Virginia Department of Education Announces Inaugural Class of Highly Accomplished State Principals

RICHMOND, Va — The Virginia Department of Education announced today the inaugural class of the state’s Principals of Distinction for the 2025-2026 school year, recognizing school leaders who demonstrate outstanding leadership, inspire excellence, and make a lasting impact on student learning and growth.

The announcement, made by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), highlights principals selected through a partnership with the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals and the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals. The program is authorized under Section 8VAC20-23-620 (F) of the Virginia Administrative Code, which outlines pathways for principals to earn recognition based on demonstrated effectiveness in administration and supervision PreK–12.

Among those recognized is Shane Wolfe, principal of Aldrin Elementary School, who was selected for the Principal of Distinction Program in October 2025. As part of the honor, Mr. Wolfe participated in a professional development symposium in Richmond focused on leadership, collaboration, and continuous school improvement. He attended alongside Annandale High School Principal Shawn DeRose and South County High School Principal Kambar Khoshaba.

The recognition includes a capstone project requirement to demonstrate school-level impact, which principals must complete to earn the Level II Principal of Distinction endorsement. Mr. Wolfe’s participation in the program was celebrated by Aldrin Elementary School’s community, including a visit from Superintendent Dr. Reed on November 3, 2025, who noted the principal’s dedication, vision, and commitment to students and staff.

The Principals of Distinction Program is designed to honor school leaders who go beyond standard expectations to foster excellence in their schools. VDOE emphasizes that recipients are chosen not only for administrative skill but for their ability to inspire teaching excellence and improve student outcomes across their school communities.

This inaugural class marks the first cohort recognized under the renewed initiative, which aims to elevate the role of principals as instructional leaders and champions of equity and innovation in Virginia’s public education system. The program continues to accept nominations and evaluations for future cohorts, with the goal of building a network of distinguished school leaders across the Commonwealth.