindness. As an educator for over 31 years, Dr. Milavsky has made great strides in providing students with an educational experience that complements high standards in all academic disciplines with a focus on developing students’ social and emotional competencies. This initiative has led to innovative curricula, community service programs, and peer leadership experiences. Under her leadership, Lawrence Middle School has received 9 Promising Practice Awards from the Character Education Partnership and has been identified as a NJ State School of Character. Beyond the school day, Dr. Milavsky serves as an instructor for the nationally recognized NJEXCEL program, inspiring future administrators to lead with heart. In 2023, Milavsky was honored with the titles of NJPSA Visionary Principal of the Year and NASSP New Jersey Principal of the Year, affirming her commitment to empowering students both academically and emotionally. Email mmilavsky@ltps.org Personal and School X/Twitter Tag @mmilavsky, @LMSNation   Personal and School Instagram Tag @milmindy, @lmsnation

Terence Johnson is an assistant principal at Cumberland Regional High School District, New Jersey. Terence Johnson -  New Jersey State Assistant Principal of the Year for 2019 by the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association (NJPSA)/National Association of Secondary School Principals.   Terence shares how his work with the CRHS Freshman Seminar/Senior Mentoring program, along with the positive relationships he has built over the years with his students. The Freshman Seminar/Senior Mentoring program, established at Cumberland Regional under Johnson’s leadership, partners at-risk ninth-graders with role model senior mentors to work together during and outside of class time on character and leadership development, the promotion of positive school culture, and setting and progressing toward the achievement of goals for academic success.   Terence JohnsonAssistant Principal856-451-9400, ext. 256johnson@crhsd.org

Rebecca Belkota is the 2025  New York Middle School Principal of the Year   Rebecca Belkota is the secondary principal of Perry Junior Senior High School in Perry, NY. She has cultivated a school culture rooted in strong relationships, with a focus on mental health and social-emotional learning. She introduced a structured process for data review and established an MTSS team that collaborates weekly to analyze both quantitative data and qualitative feedback from instructional staff to ensure comprehensive support for students and their families. Under her guidance, instructional teams work collaboratively to develop standards-based curriculum, aligning instruction and assessment. She consistently champions innovative teaching and curriculum to create engaging, student-centered learning. Her leadership has resulted in notable improvements in student achievement and a significant increase in graduation rates, reflecting her deep commitment to academic excellence and the holistic success of every student.

After 29 years in public education, including 18 years as a school leader, Todd left his dream job.  As a high school principal, in the neighborhood where he lived, and the high school for all five of his children, Todd stepped away in 2025. Todd Bloomer is currently the Director of School Leadership with the Archdiocese of San Antonio. In this new role, Todd coaches and empowers principals.  Todd shares his experiences of how he managed "You are always the principal" in the community, social media, family, and friends.  Website: https://www.toddmbloomer.com/about-1 Book https://www.toddmbloomer.com/theblueprint   You can follow Todd on every social platform: @toddbloomer - Linkedin  @todd_bloomer_author (Instagram and Tik Tok) @bloomer_sa (X)  email: bloomertodd09@gmail.com   

Jerry Mack is the 2025 Nebraska Secondary Principal of the Year. 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. Email - jerry.mack@chadronschools.net X- @jerry_mack @ChadronHS Instagram - @mackjerrye  and @chadronhs

Erica Schnee is the 2025 Montana Secondary Principal of the Year.  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. Episode Erica shares the following: - How she opened a new school - Utilizing consensus process - Collaborative Leadership Style - Creating School Culture  - "Strong Foundations - Expanding to new Horizons" - X -@GallatinRaptors and @MsSchneeGHS Instagram - @gallatinraptors

Christian Ledesma is the 2025 Minnesota Principal of the Year 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. In this episode Christian shares: - how he grew enrollment 300+ students in 4 years.     - Community events     - Junior Teddy Program     - Academic achievements Backwards planning of student dreams - asking every student their goal after HS, and creating a plan aligned with their goal.  - Walking people through hard stuff Instagram - @Principal_Ledesma Schoo and  @FollowTheTeddy

