DOTHAN, ALA. – January 19, 2024: Mr. Charles Longshore, assistant principal at Dothan Preparatory Academy in the Dothan City School System has been named the Alabama Assistant Principal of the Year by the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP). As the Alabama state winner, Longshore will represent Alabama in the 2024 National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) National Assistant Principal of the Year selection process.

Throughout his tenure at Dothan Preparatory Academy, Mr. Longshore has been a catalyst for positive change, adeptly handling challenges and inspiring both staff and students. His first year was marked by a transformative approach to disciplinary issues, reducing referrals through empathy and engagement, and ensuring that students’ basic needs were met to foster a conducive learning environment. He has played a pivotal role in changing the school's culture, emphasizing respect and high expectations, resulting in a significant decrease in disciplinary cases and a positive shift in the school climate. 

Mr. Longshore’s dedication to professional development is evident as he successfully guided new teachers through classroom management strategies, contributing to an impressive retention rate. His innovative strategies, such as the implementation of collaborative planning and assessments within the science department, have strengthened instructional practices and enhanced student learning experiences.

Mr. Longshore holds an Educational Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Alabama, where he also earned his master’s degrees in Instructional Leadership and Secondary Education Social Science. With 19 years of experience in the field of education with 3 of those years as an assistant principal, Mr. Longshore's career is distinguished by his commitment to excellence and innovation in education. 

"We are thrilled to recognize Mr. Longshore for his exceptional dedication and innovative contributions to education," said Dr. Vic Wilson, Executive Director of AASSP and the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS). " His leadership is a beacon of adaptability and resourcefulness.”

A panel of judges selected Longshore from numerous applicants across the state of Alabama. The surprise announcement was made at a surprise presentation at Dothan Preparatory Academy. He will represent the state as Alabama’s nominee for the National Assistant Principal of the Year award sponsored by NASSP. Longshore will also serve a one-year term on the AASSP Board of Directors as the Assistant Principal of the Year.

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About AASSP: The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals is an affiliate association of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS). CLAS is an umbrella association serving thirteen affiliates comprised of Alabama’s public school leaders. CLAS provides the framework connecting dedicated school administrators and other successful leaders with a network for professional growth and support. For more information, visit www.clasleaders.org.

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