Five exceptional students are beginning their college journeys with support from the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA), which has awarded them the 2026 Diann Woodard S
Some students have lost their mother, while others live apart from her due to divorce, incarceration, military deployment, or other complex circumstances.
“As a principal, you’re everything to everyone,” Clarence says. “Our children are our most precious jewels. We have to treasure them. Students need leaders who are passionate about their growth and who hold themselves and other educators accountable.”
The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) announced that its Board of Directors has selected Stephanie A. Morris as the organization’s next executive director. Morris will assume the role on August 1, 2026, following a planned leadership transition.
Well, here we are again. CPS is preparing to roll out school budgets for next year.
This past year was complicated. The FY26 budget was introduced before long-term funding was secured, creating uncertainty across the system and prompting strong advocacy from CPAA. That included our letter-writing campaign around TIF releases and direct engagement with city leadership. The mayor met privately with CPAA members to answer direct questions about what was and was not protected for CPS.
We are calling an in-person meeting for assistant principals to get aligned on contract/bargaining priorities and strategy.
The reality is … APs are being asked to carry more, with fewer protections and without compensation that reflects the role. That includes everything from sick-day limitations to the added responsibilities many of you are taking on daily without adequate pay.
School leaders from across the country gathered on Capitol Hill last week, bringing urgent concerns about student mental health, school safety, and educator support directly to federal lawmakers. AFSA members met with members of Congress and their staff, where they shared firsthand experiences from their schools and communities and advocated for stronger federal support in key areas impacting student success.
Today, along with many of our members, CPAA learned that CPS is considering amending the school calendar by designating May 1, 2026, as a Day of Civic Action with no student attendance.
