The Georgia Association of Secondary School Principals (GASSP) announced Monday that Stephanie Johnson, principal of Maynard H. Jackson High School in Atlanta Public Schools, has been named “Principal of the Year.” Johnson was surprised with the news on Monday from GASSP and APS leaders.
“School administrators in Georgia, as well as the entire nation are extremely proud of Stephanie’s accomplishments at Maynard H. Jackson High School,” said Melton Callahan, executive director of GASSP. “On behalf of Executive Director JoAnn Bartoletti from the National Association of Secondary School Principals and GASSP, we are pleased to recognize outstanding school principals like Stephanie who personify excellence in providing quality leadership to their school communities.”

The honor recognizes principals who excel in educational leadership; while resolving complex problems, developing self and others and providing community service.
“A respected neighborhood high school like Maynard H. Jackson High School demands the leadership of an exciting, dynamic educator at the helm,” said Superintendent Meria J. Carstarphen, Ed.D. “With Principal Stephanie Johnson, this school has such a leader many times over. And, I am thrilled that Principal Johnson is getting the recognition that she deserves, so we salute her for this deserving honor from the state.”
Johnson has been a high school principal for 10 years, including four at Maynard H. Jackson. She will represent Georgia for the National School Principal of the Year award during a ceremony this September in Washington, DC.
“It is a great honor to be recognized by GASSP as Principal of the Year,” said Johnson. “The strength of education comes from strong leadership. I appreciate the opportunity to have such a great career where I can grow as a leader and help give students an opportunity to transform their lives and become successful adults.”
In addition to the state Principal of the Year honor, Jackson has recently received the following awards: Georgia State Principal Center’s 2015 Joe Richardson Principal of the Year; 2014-15 Principal of the Year for Atlanta Families’ Excellence in Education Awards; and 2015 Office of the Secretary of Defense Leadership Award for Employer Supporter of the Guard and Reserve.
Johnson was surprised with the announcement by her family, Superintendent Carstarphen and a host of colleagues and friends.
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