Kelly Messmer - South Dakota's 2025 Secondary Principal of the Year Kelly Messmer is a dedicated principal in rural South Dakota who is determined to provide his ranching-country students with opportunities that reach far beyond the traditional classroom. Recognizing the challenges of limited access in a rural community, he has brought career education directly to his school through a mobile experience with skilled instructors each semester. Students now have hands-on learning in welding, electrical work, and carpentry—that expose them to skills that not only prepare them for a possible career opportunity but also lifelong applicable knowledge. His vision ensures that, despite geographic barriers, his students have endless opportunities to succeed and thrive 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.   X- @messmerHC kelly.messmer@k12.sd.us  

State Principal of the Year Series - Nevada Ryan Cordia - 2025 Nevada Principal of the YearNortheast 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. Instagram - @northeastcta https://newsroom.ccsd.net/ccsd-administrator-named-2025-state-principal-of-the-year/ (702) 799-7500 (ext. 4101)

Mark Andresen is the 2025 North Dakota Secondary School Principal of the Year. Mark 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.

Terita Walker - 2025 Colorado State Principal of the Year and NASSP National Principal of the Year Finalist.  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. Instagram - @eastangels_madamprincipal Email - twalker@dpsk12.net  

Spencer Long is the 2025 Tennessee Secondary Principal of the Year. 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. Feel free to contact for more information: X- @HHS_MrLong, @HallsHighTN Instagram - @spen_long, @hallshightn Email - spencer.long@knoxschools.org        

Pierre Orbe - New York Secondary Principal of the Year - 2025DeWitt 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. porbe@schools.nyc.gov Location: 100 West Mosholu Parkway South, Bronx NY 10468 Phone: (718) 543-1000  

Proud principal Laura Tobias of State College Area High School, Pennsylvania is an amazing school leader. Laura has created a special place in the shadows of Happy Valley. Her daily positive messages, academic interventions, and learning centers are just the tip of this inspiring conversation.  If you are looking to model your school after a dynamic school leader, look no farther or just listen to this episode.  Pennsylvania Principal of the Year 2025   Contact Mrs. Tobias:E-mail lst13@scasd.orgOffice number 814-272-4074              State College Area High650 Westerly ParkwayState College, PA 16801 X- @LauraTobias18

Dr. Jonathon Guthrie, Proud Principal of Bentonville West High School, Arkansas shares how he and his team opened Bentonville West, which just completed it's 9th year. As part of the State POY Series - Jonathon Guthrie is the Arkansas Principal of the year - 2025.  He led his team to set the culture, hiring the staff, ordering every desk, chair and trash can! Bentonville West High School has seen academic growth and success earlier than some expected with the intention of  "Winning them Over".    Dr. Jonathon Guthrie Bentonville West High School 1351 Gamble RoadCenterton, AR. 72719479-286-9800 jguthrie@bentonvillek12.org  

Miguel Salazar is the principal of Sundown Middle School in Sundown, TX. Previously he was a math teacher, coach, assistant principal, and high school principal. He is dedicated to fostering positive school cultures, promoting equity, and ensuring student success. His leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that a thriving educational community is built upon shared accountability, high standards, and continuous improvement. He champions proactive strategies to cultivate a positive school culture, focusing on building genuine relationships, addressing mental health needs, and celebrating student achievements. He is committed to equipping students with the academic, social, and emotional skills they need to succeed, and credits his staff for their willingness to carry out this vision. 2025 NASSP Finalist for National Middle School Principal of the Year

State Principal of the Year Series - Michigan's Adam Lancto Adam Lancto is the principal of Grandville High School in Grandville, MI and the 2025 Michigan Secondary Principal of the Year.  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.   X- @AdamLancto81 Instagram -@grandvillehighschool