Opelika, Ala, January 26, 2024 – Mr. Keith York, principal of Opelika Middle School in the Opelika City School System, has been named the 2024 Alabama Middle School Principal of the Year by the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP). 

Mr. York's educational philosophy is centered around being a positive role model and supporting his staff and students. He believes in leading not from the top down, but as a supporter and facilitator, embodying the values of respect and empowerment. His approach to education has been shaped by his own experiences and the influence of mentors. Through his leadership, Opelika Middle School has become a place where all stakeholders feel valued and inspired to achieve their best, fostering an environment often referred to as the "OMS Family." 

Under Mr. York's leadership, Opelika Middle School has introduced several outstanding programs focusing on the holistic development of students. Notable among these is the Career Discovery initiative, where students interact with community partners across various career fields. This initiative, coupled with the implementation of the You Science Career Development program, allows students to explore career paths aligned with their interests and aptitudes. The school's focus on career awareness and 21st-century skills is exemplified by opportunities for students to earn career certifications, ensuring they are prepared for the demands of the modern economy. 

Mr. York holds an educational specialist degree in educational leadership from Troy University, a master’s in educational leadership from Troy University, and a bachelor's degree in physical education from Auburn University. With over 31 years of experience in education, Mr. York's career has been marked by various leadership roles, including assistant principal and physical education teacher. His journey has been one of continuous learning and adaptation, always keeping the well-being and growth of his students at the forefront. 

"Mr. Keith York's recognition as Alabama's Middle School Principal of the Year is a testament to his exceptional leadership and commitment to education. His active involvement in the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) Board of Directors and the Alabama Association of Middle School Principals (AAMSP) reflects his dedication to not only Opelika Middle School but also to the broader educational community in Alabama. His contributions to these organizations are invaluable, making him a beacon of inspiration for educational leaders statewide." 

Mr. York will represent the state in the Principal of the Year program hosted by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). His leadership and dedication to education serve as an inspiration not only to his students and staff at Opelika Middle School but also to educational leaders across the nation. Mr. York will be recognized at the Awards Luncheon during the CLAS Convention in June. He will also be recognized at the AASSP/AAMSP Fall Conference in November 2024. 

For further information, please contact Alyssa Godfrey, Director of Communications and Technology at the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) at (800) 239-3616 or alyssa@clasleaders.org.  

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About AASSP and CLAS: 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 that serves thirteen different affiliates comprised of Alabama’s public school administrators.  CLAS is dedicated to providing the framework to connect dedicated school administrators and other successful leaders with a network for professional growth and support.  For more information, visit www.clasleaders.org. 

About Horace Mann: Horace Mann helps educators and school employees achieve financial success at every stage of their lives. They understand the importance of staying within a budget. With strategies to reduce student loan debt, secure classroom funding without using personal funds, and insurance program reviews to find savings, they work with educators to maximize hard-earned dollars and develop a path to a successful financial future. Horace Mann is a long-time supporter of CLAS and the sponsor of the Alabama Middle School Principal of the Year award. 

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