Assistant principals of every successful school often work behind the scenes, creating the systems and support structures that allow students and teachers to thrive. Today, we shine a spotlight on six exceptional educational leaders who represent the best of what it means to be an assistant principal in America’s schools.
NASSP has announced the finalists for the 2025 National Assistant Principals of the Year, recognizing three outstanding middle level leaders and three high school leaders who have made remarkable contributions to their school communities.
“While often working behind the scenes, assistant principals build the foundation for student success,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “They create safe environments, mentor teachers, connect with families and solve problems before they become crises. It’s an honor to celebrate these finalists who are the driving force behind their thriving school communities and student success.”
Middle Level Finalists
Julie Johnson has been an associate principal of Central Middle School in Wayzata, MN, for the past four years. Previously, she spent a decade in Mounds View Public Schools as a middle school math teacher, early college preparation instructor, math Interventionist, and instructional strategies facilitator. During her tenure at Central, she has spearheaded the creation of MyTime, a flexible learning program, and organized the school’s first two cultural showcases. She has led the building leadership team in strengthening PLC practices, embedding literacy strategies schoolwide, and enhancing professional learning on formative assessments, engagement strategies, and data-driven decision-making.
Elizabeth Nelson has served as associate principal of Pilgrim Park Middle School in Elm Grove, WI, since 2020. Previously, she was dean of students at Whitnall High School and taught sixth grade. She is deeply committed to fostering student leadership, belonging, and academic success. Under her leadership, Pilgrim Park offers 35 student-driven clubs, creating opportunities for connection and leadership. She established a behavior management leadership team that redefined expectations and supports, leading to a 40% reduction in behavior referrals. Additionally, she developed a student support structure focused on early intervention and is spearheading the implementation of the Check and Connect engagement program. Her work has contributed to a 12% increase in student-reported belonging and significant academic growth, earning the school a “Significantly Exceeds Expectations” rating on the state report card for two consecutive years.
Justin Tucker is an assistant principal of Batesville Middle School in Batesville, IN, where he has dedicated six years to nurturing a positive learning environment. Previously, he was the assistant principal of Batesville High School. In 2021, he was recognized as the Indiana Association of School Principals District 10 Assistant Principal of the Year. He has made an impact at Batesville Middle by focusing on developing strong procedural operations in the areas of school safety, special education, discipline, and alternative education. He strives to create a supportive and enriching educational experience for all students.
High School Finalists
Dan Beck, EdD, has served as assistant principal of Upper St. Clair High School in Pittsburgh, PA, since 2013. Previously, he taught secondary English and freshman seminar. He is deeply committed to leveraging student voice initiatives to cultivate a sense of belonging within the school community. In 2020, he was named the Pennsylvania Association of Student Councils Principal of the Year.
Rahsaan “Saani” Perry is an assistant principal of West Florence High School in Florence, SC, where he has achieved notable success in both academic growth and community engagement. He has spearheaded the expansion of the STEM magnet program, which has grown by over 60 students, introduced eight new courses, and added four new faculty members. He initiated several key programs, including the Shining Knights program, which recognizes students for excellence in leadership, arts, athletics, academics, and community service. He introduced Wellness Weekends, offering students and staff an opportunity to focus on mental and physical health by taking a break from academic and professional responsibilities. He also founded the Sharper Knights male mentoring program to provide guidance and support for students.
La Faye Howard, EdD, is an assistant principal of Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, MD. Previously, she was an English teacher, department chair, and staff development teacher. Her core values are excellence in learning through successful instructional practices, equity in access and supports, and building positive relationships. She has spearheaded work around race and equity by promoting awareness, inclusivity, and support through implementing No Place for Hate campaigns, Learning for Justice resources and schoolwide student and staff learning in the Winston Churchill High School culture playbook. As an instructional leader, she recognizes and facilitates discussions around good first instruction, coaching and feedback to promote reflection, and continuous improvement.
What Makes These Leaders Stand Out?
The most striking quality about this year’s finalists is their commitment to building truly inclusive school communities. From cultural showcases to equity initiatives, these leaders understand that belonging is a prerequisite for academic success.
They’ve also demonstrated remarkable innovation in how they approach student support. Whether they’ve focused on reducing behavior referrals through thoughtful systems, or acknowledging the importance of mental health, or prioritizing student voice, all these school leaders deeply understand what today’s students need to thrive.
The two winners will be announced at a gala celebration April 11. National Honor Society Scholarship finalists, the National Association of School Councils Scholarship winners, and State Assistant Principals of the Year for middle level and high school, will also be honored then.
For more information about the National Assistant Principal of the Year program, visit nassp.org/apoy.