The Oklahoma Middle-Level Education Association (OMLEA) is pleased to announce Dr. Bobbi Gillham as the 2026 Middle-Level Principal of the Year.
Dr. Gillham has served as principal of Pansy Kidd Middle School (PKMS) for the past six years, where she has worked diligently to establish a comprehensive multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) grounded in trauma-responsive practices. Her leadership has resulted in systems that support students’ social-emotional and behavioral needs, enhance the school’s physical environment, and strengthen the overall sense of safety and belonging among students, staff, and families. Through intentional storytelling, strong family engagement, and partnerships with community organizations, PKMS has become recognized as a welcoming, student-centered school exemplifying the district’s vision: “Every Pirate, Every Day.”
“Poteau is honored and humbled to represent the state of Oklahoma with the Middle School Principal of the Year,” said Superintendent Scott Kempenich. “Dr. Gillham has worked diligently for many years in Poteau, transforming our middle school culture and academics into one of the best in the state.”
Under Dr. Gillham’s leadership, shared leadership has become a defining feature of the school’s culture. She champions the belief that every member of the school community can lead when given meaningful opportunities to contribute. Her collaborative approach is anchored in three core principles: empowerment through inclusion, leadership through purpose, and accountability through shared ownership. At PKMS, teaching and learning center on preparing students to think critically, communicate clearly, and collaborate effectively in an increasingly complex world. As a member of the OK A+ Schools® Network since 2021, PKMS teachers integrate drama, music, visual arts, and other creative strategies into academic instruction to deepen student engagement and understanding.
“CCOSA is proud to congratulate Dr. Bobbi Gillham on being named OMLEA Principal of the Year,” said Dr. Pam Deering, CCOSA Executive Director. “She is a dynamic instructional leader who places students at the heart of every decision and empowers her staff to do the same. Her commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging school culture is evident in her students’ success, her teachers’ growth, and the strong support of the Poteau community.”
“This recognition reflects not only Dr. Gillham’s professionalism and dedication, but also her passion for middle-level education and her unwavering belief in what Oklahoma students can achieve,” said OMLEA Executive Director Chris LeGrande. “We are incredibly proud of her and grateful for her leadership as she continues to model excellence, integrity, and heart.”
In addition to being honored at the CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference in May 2026, Dr. Gillham will join fellow state nominees in Washington, D.C., in April 2026, when the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) announces the National Middle Level and High School Principals of the Year during its annual National Education Leadership Awards celebration. This is only the second time since 2014 that NASSP has expanded its recognition program to honor both middle-level and high school principals.