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Sand Springs, OKLA. (May 20, 2025) – The Oklahoma Association of School Administrators (OASA) announced Sherry Durkee of Sand Springs Public Schools as the 2025 OASA State Superintendent of the Year. Ms. Durkee was also named the OASA District #5 Superintendent of the Year. She will be recognized at the CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference, as well as at the AASA National Conference on Education in 2026. 

The recipient of this award is selected by a committee of leading school administrators. In order to be selected as the OASA State Superintendent of the Year, the following criteria must be met:  

·       Must be a member in good standing of OASA and AASA 

·       Demonstrate successful experience in top level educational administration  

·       Must have a sound, dynamic and realistic philosophy of education  

·       Must be a person who can inspire and motivate people and give support and recognition for the contributions of others 

·       Must have a record which evidences continued professional and personal growth through appropriate training and experiences including skills in human relations and the stamina to cope with the pressures of the job 

·       Must have the ability to speak for education on all levels with special emphasis on the district level 

·       Must have made contributions to educational administration 

“Leadership is about building community, cultivating and empowering other leaders and focusing on student success,” said Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA/OASA Executive Director. “School leaders are leading through many challenges. They work tirelessly to provide opportunities for students to learn, grow and realize their full potential. Dr. Simpson represents the best of Oklahoma school administrators as the State Superintendent of the Year. We are excited and proud to recognize Dr. Simpson and the many other outstanding leaders at our upcoming CCOSA Conference.” 

Ms. Durkee is wrapping up her 9th year as the superintendent of Sand Springs and has been with Sand Springs Public Schools since 1997, holding several roles within the district. Starting as a coordinator and psychologist with Sand Springs, Sherry moved into her first administrative role as their Director of Special Education and Federal Programs in 2010 and then became the Assistant Superintendent in 2013. Ms. Durkee received her master’s degree in Applied Behavioral Studies from Oklahoma State University and has since completed and received her post-graduation certification in School Psychology from Northeastern State University. Sherry is heavily involved within the Oklahoma Superintendent community and currently serves as theAASA Governing Board Office #2 chair on the Oklahoma Association of School Administrators (OASA) board. Sherry is a passionate and unwavering advocate for public education—amplifying the voices of students and educators through civic engagement, legislative outreach, and transparent communication with the Sand Springs community. 

“I’m beyond humbled to be named Superintendent of the Year for the State of Oklahoma. When I chose to become an educator, I never envisioned anything beyond the classroom and influencing the lives of my students.  Opportunities along the way presented themselves where I could influence more lives.  Serving as Superintendent of Guthrie Public Schools has been the most challenging and rewarding part of my professional career.  Providing a pathway for children to exceed beyond what they thought possible is the ultimate opportunity I’m afforded every day.  Sharing that task with colleagues from across the state provides us community to do great things as we form the values of the next generation.” 

Visit the CCOSA website to see past Administrator of the Year awardees. For more information about OASA and CCOSA, please visit www.ccosa.org.  

Sand Springs, OKLA. (May 20, 2025) – The Oklahoma Association of School Administrators (OASA) is pleased to announce Shawn Beard of Sand Springs Public Schools as one of the 2025 OASA State Asst. Supt./Central Office Administrators of the Year. Mr. Beard was also named the OASA District #5 Central Office Administrator of the Year.  

The recipient of this award is selected by a committee of leading school administrators. In order to be selected as the OASA State Superintendent of the Year, the following criteria must be met:  

• Must be a member in good standing of OASA  

• Demonstrate successful experience in top level educational administration  

• Must have a sound, dynamic and realistic philosophy of education  

• Must be a person who can inspire and motivate people and give support and recognition for the contributions of others 

• Must have a record which evidences continued professional and personal growth through appropriate training and experiences including skills in human relations and the stamina to cope with the pressures of the job 

• Must have the ability to speak for education on all levels with special emphasis on the district level 

• Must have made contributions to educational administration 

“Assistant Superintendents and Central Office Administrators play vital roles in promoting best practices that lead to the highest standards of student achievement, including best practices in instructional excellence, financial and budget integrity, efficient facility and transportation operations and fostering community support,” said Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA/OASA Executive Director. “These leaders support the leadership team, the superintendent, and the district as a whole. We are excited and proud to recognize Shawn as an outstanding school leader who represents next level leadership.” 

