We recognize and honor those who are making a difference in education. Our leaders and schools who support, guide, instruct, and encourage achievement in all children, matter greatly in the quality of education for our future.

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.

Recognizing the collaborative effort that it takes to support education, we also honor individuals outside of the principalship for their distinguished service to children or education. The NAESP Hall of Fame celebrates the work of these committed and inspiring individuals.

The prestigious Blue Ribbon Schools Program (BRS) honors public and private K-12 schools that are either academically superior in their states or that demonstrate dramatic gains in student achievement.

With the National Outstanding Assistant Principal Award Program, we wish to honor assistant principals who are doing a superb job in their roles. This program promotes educational excellence for pre-kindergarten through eighth grade (PreK-8) schooling and calls attention to the fundamental importance of the assistant principal. NAESP will share their successes and best practices in a practical document for other principals to utilize.