Principals gathered in front of the world's largest "Radio Flyer" wagon in Spokane's Riverfront Park, during the 2019 NAESP Pre-K–8 Principals Conference.

Fresh From the Field: Member Memories

“I have enjoyed the electronic publications that are shared. I am able to glean new ideas for my school environment as well as share with my colleagues. I have been an administrator for a while now, and I am always looking for fresh ideas to keep me ‘on my toes.’ ”—Stephanie Morrow, @smorrow_morrow, Georgia

“Being a National Distinguished Principal and participating in the events for the celebration and culmination of this recognition will by far be one of my most professional and personal highlights. It was extraordinary to connect with colleagues across our nation, collaborate on common challenges, and synergize to create solutions in the name of public education. I am looking forward to being a voice in Washington, D.C., as part of the National Leaders Conference and grow the advocacy component in my professional obligation as a public school leader. NAESP has equipped me with the tools, knowledge, and resources to be a voice for all students.”—Rhonda Rhodes, @RhondaRRhodes, South Carolina

“The support provided through the current pandemic. NAESP has helped to connect me with others, provide support when I was needing it most, provided scholarly information about best practices, and opportunities to continue to grow as an administrator.”—Amy Denney, @AmyADenney, Iowa

“My experiences at conferences and with the network have been life-saving. However, my best memory involves becoming a nationally certified mentor, working with other mentors, and supporting the next generation of mentors. It’s been my avenue to give back to the profession.”—Shanna Spickard, @SSpickard, Michigan

“I had the fortune of meeting and hearing Todd Whitaker speak at the 2015 NAESP conference in Baltimore. His advice was for principals to make decisions based on their best teachers. After listening to his words of wisdom, I became even more committed to being a ‘teachers’ principal.’ ”—Christopher Wooleyhand, @principal64, Maryland

“Speaking at the summer [NAESP Pre-K-8 Principals] Conference in summer 2019 in Spokane, Washington.”—Matthew Moyer, @MoyerMatthewD, Pennsylvania