 

Mr. Beard’s career in education has spanned 29 years, beginning as a teacher at Charles Page High School, Sand Springs PS in 1996. Shawn then became an instructor with Tulsa Community College and Tulsa Tech and returned to Sand Springs Public Schools in 2011 as their Director of Career Tech and Virtual Learning. Currently, Mr. Beard is the Assistant Superintendent over Teaching and Learning with Sand Springs and serves his district with the personal philosophy that every student possesses the potential for academic success and achievement. Shawn received his master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Digital Learning from Abilene Christian University and is committed to giving back to his fellow education community by sharing his expertise in digital learning and AI in education at professional trainings and conferences across the state. 

Upon receiving this recognition, Mr. Beard stated, “QUOTE”  

Visit the CCOSA website to see past Administrator of the Year awardees. For more information about OASA and CCOSA, please visit www.ccosa.org.  

OKLAHOMA CITY (April 17, 2025) – The Oklahoma Association of Elementary School Principals (OAESP) is pleased to announce Dr. Kas Nelson, Principal at Vici Elementary School, Vici Public Schools, as the OAESP Oklahoma Principal of the Year and the NAESP National Distinguished Principal. OAESP also named Amanda Vance, Principal at Heritage Elementary School, Tahlequah Public Schools, as the OAESP Principal of Excellence. Jennifer Hankins, Principal of Blackwell Elementary School, Blackwell Public Schools, is the James Burnett Principal of Distinction. The award winners will be recognized during the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) Summer Leadership Conference this June.  
 

The OAESP Administrator of the Year Awards promote leadership in elementary education by recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their schools through programs that exemplify the highest standards and promote student achievement. Award winners serve as inspirational leaders to OAESP— they embody the core values of serving students and being committed to their school communities. 

 

“Research reflects that strong principals have mastered these domains of skills --instruction, people and the organization,” said Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA Executive Director. “On behalf of CCOSA, I want to congratulate these principal leaders who demonstrate these skills that effective principals rely on to impact student achievement. We are grateful for their dedication and commitment to the profession, their students, staff, and community.”

 

Vici Public Schools Superintendent Coby Nelson stated, “Dr. Nelson has stepped up to mentor and teach alongside new staff, ensuring that our students receive the highest quality education. Additionally, her diverse roles as a certified bus driver, live-stream technician, bookkeeper for our basketball teams, assistant softball coach, and cheerleading coach showcase her dedication to our school community.”

 

Dr. Kas Nelson is described as someone who is loving, compassionate, kind and respectful.  Kas is a leader in her school and her community. Community leaders recognize that she gives more than 100% to the school and community as a whole.  

 

Under Dr. Nelson’s leadership, the school campus has become more secure. There are 13 entrances into the school that were open and accessible all day. Dr. Nelson worked with the parents and the community to make the school more secure. When Dr. Nelson sees a need to fill, she steps up to the plate. Recently, she could not find a 4^th grade teacher. Dr. Nelson filled that need by teaching 4^th grade full-time while also serving as principal, bus driver, cheerleading coach and her many other responsibilities. She ensured that those 4^th grade students were receiving the education they deserve.       

 

“Dr. Nelson is a leader not only at her school and in her district, but she is also a strong advocate for public education at the state and national level,” states OAESP Executive Director Glen Abshere. “She gives more than 100% to her school and community. Dr. Nelson is highly respected by her colleagues and peers across the state of Oklahoma but also nationally. We are honored to have Dr. Kas Nelson represent OAESP as the Oklahoma Principal of the Year and the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) National Distinguished Principal from Oklahoma.”

 

For more information about the OAESP Administrator of the Year Awards, please visit www.ccosa.org.

 

About OAESP

The Oklahoma Association of Elementary School Principals (OAESP) is a professional association organized for the purpose of improving elementary and middle-level education (PreK-8th grade) by providing information and leadership, encouraging research/service, and promoting high professional standards for Oklahoma administrators. OAESP is an affiliate of the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and a constituent association of the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA).

