Ms. Stephanie Jackson, principal at Parkview Elementary School in Sedalia, MO, has been selected by the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) as the 2022 National Distinguished Principal from Missouri for the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) Distinguished Principals Program. Jackson was one of 11 principals nominated by colleagues from MAESP regional networks around the state who were honored March 5 at a reception and banquet at Margaritaville Lake Resort in Osage Beach. The event was held in conjunction with the annual MAESP Leadership Conference.

Ms. Jackson completed degrees from Missouri Valley, University of Missouri, Lindenwood University and William Woods University. She began her teaching journey in Sedalia as a fourth-grade teacher in 1998 before joining the Boonville School District in 2000 as a fourth and fifth grade teacher and assistant varsity basketball coach. Jackson moved back to Sedalia as an instructional coach and later became the assistant principal at Smith-Cotton Junior High. She was appointed elementary principal at Parkview in 2013.

Stephanie takes pride in her strong work ethic and is proud to be a servant leader for her students, staff, and community. Parkview kindergarten teacher Anna Katherine Harvey says, “Stephanie goes above and beyond in every way possible for her staff, students, and parents. She loves her job, and it shows in every aspect of her life. Stephanie encourages staff to make school the best place for students and the staff is blessed by her leadership. She is always working, always listening, and always caring.”

MAESP Executive Director, Dr. Michael L. Schooley said, “Stephanie Jackson is one of the numerous outstanding school principals in our state who go above and beyond for their school communities. MAESP is so proud to hold Stephanie up as one of Missouri’s finest and I am proud to call her colleague and friend.”

Over her nine years at Parkview, she has assembled a team of passionate and dedicated educators. She launched a Building Leadership Team and with input from students, staff, and community members. She and her team developed a school mission and vision, and all decisions are based on what is best for kids that align to the school’s values and beliefs.

Ms. Jackson believes strongly in professional development and has provided meaningful experiences for her staff by bringing in nationally recognized educators, both virtually and in-person, including, Tara Martin, Adam Dovico, and Adam Welcome.

Stephanie knows the work of a leader must begin with a strong support system at home. She appreciates the support she receives from her husband of 21 years, Chad, and her two children Kendall (15) and Ian (13).

Stephanie will join more than 50 other recognized elementary and middle level school principals in Washington, D.C. in October for the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) National Distinguished Principals Recognition Program.

For more information, contact Dr. Michael L. Schooley, Executive Director, Missouri Association of Elementary Principals (MAESP) headquartered in Jefferson City, Missouri. mschooley@maesp.com