Principals Honored at White House Ceremony
President Obama recently honored principals as part of the 2013 National Teacher of the Year event in the White House Rose Garden.
Susan Chin, principal of Veazie Street Elementary School in Providence, Rhode Island, attended the event with Mark Terry, principal of Eubanks Intermediate School in Southlake, Texas and president of NAESP. Chin and Terry (pictured at left) were invited to represent the nation’s elementary and middle-level principals. Chin is currently recognized as a 2012 National Distinguished Principal (NDP), a distinction for outstanding elementary and middle-level administrators.
The National Teacher of the Year is chosen from among the State Teachers of the Year by a national selection committee representing the major national education organizations organized by the Council of Chief State School Officers. This year, principals were invited to participate in the event as part of the Obama administration’s commitment to recognize the nation’s educators and their commitment to students. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan attended the event. 
“It is an honor and privilege to represent the National Distinguished Principals class of 2012 and really every accomplished elementary and middle-level principal in their unwavering dedication to help every child succeed in school,” said Chin.
The National Distinguished Principals program honors outstanding elementary and middle-level administrators who ensure that America’s children acquire a sound foundation for lifelong learning and achievement. The program was established in 1984 to recognize and celebrate elementary and middle-level principals who set high standards for instruction, student achievement, character, and climate for the students, families, and staffs in their learning communities.
“The President’s recognition that principals are critical to our nation’s success in education is heartwarming. Principals work hard day in and day out to provide every child with a quality education and ensure the success of schools,” said Terry.