 

 

 

 

 

Julie Geiger Named ODSS Director of the Year
 

Mrs. Julie Geiger brings over four decades of dedicated service to public education, beginning her 42-year career as a speech-language pathologist. In 1993, she became the director of Project CEEP - a cooperative program serving students with severe and profound disabilities in Rogers County - and in 2005, she took the role of Director of Special Services for Claremore Public Schools. A trusted mentor and advocate, Julie has guided the professional growth of countless special educators and has supported leaders across districts through active participation in principal and central office PLC groups.  Her work has laid the foundation for Claremore's Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), thanks to her earlier implementation of Response to Intervention practices at the elementary level. Beyond special education, Julie has also championed district-wide literacy initiatives and behavioral health efforts, always keeping student well-being at the heart of her leadership. 

Oklahoma City (February 28, 2025) Mr. Jason Hayes, Principal at Santa Fe High School, Edmond Public Schools, has been named the 2025 Oklahoma High School Principal of the Year by the Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals (OASSP).

 

As the principal of Santa Fe High School for the past 13 years, Mr. Hayes has played a pivotal role in fostering a positive school culture that prioritizes the emotional and physical well-being of both students and staff through the implementation of the Safe and Civil Schools initiative. This initiative led to the creation of the school's foundational core values, known as "Protect the PACK," which serve as a guiding framework for the entire school community. The acronym PACK—P for "Practice Respect," A for "Accept Responsibility," C for "Commit to Excellence," and K for "Keep It Classy"—reinforces a school-wide emphasis on making wise choices and practicing self-discipline.

 

"I have known and worked with Jason Hayes for almost 20 years," stated Angela Grunewald, Superintendent of Edmond Public Schools. "He is a model leader who is passionate about meeting the needs of students academically while also preparing them for their future. Over the years, not only has Jason made a lasting impact on Santa Fe High School, but also on the entire Edmond Public Schools District. He leads a team of incredible educators at Santa Fe who get to experience his impact every day. We are excited for him to receive this honor!"

 

Under Mr. Hayes' leadership, Santa Fe High School has achieved an "A" on the State Report Card for the past two years. As a proud Professional Learning Community (PLC) school, collaborative teams work closely to teach essential standards and ensure that all students reach appropriate levels of mastery. To support students who need additional help, the school incorporates daily Advisory Time for academic assistance, and on Wednesdays, assistant principals and honor society students provide after-school tutoring.

 

Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA Executive Director said, "CCOSA is proud to congratulate Jason Hayes on being named the OASSP High School Principal of the Year. His dedication to fostering a culture of high academic achievement, self-discipline, and respect has made an indelible mark on his students, staff, and school community. This well-deserved recognition is a testament to his outstanding leadership and commitment to excellence in education.”

 

“Jason Hayes is a remarkable leader who has dedicated himself to building a school culture rooted in high academic achievement, self-discipline, and respect for all," stated OASSP Executive Director, Chris LeGrande. "His commitment to excellence is evident in the success of his students and the strong, supportive environment he has cultivated at Santa Fe High School. Being named OASSP High School Principal of the Year is a well-earned recognition of his hard work and unwavering dedication to his school community.”

 

Hayes will be recognized as the Oklahoma High School Principal of the Year by the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) and the Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals (OASSP) at the CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference in June 2025. Furthermore, Hayes will join fellow state nominees in Seattle on July 9, where NASSP will announce the NASSP National Middle Level and High School Principals of the Year during its national conference. This marks the first time since 2014 that NASSP has expanded its recognition program to honor both Middle Level and High School Principals of the Year.

 

For more information about the Principal of the Year award or to learn more about CCOSA and OASSP, visit ccosa.org.

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ABOUT OASSP

The Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals (OASSP) supports secondary-level principals by providing quality professional development, encouraging advocacy, and networking for the improvement of middle and high school education in Oklahoma. OASSP is an affiliate of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) and a constituent association of the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA).

OKLAHOMA CITY (February 28, 2025) The Oklahoma Middle-Level Education Association (OMLEA) is pleased to announce Blaine Wise as the 2025 Middle-Level Principal of the Year. Wise will be recognized at June's Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) Summer Leadership Conference.

