2026 NGSS Application
The application window for the 2026 NGSS program is now open!
Apply by January 31, 2026.
Selection & Criteria
Each year, recognized schools are selected by the NAESP National Gold Star School Advisory Committee, comprised of NAESP National Distinguished Principals from each NAESP zone.
Elementary and middle-level principals and assistant principals who are current members of NAESP may nominate their school for National Gold Star School recognition. The school must demonstrate evidence of outstanding contributions and support to the program’s three main pillars.
Criteria established by NAESP requires that:
The school’s nominating principal or assistant principal must be a current member of NAESP at the time of nomination and maintain membership through the school’s NAESP recognition event.
The school’s principal must have a minimum of five years’ experience as a principal and have served at the applying school for the previous three school years.
Nominated schools must be in good standing with all local, state, and federal ordinances.
Nominated schools must demonstrate evidence of outstanding practices supporting the three pillars of NGSS.
Anyone currently holding a position on the NAESP Board of Directors or the NGSS Advisory Committee are ineligible to apply while in that role.
Honored NGSSs may not apply again for 5 years after receiving the award.
For questions or more information, contact us at ngss@naesp.org.