The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) announced that Elizabeth “Liz” Nelson, Associate Principal of Pilgrim Park Middle School in Elm Grove, WI, is the 2025 NASSP National Assistant Principal of the Year for Middle Level Schools, in the award’s inaugural year! This marks a momentous milestone for the Elmbrook Schools and Wisconsin educational leadership.

“Liz exemplifies outstanding leadership and dedication in her role as Associate Principal at Pilgrim Park Middle School,” stated Principal Kelly Szesterniak. “Her commitment to building a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment has made a significant impact on both students and staff. This award is a testament to her commitment, hard work, integrity, and dedication to excellence.”

“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 exemplifies what it means to lead with innovation and heart, transforming her school into a student-centered community of learning. At NASSP, we are proud to celebrate her achievements and remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting school leaders nationwide.”

During Liz Nelson’s five-year tenure at Pilgrim Park Middle School, she has helped lead a school culture grounded in inclusivity, accountability, and growth. Under her leadership, the school offers 35 student-driven clubs and activities, fostering a strong sense of connection and belonging. Her implementation of a student support system focused on early intervention has helped decrease behavior referrals by 40% and contributed to a 12% increase in student-reported belonging. The school has consistently earned a “Significantly Exceeds Expectations” rating on the Wisconsin state report card.

“On behalf of Pilgrim Park Middle School and our entire school district, I would like to express our appreciation to NASSP for recognizing Liz Nelson with this honor,” said Dr. Mark Hansen, Superintendent of the School District of Elmbrook. “We have exceptionally talented leaders in our schools, and we are thrilled to be able to acknowledge their contributions.”

Nelson received state recognition in November as the Wisconsin Associate Principal of the Year from the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators (AWSA), which sponsored her national nomination. “Liz is an exceptional leader who reflects the strength and promise of the next generation of school leadership,” said Jim Lynch, Executive Director of AWSA. “She models excellence, collaboration, and care in every aspect of her work. We proudly join the NASSP in celebrating her success.”

The announcement came during NASSP’s National Education Leadership Awards gala in Washington, D.C., which brought together State Assistant Principals of the Year, student scholarship winners, and national education leaders.

For the NASSP Assistant Principal of the Year program, each state selects one outstanding middle level or high school assistant principal to represent them. These individuals are chosen based on exemplary contributions to student learning, instructional leadership, and school culture. From this group, one middle level and one high school assistant principal are named national honorees.

Liz is the second Elmbrook administrator to receive national recognition from NASSP in recent years. For more information, visit nassp.org/poy. Congratulations, Mrs. Nelson!