 

As principal at Glenpool Middle School for the past four years, Wise has worked diligently to create a welcoming environment where students and staff have fun, feel valued, and possess a fear of missing out if not in attendance. Each week begins with Motivation Monday where students submit a goal and the steps necessary to accomplish that goal. In addition, students complete a social/emotional self-check to determine their preparedness for learning. On Follow-Up Friday, students assess if they met their goal, and if their grades improved. They are then allowed to give a shout-out to a deserving student or teacher.

 

"Through his exceptional leadership, Blaine Wise has made the Glenpool Middle School vision, 'Where We Grow Minds and Support Warriors', a daily reality," stated Superintendent Curtis Layton. "He has masterfully cultivated a vibrant school culture, embodying the motto 'Gratitude, Model, Support'. Students and staff thrive and genuinely want to be present which is reflected in his site student and teacher attendance rate.  His dedication to fostering a supportive work environment has resulted in remarkably low teacher turnover, ensuring consistent, high-quality instruction. Under his leadership, Glenpool Middle School has achieved steady academic improvements over the past three years, driven by strategic curriculum development and data-driven decision-making. Furthermore, Principal Wise has introduced innovative programs that enrich the student experience, providing unique development opportunities. His passion, integrity, and belief in every individual's potential have transformed the school, making him a truly deserving recipient of this honor."

 

Under Mr. Wise's leadership, Glenpool Middle School has made it a priority to celebrate both students and staff through monthly school-wide assemblies. Students who demonstrate positive character traits are recognized as "Warriors Have Character" recipients. Additionally, students nominate six teachers each month to receive traveling trophy awards, which symbolize various qualities such as positivity (Smiley Face), dedication to students (Heart for Kids), guidance (Lighthouse), creativity (Scissors), encompassing (World), and support (Buoy). These awards are presented during the celebration assemblies, fostering a culture of appreciation and encouragement throughout the school community.

 

Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA Executive Director said, “CCOSA is proud to congratulate Blaine Wise on being named OMLEA Principal of the Year. As a dedicated member of the OASSP Executive Committee and a regular presenter at CCOSA-sponsored events, Blaine consistently demonstrates his commitment to excellence in school leadership. His passion for student success and his ability to uplift both students and staff make him truly deserving of this honor.”

 

“Blaine Wise is an outstanding leader whose passion and energy inspire everyone around him," noted OMLEA Executive Director, Chris LeGrande. "His unwavering dedication to recognizing the positive accomplishments of students and staff has created a school culture that thrives on encouragement and excellence. Being named OMLEA Principal of the Year is a well-deserved honor, and I can’t wait to see the continued impact of his leadership.”

 

In addition to being recognized at the CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference this June, Wise will join fellow state nominees in Seattle on July 9, where NASSP will announce the NASSP National Middle Level and High School Principals of the Year during its national conference. This marks the first time since 2014 that NASSP has expanded its recognition program to honor both Middle Level and High School Principals of the Year.

 

 

For more information about OASSP, OMLEA, and the Principal of the Year Awards, please visit www.ccosa.org.

 

OAESP NAMES 2025 ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

OKLAHOMA CITY (January 24, 2025) – The Oklahoma Association of Elementary School Principals (OAESP) is pleased to announce Pam Cook, Assistant Principal at Choctaw Elementary School, Choctaw-Nicoma Park Public Schools, as the OAESP Oklahoma Assistant Principal of the Year and the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) National Outstanding Assistant Principal (NOAP). This is the first year OAESP has offered this award. Mrs. Cook will be recognized at the OAESP Leadership Conference next month, at the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) Summer Leadership Conference this June and at the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) National Conference in July in Seattle, Washington.
 

The OAESP Assistant Principal of the Year Award promotes leadership in elementary education by recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their schools through programs that exemplify the highest standards and promote student achievement. Award winners serve as inspirational leaders to OAESP— they embody the core values of serving students and being committed to their school communities. 

“Research reflects that strong principals have mastered these domains of skills --instruction, people and the organization,” said Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA Executive Director. “On behalf of CCOSA, I want to congratulate this principal leader who demonstrates these skills that effective principals rely on to impact student achievement. We are grateful for her dedication and commitment to the profession, students, staff, and community.”

