Florence school leader named National Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year

The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) recognized two exceptional educators as the 2025 National Assistant Principals of the Year. Elizabeth “Liz” Nelson of Pilgrim Park Middle School in Elm Grove, WI, received the middle level honor, while Rahsaan “Saani” Perry of West Florence High School in Florence District One was named the high school recipient.

Mr. Saani Perry is an assistant principal at West Florence High School in Florence, SC, where he has achieved notable success in both academic growth and community engagement. He has spearheaded the expansion of the STEM magnet program, which has grown by more than 60 students, introduced eight new courses, and added four new faculty members. He initiated several key programs, including the Shining Knights program, which recognizes students for excellence in leadership, arts, athletics, academics, and community service. He introduced Wellness Weekends, offering students and staff an opportunity to focus on mental and physical health by taking a break from academic and professional responsibilities. He also founded the Sharper Knights male mentoring program to provide guidance and support for students.

“Assistant principals are the unsung heroes of education, working tirelessly behind the scenes to create safe, supportive environments where students can thrive,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “Liz Nelson and Saani Perry exemplify what it means to lead with innovation and heart, transforming their schools into student-centered communities of learning. At NASSP, we are proud to celebrate their achievements and remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting school leaders nationwide.”

“We are honored to celebrate Mr. Saani Perry, the 2025 National Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year,” said Dr. Quincie Moore, Executive Director of the South Carolina Association of School Administrators. “Through initiatives like West Cares, which empowers students to report concerns related to safety, well-being, and mental health, and the Sharper Knights mentorship program, Mr. Perry has demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering a supportive and safe school culture. Mr. Perry also led the transition away from a traditional bell schedule—a change that has not only improved student engagement but also facilitated opportunities for students and teachers to build relationships through shared interests. Saani’s national recognition marks a banner year for South Carolina school leaders—with both the 2025 National Secondary Principal of the Year and 2025 National Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year hailing from the Palmetto State.”

“We are so excited that Mr. Perry has been named National Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year,” said Florence School District One Superintendent Dr. Richard O’Malley. “This prestigious recognition is a testament to his exceptional leadership, vision, and tireless commitment to fostering a culture of excellence within the West Florence High School community. Mr. Perry’s ability to inspire both students and staff has set a standard of educational leadership that is truly deserving of national distinction. The presentation of this award to him is another shining example of the great things happening in the Florence One School system and the winning tradition we have set here in Florence, SC.”

Principal of West Florence High School Matt Dowdell continued, “Since his first day on campus, Mr. Perry has made it his mission to serve our student body, staff, and broader community with passion and purpose. This national recognition reflects what our school has long known—Mr. Perry is a transformative leader whose presence has changed lives. More than just a leader, Mr. Perry is a source of hope. In a time when hope can feel distant for many young people, Mr. Perry brings it back to life. He helps students see what they can become. He inspires them to grow into their potential and encourages them to dream beyond their circumstances.”

“This honor is not just mine—it belongs to the incredible West Florence High School community members who make our school such a special home,” said Mr. Perry. “It’s a privilege to serve in a role where I can push the boundaries of what’s possible for our students and educators.”

The announcement came at the National Education Leadership Awards gala in Washington, D.C. on April 11, bringing together National Honor Society Scholarship finalists, National Association of School Councils Scholarship winners, and State Assistant Principals of the Year.

The NASSP National Assistant Principal of the Year program annually recognizes outstanding middle level and high school assistant principals who have succeeded in providing high-quality learning opportunities for students. Each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity, and the U.S. Department of State Office of Overseas Schools may select one middle-level assistant principal and one high school assistant principal to represent their state. Applications of state winners are then reviewed by past state-level principals of the year, education leaders and experts, and NASSP staff.

SCASA, the professional organization for school leaders in South Carolina, has more than 5,600 members. From professional development opportunities and research to publications and legislative advocacy, SCASA’s focus is to support school leaders in providing the best possible education for South Carolina’s young people. As a state affiliate of three national associations for school leaders, SCASA also works on the national level.