MSA Superintendent of the Year

ROUND 5: LEADERSHIP

This round will take place from March 31-April 4.

Albuquerque Public Schools

Mrs. Blakey has provided a new leadership vision for APS. Mrs. Blakey has led by example by being visible at school sites on a regular basis. Mrs. Blakey had the district visit every school (122) the first week of school, and have the district officials better understand the school they visited. Mrs. Blakey has made a commitment to leveraging our magnet schools as an option for an excellent education. Mrs. Blakey has also advocated strongly her commitment to equity and access. Mrs. Blakey revamped the student enrollment lottery system so ALL students are given an opportunity to attend their school of choice.

Clayton County Public Schools

Clayton County Public Schools exemplifies leadership through its commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Guided by visionary leadership, we have fostered a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement that inspires both students and staff to reach their full potential. Our administrators prioritize transparent decision-making, ensuring every voice is valued in shaping our district’s future.

We have implemented cutting-edge programs that empower students to develop as leaders, such as peer mentoring, student government, and leadership academies. Our educators model strong leadership by integrating professional development and embracing best practices, elevating teaching quality and student outcomes. Additionally, our district partners with local businesses, nonprofits, and higher education institutions to provide leadership opportunities beyond the classroom. These efforts have resulted in national recognition, increased student engagement, and a clear pathway to success for graduates. Our leadership-driven initiatives reflect our mission to prepare future leaders who will thrive in a dynamic world.

Marion County Public Schools

Magnet schools in Marion County Public Schools cultivate leadership at every level, empowering both students and staff to excel as confident leaders. Magnet schools often require specialized training for staff and adults with a growth mindset. Leadership development is embedded within these opportunities, and it fosters teamwork, communication, and decision-making. Our magnet professionals take initiative, solve problems, and embrace responsibility. These qualities are reflected in the opportunities created by staff to enhance programs and ultimately demonstrate positive results in student achievement. School leaders are provided with specialized training through the National Institute of School Leaders (NISL) certification program. Principals and Assistant Principals are prepared to model effective leadership and support the implementation of high-quality instruction while creating inclusive environments where every voice is valued. Many of our programs are tackling interdisciplinary challenges and organizing projects for the benefit of their students, ultimately strengthening the entire community with their commitment to leadership. The qualities of high integrity, personal character, and commitment to the work to create positive change translate to students when demonstrated across a school landscape, creating leaders within.

Miami-Dade County Public Schools

In Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS), leadership is a foundational pillar embodied by our esteemed Superintendent, Dr. José L. Dotres. With his guidance, M-DCPS fosters a culture of empowerment that permeates every aspect of our educational framework, from the dedication of our administrators to the vision of our educators. This collective leadership propels students toward leadership roles within their communities and beyond, igniting a passion for learning that resonates throughout our Magnet Schools.

Through visionary leadership and steadfast dedication, M-DCPS is committed to nurturing the next generation of changemakers. Dr. Dotres’s vision for positioning M-DCPS as a district of choice for students and parents and an employer of choice for the community drives our mission forward. Together, we equip our students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to confront the challenges of tomorrow with resilience and ingenuity.

M-DCPS also proudly leads the nation in Merit Magnet Awards, a testament to the unparalleled quality of our magnet programs.

Richland School District Two

Richland School District Two embodies exceptional Leadership, fostering visionary leaders dedicated to student success and organizational excellence. Leadership development is seamlessly integrated into district practices by the superintendent, reflecting her 12 essential keys to leadership success. Hence, having the 2019 National Magnet Principal of the Year award recipient and numerous Region IV National Magnet Principals of the Year.

Dr. Moore emphasizes the importance of setting clear priorities, enabling leaders to focus on impactful goals that align with the district’s mission. By cultivating trusted networks of mentors and colleagues, leaders build meaningful connections that support collaboration and innovation. Personal and professional growth are championed through structured plans that guide aspirations, identify skill gaps, and ensure accountability.

Leaders embrace a mindset of continuous learning, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. They communicate effectively to inspire action, manage stakeholder expectations with transparency, and unite teams around a shared vision.

Seminole County Public Schools

Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, both in the classroom and within the broader community. The district’s leadership initiatives emphasize innovation, collaboration, and student-centered growth. SCPS administrators and educators foster a culture of empowerment by offering professional development programs that strengthen leadership skills at all levels. The district has earned recognition for its efforts in creating pathways for students to develop leadership skills through student government, extracurricular activities, and leadership academies. SCPS also emphasizes diversity in its leadership training, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed and lead. The district’s exceptional leadership is evident in its continued academic excellence, high graduation rates, and successful implementation of cutting-edge technology and curriculum. Through ongoing mentorship and a commitment to fostering future leaders, Seminole County Public Schools has built a strong legacy of leadership that impacts students, staff, and the community.

Q: When does the contest start and end?

A: The contest begins the first week of February and ends at the MSA Annual Conference in April.

Q: Who is eligible for the contest?

A: All MSA District Members, and all districts with an MSA School/District Office/Institution Member, are eligible to participate.

Q: Is MSA providing a media kit with hashtags, messages, etc. to help with engagement and voting?

A: Yes, MSA has this dedicated webpage with more details about the competition’s guidelines and rules. We will also release a toolkit to help spread the word on your social channels.

Q: Does Magnet Mania take the place of the application-based process for Superintendent of the Year? 

A: Yes, it will take the place of the application-based award.

Q: What is the expectation in terms of district-based involvement?

A: Prior to January 24, 2025, each participating district must complete this form, uploading a district logo and providing basic information about the district’s accomplishments and achievements for each of the Five Pillars. (a 150 word max per pillar)

Q: Will all districts in the competition participate in each round until eliminated?

A: Not necessarily. Because there may be an uneven number of participating districts, the tournament may include byes, meaning that some districts may not be required to participate in some rounds. These assignments will be generated randomly. 

Q: Who receives the cash prize?

A: The cash prize for the winner, the runner-up, and the additional prizes during each round will go to the district, not to the superintendent personally. The winning superintendent will receive a trophy/plaque and will be recognized at MSA 2025.