St. Mary’s County Principal Named Finalist for National Principal of the Year
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St. Mary’s County Principal Named Finalist for National Principal of the Year
BALTIMORE (April 13, 2026) – Dr. Deborah Dennie, principal of Leonardtown Middle School in St. Mary’s County Public Schools, is a finalist for the National Principal of the Year Award from the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).
One of three middle school finalists nationwide, Dr. Dennie has led Leonardtown for 10 years. The national award honors outstanding contributions to student success, school improvement, and educational leadership.
“Dr. Dennie is an outstanding school leader who cares deeply for her students, educators, and school community,” said Dr. Carey Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “Her dedication and vision are a powerful example of what strong, student‑centered leadership can achieve.”
“Principal Dennie represents the level of excellence we strive for in school leadership across our state,” said Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board of Education President. “Her commitment to elevating teaching and learning, and dedication to mentoring and empowering educators, has strengthened her entire school community.”
Awards for middle and high school National Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year will be announced Friday, April 17 at the NASSP National Education Leadership Awards Gala in Washington, D.C.
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