West Wake News

Nine principals from North Carolina have been selected as finalists for the Regional Principal of the Year award. The winner will be announced on May 16 at a ceremony at The Umstead Hotel & Spa in Cary and will receive the title of 2025 Wells Fargo Principal of the Year.

State Superintendent Maurice "Mo" Green praised the finalists, saying, “Principals are critical in building a culture of learning and growth for their students and staff.” He added that each finalist has shown an ability to uplift their community and challenge them to reach their full potential.

The Wells Fargo Principal of the Year serves as an ambassador for around 2,500 principals in North Carolina. The individual also advises the State Board of Education for two years and sits on the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Public School Forum.

Juan Austin from Wells Fargo expressed pride in supporting this program, stating, “Wells Fargo is proud to continue our support for the North Carolina Principal of the Year program and to celebrate these nine outstanding administrators who have been named finalists.”

The award was introduced in 1984 to recognize principals' roles in fostering academic excellence in schools across North Carolina.

Dr. John Lassiter from Hertford Grammar School represents the Northeast region. He focuses on leadership consistency and improving school culture. Christy Propst from Morehead City Elementary School represents the Southeast region with her emphasis on servant leadership and community partnerships.

Jason Johnson from Orange High School leads his team toward instructional excellence, representing North Central. Dr. Laura Bailey from Scotland High School fosters continuous learning, representing Sandhills.

Ronnie Hewitt from Liberty Drive Elementary represents Piedmont-Triad with his data-driven approach to success. Kelly Withrow from Battleground Elementary emphasizes academic excellence and community engagement, representing Southwest.

Dr. Jessica Anthony from Davenport A+ Elementary promotes collaborative leadership and arts integration, representing Northwest. Karley Wells from Clyde Elementary stresses academic excellence and durable skills integration, representing West.

Lastly, Dr. Jake Wilson from Mountain Island Charter School emphasizes student-centered learning and strong relationships, representing Charter schools.