A r c h i v e d I n f o r m a t i o n

     FOR RELEASE              September 9, 1996                  Contacts:                   Media: Melinda Kitchell Malico                          (202) 401-1576                   General Inquiries:                          June Million, Natl.                          Assn. of Elementary                          And Secondary School                          Principals                          (703) 684-3345

Outstanding School Principals Honored

Fifty nine outstanding elementary and middle school principals from across the nation, as well as U.S. schools abroad, were named today as 1996 National Distinguished Principals by the U.S. Department of Education and the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP).

They will be honored Sept. 20 at an awards banquet in Washington, D.C.

"Principals have an enormous responsibility and profound opportunity to influence the caliber of the work that goes on in classrooms, helping children learn to high standards," said U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley. "It is no doubt one of the most difficult jobs in America, and it is a pleasure to recognize the contribution of these extraordinary leaders."

"School principals are often the unsung heroes of American education," said Samuel G. Sava, NAESP's executive director. "Working with parents and teachers, principals play a critical role in shaping the character and quality of a child's education. NAESP is extremely proud to give this special recognition to these outstanding men and women."

The department and NAESP began the program in 1984 to recognize public and private school principals who make outstanding contributions to their schools and communities.

The distinguished principals were selected by NAESP affiliates in all 50 states and the District of Columbia and by committees representing private and overseas schools. NAESP represents 27,000 principals nationwide.

Each affiliate used its own selection process, following guidelines established by NAESP and the department for determining outstanding leadership. 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 Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company (VALIC), based in Houston, is the corporate partner for the annual program. VALIC hosts the awards banquet and provides lodging for the honored principals and their guests. VALIC also provides the principals with a certificate and an engraved, bronze school bell.

-###-