Alexandria, VA—April 7, 2025—The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) recognizes 26 assistant principals (APs) as members of the 2025 class of National Outstanding Assistant Principals. NAESP is committed to supporting elementary and middle-level APs, and part of that commitment is recognizing them for their contributions to their school communities.

“Assistant principals drive positive change and build the foundation for educational excellence in schools,” says NAESP Executive Director L. Earl Franks, Ed.D., CAE. “These dedicated professionals create a supportive atmosphere that nurtures both academic success and emotional growth. We’re thrilled to honor the commitment and game-changing influence of these passionate educators. NAESP is excited to celebrate the 2025 class of National Outstanding Assistant Principals—especially during National Assistant Principals Week.”

Meet the 2025 Class

This year, NAESP recognizes 20 elementary school APs, five middle-level APs, and one K–8 AP from across the country. Recipients have shared best practices that have helped them improve processes at their schools and thrive in their role.

• Stephen Phillips, Holly Hill Elementary School, Alabama
• Aubrie Ellis, Mountain View Elementary School, Alaska
• Elisa Zagala, Barcelona Elementary School, Arizona
• Crystal Carranco, Stagecoach Elementary School, Arkansas
• Tory Moix, Greenbrier Middle School, Arkansas
• Hazael Román-Lagunas, Munroe Elementary School, Colorado
• Laura Dixon, John Barry Elementary School, Connecticut
• Dawn Lybarger, Phillis Wheatley Elementary School, Delaware
• Tameka Hamilton, Three Points Elementary School, Florida
• Ja’Net Smith, R.B. Wright Elementary School, Georgia
• Lakeisha Ector, Callaway Middle School, Georgia
• Hidi Boteilho, Keonepoko Elementary School, Hawaii
• Jessica Koch, Nemaha Central Elementary & Middle School, Kansas
• Sonia Matthew, Mary B. Neal Elementary School, Maryland
• Stacey Douglas, Meridian Elementary School, Michigan
• Mitchell Hegland, Eagle Heights Spanish Immersion School, Minnesota
• Kimberly Baysinger, Neshoba Central Elementary School, Mississippi
• Tiffany Eaton, Danville Elementary School, New Hampshire
• Lindsay Rice, A.C. Reynolds Middle School, North Carolina
• Pamela Cook, Choctaw Elementary School, Oklahoma
• Jeremy Womer, Haine Middle School, Pennsylvania
• Tessie Bridges, Grassy Pond Elementary School, South Carolina
• Lainey Hanna, Helena Park Elementary School, Texas
• Courtney Peckham, Liberty Elementary School, Virginia
• James West, Cascade Elementary School, Washington
• Johnny Horton, Lander Middle School, Wyoming

Nominated by peers in their states, recipients of this award are practicing APs with at least two years’ experience in the role who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and have set high standards for students, colleagues, parents, and the community. All National Outstanding Assistant Principals are members of NAESP at the time of their nomination.

NAESP partner Landscape Structures is the proud sponsor of the 2025 National Outstanding Assistant Principal Program.

This recognition comes as part of the National Assistant Principals Week, from April 7-11, 2025. Celebrate with us and follow along at #APWeek.

For more information about the National Outstanding Assistant Principal Program or to connect with any of the NOAPs, email Nikki Sparks, NAESP Assistant Executive Director, Executive Services and Recognition Programs, at nsparks@naesp.org, or visit the NOAP page.