2026-27 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal (NOAP) Application

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Description

~ Program Background ~

The National Association of Elementary School Principals is committed to preparing assistant principals to step into their role as an educational leader. Recognition for the exceptional leadership of those who are responsible for the day-to-day operations of pre-K–8 schools instills pride in their accomplishments and reinforces their leadership in helping children develop a lifelong love of learning.

~ Process ~

Public school elementary and middle-level assistant principals apply for the award via their state association. All honorees will be notified and announced during National Assistant Principals Week, April 5-9, 2027. Honorees will be awarded complimentary registration to the NAESP National School Leaders Conference in July 2027 and will be recognized during the event. 

The 2026-27 program will begin September 2026 and all state-selected honorees must be submitted to NAESP by February 7, 2027. We invite all state affiliates to submit up to two honorees - one elementary and one middle-level - for recognition on the national level. All selected awardees must submit a professional, digital photograph (a “headshot” with a plain, color background) at 300 dpi or higher (please no AI generated or highly filtered/touched-up photos). A roster of 2026-27 award winners will be featured on the NAESP website.

~ Sample Application ~

Please note that this downloadable PDF is for informational purposes only. All applications MUST be submitted online via Reviewr. 2026-27 NAESP NOAP Application SAMPLE

Rules

~ Criteria ~

Applicant must:

  • Be a member of the National Association of Elementary School Principals at the time of application deadline, on February 7, 2027, and must maintain membership through July 31, 2027.
  • Be an active assistant principal at the time of application deadline.
  • Be an active assistant principal for at least two years.
  • Contribute to the well-being of the educational community.
  • Contribute to a positive and motivating environment for others.
  • Have a strong record of service (in both school and community) and be recognized as a leader.
  • Exhibit exceptional leadership in a particular school program and/or is heavily involved in finding a solution to a problem faced by the school.