National Distinguished Principal

Distinguished Principals to Be Honored Today

Submitted by vstgerard@naesp.org on Thu, 2010-10-14 09:21

In tandem with National Principals Month, NAESP will recognize 62 elementary and middle school principals for their exceptional school leadership during the Association’s two-day National Distinguished Principals (NDP) program in Washington, D.C.

NDP White House Tour

Submitted by NAESP Principal... on Wed, 2009-10-28 11:43


National Distinguished Principals toured the White House as part of a two-day program.  

Duncan Addresses Nation's Top K-8 Principals

Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 2009-10-25 23:00

In a speech to the 2009 class of National Distinguished Principals (NDPs) on Oct. 23, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan called principals the CEOs of the education world and recognized the important role they play in the education system. “We have no good schools in this country where there’s not a good principal,” he said.
The Education Secretary described in great detail the policy initiatives he wants to pursue over the next three years, painting a picture of an administration dedicated to giving principals and other education leaders the tools they need to dramatically improve the country’s school system. “We have to do everything we can to support you, to nurture the next generation of principals, and to figure out how we share your expertise and passion,” Duncan said.
He also referred to the Department of Education as part of the problem and said internal reform was needed. “We’re trying to move from being a big compliance driven bureaucracy to an engine of innovation.” But Duncan’s address chiefly paid tribute to the 63 NDPs from across the country and abroad who came to Washington for two days to receive recognition for their work and learn about the practices and policies being implemented by their peers. 

Networking + Appreciation = Event of a Lifetime

Submitted by NAESP Principal... on Fri, 2009-10-23 06:29

Where do I begin to tell you about all of the wonderful events that have occurred since I arrived in Washington, D.C. for the National Distinguished Principals (NDP) event of a lifetime? The program began with a slideshow featuring all of the NDPs and two minute speeches given by each NDP—what a challenge to say all we want to about our great staffs, students, and families in two minutes!
Later we dressed up for a welcoming reception at the U.S. Department of State and were greeted by U.S. Department of State Under Secretary for Management Patrick Kennedy. After the reception, I went to Bobby Van’s Steakhouse for dinner with principals from my region. 
Already, I have gleaned so many great ideas from other principals to share back home. Visiting and networking with colleagues is the best. It’s great to have friends across the entire United States! 
We have been treated like royalty since we have been in Washington. After each event, we have received a gift. These gifts include an NDP canvas bag, mug, pin, letter opener, and book mark. I can hardly wait to see what happens today!
What would staff feel like if we could shower them with little gifts and mementos to make them feel special? With something to think about, this is Jackie McNamara, make it a great day or not, the choice is yours! 
  —Jackie McNamara, 2009 NDP

A Principal’s Journey to the Nation’s Capital

Submitted by NAESP Principal... on Thu, 2009-10-22 08:15

Yesterday, my husband and I flew in from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Washington, D.C., for the NDP program. Our flight left at 5:00 a.m. Did you even know that flights left at that time of the morning?  We arrived at the Capital Hilton and knew that this was going to be an event to be remembered. 
The big sign hanging in the lobby was there to greet all NDPs. It made me feel very welcome. I am wondering what we all can do in our schools to make children feel welcome every day of the school year.  Wouldn’t it be cool if all of our children’s families also felt as welcome as my husband and I did yesterday when we walked into the hotel? We have thought about many ways to make families welcome at Cleveland Elementary, where I am principal, but I think everyone should have the opportunity to feel as welcome as we have since we have been here in Washington, D.C. With something to think about, this is Jackie McNamara, make it a great day, or not, the choice is yours!
—Jackie McNamara, 2009 NDP

Nation’s Top Principals Gather in Washington, D.C., for Distinguished Program

Submitted by NAESP Principal... on Thu, 2009-10-22 06:00

Who are the 2009 National Distinguished Principals (NDPs)? They are a diverse group of 63 educators  who over the past year have made superior contributions and tangible improvements to the learning communities they lead. NAESP, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Education, is taking time this fall to honor the achievements of these outstanding principals from across the country and abroad through the NDP program. The program has been funded by VALIC for the past 20 years.
From Oct. 22-23, the NDPs will be in Washington, D.C., to receive recognition for their work and achievements. The program includes a welcoming reception at the U.S. State Department, a tour of the White House, and an awards banquet featuring an address by Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.
To capture this year’s events from the perspectives of the attendees and to celebrate the idea of professional development through collaboration, the Principals’ Office will feature guest blogging from 2009 NDP Jackie McNamara, principal of Cleveland Elementary School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Check back throughout the week to read the latest take on this year’s NDP program.

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