An Iowa school leader is being recognized on the national stage this week for her outstanding contributions to education. Jayme Braida, the principal of Columbus Elementary School in Chariton and a resident of Knoxville, has been named one of the 2025 National Distinguished Principals by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP).
Braida is among a select group of 43 elementary and middle-level principals from across the United States who traveled to Washington, D.C., to be honored for their exceptional leadership and commitment to their students and communities.
Key Takeaways
- Jayme Braida, principal of Columbus Elementary in Chariton, is one of 43 principals nationwide to receive the 2025 National Distinguished Principal award.
- The honor is presented by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) in Washington, D.C.
- Selection criteria for the award focus on academic programs, meeting student social needs, and strong community engagement.
- Since 1984, the program has recognized over 2,400 principals for their superior contributions to education.
A National Recognition for Local Leadership
The National Distinguished Principal (NDP) program is a long-standing tradition designed to celebrate the achievements of school leaders who have demonstrated a significant impact. The 43 honorees, including Braida, are participating in two days of events in the nation's capital, culminating in a formal awards banquet held at The Willard InterContinental hotel.
The event provides a platform for these accomplished educators to share insights, discuss best practices, and collaborate with peers from different regions. The selection process is rigorous, with each principal chosen by their respective NAESP state affiliate for their exemplary performance.
A Legacy of Excellence
The NAESP has been honoring top principals through the National Distinguished Principal program since 1984. This year's class of 43 joins a prestigious group of 2,364 previous recipients, highlighting the program's four-decade history of celebrating educational leadership.
The Criteria for Distinction
To be selected as a National Distinguished Principal, candidates must meet a high standard of professional excellence. The criteria emphasize a commitment to the well-being and development of all students.
Key requirements for the honor include:
- Being an active principal of a pre-K-8 school.
- Overseeing school programs designed to meet the academic and social needs of every student.
- Fostering firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations.
Braida's selection indicates that her work at Columbus Elementary School has successfully addressed these critical areas, creating a supportive and effective learning environment that extends beyond the classroom walls.
43 principals were selected for the 2025 honor, representing some of the most effective school leaders from across the nation.
Praise for Modern School Leaders
In a statement recognizing the 2025 honorees, the NAESP highlighted the evolving challenges facing educators today. The organization praised the principals for their ability to lead through change while maintaining a focus on student success.
“School principals continue to show exceptional adaptability and creativity in meeting the changing needs of students and staff,” said L. Earl Franks, Ed.D., CAE, the Executive Director of NAESP. “The 2025 NAESP NDPs exemplify this resilience and leadership well beyond the status quo. Congratulations to this outstanding class of deserving school leaders.”
This commendation underscores the importance of strong, innovative leadership in today's schools. The award not only celebrates past accomplishments but also acknowledges the forward-thinking approaches these principals bring to their roles every day.
Celebrating Iowa's Contribution to Education
Braida’s achievement brings national attention to the quality of school leadership within Iowa. As the principal of Columbus Elementary in Chariton, her work directly impacts the daily lives of students and families in the community. Her recognition serves as an inspiration for educators across the state.
The honor reflects a career dedicated to creating a positive school culture where students can thrive academically and socially. By building strong connections with parents and local partners, principals like Braida ensure that the entire community is invested in the success of its youngest members.
As the events conclude in Washington, D.C., the focus will return to the local communities where these distinguished principals continue their vital work. For Jayme Braida and Columbus Elementary, this national honor is a testament to the powerful impact of dedicated leadership in a local school.