Choctaw Elementary School Principal Cheryl Lidia stated, “As the principal of Choctaw Elementary, it is my distinct honor to celebrate Mrs. Pam Cook as the very first Oklahoma educator to receive the OAESP Assistant Principal of the Year.  Pam’s remarkable journey in education reflects her dedication, versatility, and deep commitment to serving students and families. She has excelled in every role she has undertaken, from a paraprofessional to a special education teacher, a school counselor, and then as an assistant principal. This breadth of experience has given her a unique perspective and an extraordinary ability to connect with and support our students, staff, and community.  

Pam’s leadership is marked by her tireless work ethic and ability to foster collaboration, advocate for students, and implement innovative practices. Her impact is felt in every corner of our school, and this recognition is a testament to the lasting contributions she has made to education. It is a privilege to work alongside such an exceptional leader, and I couldn’t be prouder to see her receive this well-deserved honor.”

As an assistant principal, Mrs. Cook believes her number one priority is making students feel they are coming to school with a purpose. She empowers students to believe they can do anything. She also believes in growing leaders in her building among the staff. Mrs. Cook was instrumental in moving Pre-Kindergarten from a half day program to a full day program. 

“Mrs. Cook is a leader in her school and her community,” states OAESP Executive Director Glen Abshere. “We are honored to have Mrs. Cook represent OAESP as the Oklahoma Assistant Principal of the Year and the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) National Outstanding Assistant Principal.”

For more information about the OAESP Assistant Principal of the Year Award, please visit www.ccosa.org.

 

About OAESP

The Oklahoma Association of Elementary School Principals (OAESP) is a professional association organized for the purpose of improving elementary and middle-level education (PreK-8th grade) by providing information and leadership, encouraging research/service, and promoting high professional standards for Oklahoma administrators. OAESP is an affiliate of the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and a constituent association of the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA).

Tecumseh Administrator Named 2024-2025 OASSP Assistant Principal of the Year Oklahoma City (December 13, 2024) – Mrs. Jaime Griggs, Assistant Principal at Tecumseh High School, Tecumseh Public Schools, has been named the 2024-2025 High School Assistant Principal of the Year by the Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals (OASSP). As assistant principal for the past seven years at Tecumseh High School, Mrs. Griggs has played an instrumental role in creating and developing the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program. Under her guidance, a radio class was formed allowing students to communicate with astronauts aboard the International Space Station. As a result, a curiosity of the boundless expanse of space was fostered. In addition, Griggs' innovation has been highlighted by implementing an internship initiative in which students partner with local business professionals to gain an understanding of real-world work experiences. These shadowing programs have taught job skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, and leadership development. "Mrs. Jaime Griggs is a true advocate for both teachers and students bringing passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to creating a positive school environment,” said Robert Kinsey, Superintendent of Tecumseh Public Schools. “Her efforts of tirelessly supporting teachers, inspiring students, and fostering an environment where everyone can succeed show true dedication to our community, and her leadership makes Tecumseh High School a better place every day." Mrs. Griggs firmly believes relationships are foundational in building a positive school culture. By creating an environment where students and staff feel respected, valued, and supported, a school fashioned on the existence of mental, physical, and social-emotional well-being has been crafted. Furthermore, by utilizing a behavior matrix built on the pillars of responsibility, safety, and respectfulness, conflicts and misunderstandings have been reduced, and mutual respect has been maintained. Finally, by using restorative behavior practices, students are learning regulation, empathy, and responsible choices. "Seven years ago, we hired a 19-year veteran science teacher from Choctaw to become an assistant principal at Tecumseh High School. Jaime has been a great asset to our school and district. She cultivates meaningful relationships with all students and educational colleagues. Jaime's duties and responsibilities are always performed with utmost professionalism," noted Randy Dilbeck, Principal of Tecumseh High School. "She is a tremendous part of our success at Tecumseh High School." Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA Executive Director said, "Congratulations to Jaime Griggs on being named the OASSP Assistant Principal of the Year! Her exceptional leadership of the behavior and counseling teams has created a supportive, student-centered environment that prioritizes well-being and academic growth. Jaime's dedication, compassion, and commitment to fostering a positive school culture are a testament to her impact on students, staff, and the entire school community." “The work of an assistant principal often goes unnoticed,” added Chris LeGrande, OASSP Executive Director. "On behalf of the Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals, it is my honor to congratulate Jaime Griggs on being named the 2024-2025 Oklahoma High School Assistant Principal of the Year. Jaime's unwavering commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive school culture and her dedication to supporting students and staff sets a powerful example of excellence in educational leadership. Her passion and tireless efforts are an inspiration to all of us who strive to make a difference in the lives of young people across our great state." Griggs will be recognized as the High School Assistant Principal of the Year by the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) and the Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals (OASSP) at the CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference in June 2025. Mrs. Griggs will also join her fellow state nominees in Washington, D.C. on April 11, 2025, where NASSP will announce the 2025 NASSP National Middle Level and High School Assistant Principals of the Year during its National Education Leadership Awards ceremony

