Alexandria, Virginia—August 1, 2025—NAESP President April Knight announced today that  L. Earl Franks, Ed.D., CAE, NAESP executive director since 2017, has announced his intended retirement effective July 31, 2026. As part of a planned transition, the NAESP Board of Directors made public the timeline and process to hire a new executive director, which will begin this fall. The process involves the establishment of a Candidate Advisory Committee (chaired by Knight as the board president and including NAESP’s 2025-2026 board officers), and the hiring of an executive search firm.

“In his nearly decade-long tenure, Franks brought bold, strategic vision to NAESP, advancing its evolution into a more member-centered organization,” said Knight. “Under his guidance, NAESP expanded its service areas to meet the changing needs of school leaders—particularly in professional learning, multimedia communications, and student leadership through the American Student Council Association. His deep expertise in government and stakeholder relations proved critical during the COVID-19 pandemic and throughout a shifting political climate, ensuring that school leaders’ voices were heard and represented at the national level.”  

“Leading NAESP has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my professional life,” said Franks. “It has been a true honor and privilege to serve at the helm of this iconic and essential education organization, allowing me to build upon its rich tradition and expand the reach of my lifelong passion for education and supporting school leaders. Throughout my tenure, with the support of past NAESP boards and the excellent work of the NAESP staff, we have achieved financial and organizational stability, expanded and enhanced services and resources, with an unwavering goal of doing what is best for our members and contributing positively to the NAESP community.” 

“This past year serving as the 2024-2025 NAESP President, Dr. Franks and I traveled to dozens of state conferences,” said immediate past president Kevin Armstrong. “I had the unique perspective to see him in action, ensuring that NAESP remains a steady and influential force for school leaders nationwide. His legacy is one of collaborative strength and strategic foresight.” 

Executive Search 

The search to hire a new executive director by July 1, 2026, will begin this fall. The NAESP Executive Director Search Timeline and Process is posted on NAESP’s website. Address all inquiries related to the search to NAESP President April Knight, who will also chair the Candidate Advisory Committee. She can be reached at aknight@naesp.org.