Two Leaders, One Goal: NASSP's Assistant Principals of the Year Perry & Nelson
Photos Courtesy of Facebook.com/NASSP
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) has named Elizabeth “Liz” Nelson of Pilgrim Park Middle School in Elm Grove, WI, and Rahsaan "Saani" Perry of West Florence High School in Florence, SC, as the 2025 National Assistant Principals of the Year. Nelson received the middle level honor, while Perry was recognized at the high school level.
The announcement, made during the National Education Leadership Awards gala on April 11, highlighted the crucial role assistant principals play in school success, often working behind the scenes to support students and staff. The recognition coincided with National Assistant Principals Week.
"Assistant principals are the unsung heroes of education, working tirelessly behind the scenes to create safe, supportive environments where students can thrive,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “Liz Nelson and Saani Perry exemplify what it means to lead with innovation and heart, transforming their schools into student-centered communities of learning."
NASSP emphasized the unique position of assistant principals in fostering equitable learning environments, improving student outcomes through direct engagement, and helping address educator shortages by sharing leadership and cultivating positive school climates.
Middle Level Honoree: Liz Nelson (Pilgrim Park Middle School, Elm Grove, WI)
Serving as associate principal since 2020, Liz Nelson has focused on enhancing student leadership, belonging, and academic achievement at Pilgrim Park. Her initiatives include fostering 35 student-driven clubs, establishing a behavior management leadership team that contributed to a 40% reduction in behavior referrals, and developing a student support structure featuring early intervention and the Check and Connect engagement program. Under her leadership, the school saw a 12% increase in student-reported belonging and earned a "Significantly Exceeds Expectations" state report card rating for two consecutive years.
"I’m so honored to receive this recognition and share it with the incredible students, staff and families at Pilgrim Park Middle School,” Nelson stated. “This award reflects the power of collaboration and the belief that every student deserves to feel seen, supported and inspired to achieve at their highest potential."
High School Honoree: Saani Perry (West Florence High School, Florence, SC)
Saani Perry has driven significant academic growth and community engagement at West Florence High. He spearheaded the expansion of the STEM magnet program, resulting in over 60 new students, eight new courses, and four additional faculty members. Perry also initiated key programs like the "Shining Knights" to recognize student excellence across various domains, "Wellness Weekends" for mental and physical health breaks, and the "Sharper Knights" male mentoring program.
"This honor is not just mine—it belongs to the incredible West Florence High School community members who make our school such a special home,” Perry said. “It’s a privilege to serve in a role where I can push the boundaries of what’s possible for our students and educators.”
About the Award Program
The NASSP National Assistant Principal of the Year program annually celebrates outstanding middle level and high school assistant principals who excel in creating high-quality learning opportunities. State affiliates select winners, whose applications are then reviewed by a national panel comprising past winners, education leaders, and NASSP staff.
The Washington D.C. gala also honored National Honor Society Scholarship finalists and National Association of Student Councils Scholarship winners, bringing together distinguished student and administrative leaders.
For more information about the NASSP Assistant Principal of the Year program, visit nassp.org/apoy.