 

Oklahoma City (December 13, 2024) – Mrs. Dedee Emory, Assistant Principal at Chouteau Middle School, Chouteau-Mazie Public Schools, has been named the 2024-2025 Oklahoma Middle Level Assistant Principal of the Year by the Oklahoma Middle Level Education Association (OMLEA). As assistant principal for the past four years at Chouteau Middle School, Emory has been instrumental in promoting and upholding the school's four core values of respect, on-task behavior, accountability, and responsibility. She emphasizes that her Wildcats ROAR and as such students are expected to demonstrate integrity in all their interactions with peers and staff members. By displaying positive scholarly habits, children can earn and accumulate Wildcat Bucks which can be used to purchase a variety of weekly rewards. Moreover, Mrs. Emory has adopted a restorative framework whereby students learn to reflect on the consequences of their actions, accept responsibility for their behavior, and work toward repairing harm while committing to do better moving forward. "Mrs. Emory is a difference-maker,” said Lori Helton, Superintendent of Chouteau-Mazie Public Schools. “She is trustworthy and sincerely loves the students at Chouteau Middle School. She is dedicated to the success of every student and celebrates with them as they progress along the way. We are blessed to have Mrs. Emory at CMS. The positive impact she makes at Chouteau Middle School is felt across the entire district." Mrs. Emory works diligently to lead learning so that each learner, student, and adult will succeed in a globally competitive society. To achieve this mission, leaders and students jointly drafted a school creed recited daily during announcements. The Chouteau Wildcat Creed demands students assume ownership of their learning by being prepared and focused, taking pride in themselves, their school, and their community, and exhibiting kindness and tolerance. Under Emory's leadership, a culture has been cultivated in which effort, perseverance, practice, and learning from mistakes have become standard components of the educational experience. "Dedee Emory's unwavering dedication to the success of every student and staff member sets her apart as a leader," noted Michelle Brumley, Principal of Chouteau Middle School. "Her ability to inspire, support, and build meaningful connections transforms challenges into opportunities. Her calm and effective communication with students, parents, and staff fosters trusting relationships, making problem-solving appear seamless. Mrs. Emory is truly deserving of this state-wide honor! " Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA Executive Director said, "Congratulations to Dedee Emory on being named the OMLEA Assistant Principal of the Year! Dedee exemplifies what it means to be a servant leader, intentionally building authentic relationships that create a welcoming and caring environment where every student and staff member feels valued and supported. Her dedication to fostering a positive school culture is an inspiration to all of us, and we are proud to celebrate her outstanding leadership and well-deserved recognition." “Assistant principals at the middle school level work selflessly and relentlessly to help students navigate a rather uncertain time in their formative years,” added Chris LeGrande, OASSP/OMLEA Executive Director. "On behalf of the Oklahoma Middle Level Education Association, I am thrilled to congratulate Dedee Emory on being named the 2024-2025 OMLEA Middle Level Assistant Principal of the Year. Dedee's dedication to fostering a supportive and engaging environment for middle school students and staff exemplifies the very best of educational leadership. Her tireless efforts and passion for making a difference in the lives of young people are truly inspiring and deserving of this prestigious recognition." Emory will be recognized as the Oklahoma Middle Level Assistant Principal of the Year by the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) and the Oklahoma Middle Level Education Association (OMLEA) at the CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference in June 2025. Mrs. Emory will also join her fellow state nominees in Washington, D.C. on April 11, 2025, where NASSP will announce the 2025 NASSP National Middle Level and High School Assistant Principals of the Year during its National Education Leadership Awards ceremony.