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).