Hale Yes! Nathan Hale School Leader Named Secondary Principal of the Year 

Dr. William Jackson, principal at Nathan Hale High School, was named this year’s Washington State Secondary Principal of the Year. He also will be recognized by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Jackson will compete with winners from other states for the NASSP’s National Principal of the Year award. 

Jackson has been a school leader for seven years and leads with a belief in “honoring the brilliance of students by centering their voice in [the] curricular and school design. Jackson takes a justice-centered approach that leads to high engagement in learning, and strong academic outcomes.”  

Jackson received a record-breaking number of nominations which included phrases such as “transformational leadership,” “connector of people,” and “loved and admired.”  

Superintendent Brent Jones said Jackson has a clear vision of how to systemically build climate for equity, justice, and academic outcomes.” 

“He leads with humbleness, intentionality, and steadfastness resulting in bold outcomes,” Jones said. 

In April, the Alliance for Education awarded the 2023 Thomas B. Foster Award for Excellence to Jackson. He was the recipient of a $25,000 grant for his school.  

The Foster Award recognizes outstanding SPS principals who have demonstrated success in advancing educational justice and racial equity in their school community.  

Dr. Jackson will be recognized and celebrated in Washington D.C., next year.