The Oklahoma Association of Elementary School Principals (OAESP) is pleased to announce Margaret Ploof, Assistant Principal at Freedom Elementary School, Lawton 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). Mrs. Ploof was recognized at the OAESP Leadership Conference in February, at the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) Summer Leadership Conference this May and at the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) National School Leaders Conference in July in Orlando, Florida.
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.
“On behalf of CCOSA, I want to congratulate Margaret Ploof on being selected as the OAESP Assistant Principal of the Year,” said Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA Executive Director. “I commend Mrs. Ploof on her forward-thinking leadership that serves all students. We are grateful for her dedication and commitment to the profession, students, staff, and community.”
Freedom Elementary School Principal Sara Breeze stated, “There is not a more deserving candidate for the honor of OAESP Assistant Principal of the Year than Mrs. Ploof. She leads with an unwavering heart, quiet humility, and an unshakeable belief in the power of education. When others see roadblocks, Mrs. Ploof builds bridges: always bringing calmness, clarity, collaboration, and courage to move our school family forward. Her leadership doesn’t just support excellence; it DEFINES it. I am grateful to stand and serve beside such a wonderful professional.”
“Margaret takes on every task with a positive attitude and servant leader’s heart,“ said Lesa Sparks, Lawton Public Schools Executive Director of Elementary Schools. “No matter what is asked of her, she gives 100%, often exceeding expectations. Her support, leadership, and dedication make a lasting impact not only at her school but also for the entire district.”
“Mrs. Ploof exemplifies the true spirit of an educator and servant leader. With a deep understanding of her students’ unique needs, she goes above and beyond to ensure that each one feels seen, valued, and supported. She is a source of inspiration and exceptionally deserving of this prestigious award,” said Kevin Hime, Lawton Public Schools Superintendent
As an assistant principal, Mrs. Ploof lives by a simple but powerful belief: kids come first – always. She is deeply committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn and succeed. Mrs. Ploof has led and supported meaningful initiatives such as Bubble Day in celebration of Autism Awareness Month, schoolwide parades honoring the Month of the Military Child, and recognition of parents who are veterans and active-duty members of the armed forces. Mrs. Ploof was also instrumental in the addition of an adaptive behavior Pre-K class designed to support students with behavioral needs. As a result, these students entered kindergarten better prepared and are now experiencing greater success in the general education setting.
“Mrs. Ploof is a leader in her school and her community,” states OAESP Executive Director Dr. Glen Abshere. “She goes above and beyond to make sure each child feels welcomed and is successful. We are honored to have Mrs. Ploof 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).