The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) has announced the three finalists for the 2025 National High School Assistant Principal of the Year award, with La Faye Howard, Assistant Principal at Winston Churchill High School, being recognized as one of the distinguished finalists.
Earlier this school year, Howard was honored as the 2025 Assistant Principal of the Year by the Maryland Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) in collaboration with NASSP. One outstanding high school leader will ultimately be selected as the 2025 National High School Assistant Principal of the Year.
Dr. La Faye Howard serves as the Assistant Principal at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She brings a wealth of experience to her role, having previously worked as an English teacher, department chair, and staff development teacher. Howard is committed to core values that emphasize excellence in learning through effective instructional practices, equitable access and support, and the cultivation of positive relationships. She has led initiatives focused on race and equity, promoting awareness and inclusivity through the implementation of No Place for Hate campaigns, Learning for Justice resources, and comprehensive staff and student training within the Winston Churchill High School culture playbook. As an instructional leader, she fosters discussions on effective teaching strategies, coaching, and feedback to encourage reflection and continuous improvement.
2025 High School Finalists:
– Daniel Beck, Assistant Principal, Upper St. Clair High School, Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania
– Rahsaan Perry, Assistant Principal, West Florence High School, Florence, South Carolina
– La Faye Howard, Assistant Principal, Winston Churchill High School, Potomac, Maryland
“While often working behind the scenes, assistant principals build the foundation for student success,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “They create safe environments, mentor teachers, connect with families, and resolve issues before they escalate into crises. It’s an honor to celebrate these finalists who are the driving force behind their thriving school communities and student success.”
The 2025 National NASSP Assistant Principal of the Year will be announced on April 11 at a gala event that will also honor National Honor Society Scholarship finalists, National Association of School Councils Scholarship winners, and State Assistant Principals of the Year.