Kyrene Traditional Academy Principal Dr. Marianne Lescher has been selected as Arizona’s 2025 National Distinguished Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP). She is being recognized this week at an event in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Lescher reflected on her career and the honor, stating, “Every chapter of my career has reinforced my passion for creating schools where students love to learn and teachers love to teach. This honor represents not just my work, but the extraordinary educators and families who have walked alongside me in building communities where excellence is the expectation and every child feels known, respected and valued.”
The National Distinguished Principal program was established in 1984 to recognize public school leaders from pre-K through 8th grade across the United States. Candidates are nominated by their peers within their state, with final selections made by committees appointed by each NAESP state affiliate office. The selection process focuses on principals’ records of setting high standards for instruction, student achievement, character development, and school climate.
During her 25 years as a principal, Dr. Lescher has received multiple awards. Two schools under her leadership have earned Arizona A+ School of Excellence status six times collectively. For the past 13 years, she has led Kyrene Traditional Academy and oversaw its transition in 2011 from an elementary school to a kindergarten through eighth-grade traditional model school. In 2015, Kyrene Traditional Academy became the first school in its district to be recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School.
Kyrene Superintendent Laura Toenjes commented on Dr. Lescher’s contributions: “Dr. Lescher’s leadership has made a lasting impact on Kyrene Traditional Academy and Kyrene School District. Her commitment to high standards and continuous improvement exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and care.”
This year’s group of 43 National Distinguished Principal honorees will participate in a two-day event in Washington, D.C., from October 23-24, which includes opportunities for networking and professional development.
