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NAESP congratulates the 63 principals from across the nation and abroad who make up the 2009 class of National Distinguished Principals (NDP). On Oct. 22 and 23, the award-winning principals traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend a two-day event that included a reception at the U.S. Department of State and a White House tour, and culminated in a black-tie awards program featuring an address by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

The NDP program, which promotes educational excellence for pre-K-8 schooling and calls attention to the fundamental importance of the school principal, is sponsored by the National Association of Elementary School Principals in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Education and in corporate partnership with VALIC. Lifetouch National School Studios is the official program photographer.

Watch video of Duncan’s address to the award-winning principals where he called principals the CEOs of the education world and recognized the important role they play in the education system.

View photos of the NDPs as they share their stories and attend orientation, a reception at the U.S. Department of State, a White House tour, and the awards dinner and dance.

Gain a first-hand account of the NDP program by following the NDP guest blogger on NAESP’s blog, the Principals’ Office.

Find out more about NDPs from your state, as well as program information and how to nominate a principal.

Read about NDPs in the news.

Order personalized NDP items for yourself or for NDPs you know. Items include collectibles such as business card holders, paper weights, and a rocking chair.