Florence, Alabama – March 24, 2023 - Ms. Melanie Harris, assistant principal of Hibbett Intermediate School in the Florence City School System, has been recognized as the 2023 Alabama NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal by the Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators (AAESA). The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) recognizes the winner from each state annually in its National Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year program.

Ms. Harris has been a dedicated member of the Florence City School System for many years, and her commitment to education and student success has not gone unnoticed. Her colleagues and students hold her in high regard and commend her for her tireless efforts to create a welcoming and nurturing learning environment for students.

The Alabama NAESP Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year award recognizes exemplary leadership and dedication to education. Ms. Harris's nomination highlighted her exceptional leadership skills, innovative approaches to education, and unwavering commitment to students and their families.

"Melanie Harris is an outstanding leader and educator who has dedicated her career to creating a positive impact in the lives of her students," said Vic Wilson, executive director of the Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators. "Her innovative approaches to education and unwavering commitment to student success make her a true asset to the Florence City School System and the entire state of Alabama. We are honored to recognize Ms. Harris as the 2023 Alabama NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year and applaud her exceptional leadership and dedication to education."

Ms. Harris's exceptional leadership skills extend beyond her dedication to student success. She has also demonstrated her ability to engage and collaborate with parents and staff to create a more supportive and cohesive school community. Ms. Harris was instrumental in re-establishing the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) at Hibbett Intermediate School, which has resulted in increased parent involvement and support for students and staff.

Furthermore, Ms. Harris's excellent communication skills have been an asset to the school community. She implemented the Hibbett Hub, a weekly newsletter that keeps administrators and staff updated on school news, events, and initiatives. The Hibbett Hub has proven to be an effective tool for improving communication and increasing collaboration among staff and administrators.

Ms. Harris's commitment to fostering strong relationships between parents, staff, and students has contributed significantly to the positive culture at Hibbett Intermediate School. Her leadership, dedication, and innovative approach to education have undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the school community and earned her the well-deserved recognition as the 2023 Alabama NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year.