Alexandria, VA — Sixty-five outstanding elementary and middle school principals from schools across the nation and abroad have been named as 2006 National Distinguished Principals by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the U.S. Department of Education. They will be honored Oct. 27 at an awards banquet at the Capital Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Vincent Ferrandino, executive director of NAESP, commended the 65 principals for being role models for school leadership throughout the nation and the world. "Principals today face endless challenges," said Ferrandino. "As standards for student learning and teacher competency are raised, our school leaders keep expectations and morale high, often under the most difficult circumstances. The principals we honor today take the challenges in stride and with grace. Students and staffs flourish because of their commitment and their success should be applauded."

"Effective principals mean better schools, motivated teachers, informed parents, and thriving students," said U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings. "It's important that we commend and reward these outstanding leaders, recognizing that their dedication and commitment is making a real difference in the lives of our children."

NAESP and the U.S. Department of Education started the program in 1984 to recognize public and private school principals who make superior contributions to their schools and communities. The distinguished principals are selected by NAESP state affiliates, including the District of Columbia, and by committees representing private and overseas schools. NAESP represents 30,000 elementary and middle school principals in the U.S. and overseas. Each affiliate uses its own selection process. The guidelines include: nomination by peers; demonstrated commitment to excellence; evidence of support by students, colleagues, parents and the community; high standards and expectations for students and staff; and service as a principal for at least five years.

The National Distinguished Principals Program is made possible through the support of VALIC, a member of American International Group, Inc.

Note to editors: For biographical information about the principals and information about the program, or to request an interview while the principals are in Washington, D.C., call Raven Padgett or Jennifer Apperson at NAESP, 703-684-3345 or 800-386-2377. On Oct. 26-27, call the NAESP Press Room at the Capital Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. at 202-393-1000.

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