National Distinguished Principal® (NDP)
The National Distinguished Principal® program honors outstanding elementary and middle-level principals who set high standards for instruction, student achievement, character, and climate for the students, families, and staff in their learning communities.
National Outstanding Assistant Principal (NOAP)
The National Outstanding Assistant Principal program recognizes assistant principals who promote educational excellence for pre-k-8 schooling.
National Gold Star School (NGSS)
The National Gold Star School® (NGSS) program recognizes outstanding elementary and middle-level schools where learning communities work collaboratively to grow and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement of performance.
Launching in October 2025!
National Principals Month
National Principals Month, celebrated every October, seeks to honor principals for their significant impact on the success and well-being of our nation’s students and their endless commitment to education.
Assistant Principals Week
Celebrated every April, National Assistant Principals Week recognizes the significant role APs play in the overall academic achievement of students and the overall success of schools across the country.
Middle-Level Education Month
Middle-Level Education Month is dedicated to honoring the commitment, innovation, and leadership of middle school educators from coast to coast..
Distinguished Service Awards
This honor, bestowed at the discretion of the NAESP Board of Directors, recognizes outstanding individuals for their distinguished service to children and to education.