One Torch, One Voice
At AWSP, our mission has always been simple and unwavering: we exist to support every school leader (principals and assistant principals) and the principalship in the education of each and every student. That means supporting our members,
at every level, in every school across Washington.
Every AWSP Active Membership automatically includes membership to either the National Association of Secondary School Principals or the National Association of Elementary School Principals. Today, we’re sharing an update that strengthens that commitment and aligns Washington’s PK–12 leadership voice as we prepare to transition from two separate national partners to a single unified PK–12 national association.
Before we go any further, here’s the most important part:
Your AWSP membership, support, legal protections, and access to our team remain fully intact.
There is no lapse, no interruption, and no dues change for any AWSP member.
This national realignment is designed to support you better — not disrupt anything you rely on.
Why the Change?
AWSP is a single PK–12 association, representing elementary, middle, high school, alternative, and district-level leaders under one roof. That unity is a core strength of our state. Nationally, however, support
for principals has traditionally been split between two separate associations:
While both have contributed meaningful work, this structure has created challenges for PK–12 states like Washington — including misaligned advocacy weeks, separate conferences, different award cycles, and two sets of messaging to Congress.
Over the past year, many states — including ours — have expressed interest in a national structure that mirrors our own:
One unified PK–12 voice for school leaders.
Recently, NASSP’s Board voted to create a new PK–12 National Principals Association (NPA), a reimagined national organization designed to support and advocate for principals across the entire leadership continuum.
Following extensive discussions, the AWSP Board of Directors has voted to:
- Disaffiliate from both existing national associations, and
- Reaffiliate with NASSP once their transition to the new PK–12 National Principals Association is formally approved.
This is a proactive alignment — one that matches Washington’s PK–12 identity and strengthens national advocacy for all principals.
What This Means for You as an AWSP Member
- Your national membership continues.
- NASSP members will transition naturally into the future NPA.
- NAESP members will transition into NPA once the reconstitution is approved.
- We do not anticipate any changes to insurance coverage.
AWSP is working closely with NASSP, and they will work with Forest T. Jones to ensure continuity in coverage for NAESP members.
- Elementary, middle, and high school leaders are all represented.
The new NPA is being built intentionally with balanced governance and programs for all grade levels, mirroring AWSP’s PK–12 model.
- Professional learning stays with AWSP.
NPA will focus on national advocacy and recognition. AWSP continues to lead professional learning, state advocacy, and support here in Washington.
What This Means for NASSP Members
If you are currently an NASSP member:
- Your national membership continues seamlessly.
- You will see NASSP transition into the new PK–12 National Principals Association.
- You will receive an official voting notice from NASSP in early December — your participation will help shape the transition.
What This Means for NAESP Members
If you are currently an NAESP member:
- Your AWSP membership and services remain the same.
- Your new national affiliate membership will transition into the new PK–12 National Principals Association once the reconstitution is approved.
- We are working closely with Forest T. Jones to ensure your accrued legal-benefit years transfer without interruption.
Your elementary leadership voice remains central in this transition.
Let’s Talk More
I know this is a meaningful shift, and I want to make space for your questions and conversations. I will be hosting a series of Member Office Hours via Zoom where I’ll walk through the transition, answer questions, and ensure you have clear
information about what this means for you and for AWSP.
Member Office Hours
- Tuesday | December 2 | 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
- Wednesday | December 3 | 7:30 - 8:30 a.m.
- Register here.
Your leadership matters deeply — to your school community, to our state, and to this profession. Thank you for the incredible work you do every day, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything I can clarify or support.
FAQ
Will my legal coverage continue?
Yes. AWSP has been assured that there is no lapse in liability protection or legal benefits as transitions occur.
Will my years of NAESP insurance accrue toward NPA?
We do not anticipate any changes or reductions. Both organizations use the same insurer, Forest T. Jones, and NASSP is working directly with them to ensure continuity.
Is AWSP still PK–12?
Absolutely. That part never changes.
Can I still receive professional learning through AWSP?
Yes! AWSP continues to lead professional learning here in Washington. And of course, we have the strongest student leadership organization in the country right here with the Association of Washington Student Leaders.
Is this a major shift for my day-to-day work?
No. Your AWSP experience remains exactly the same. This change provides clearer alignment and a stronger national voice.
Why not stay with NAESP?
This shift is based on structural alignment — Washington is PK–12, and NPA will also be PK–12. This gives Washington principals a unified national presence that matches our statewide model.
Next Steps
Watch your inbox for an official national vote notice (NASSP members). Join one of our Member Office Hours on Dec. 2 or Dec. 3 to learn more, ask questions, and hear the vision for this PK–12
alignment.
Reach out to us anytime — we’re here to support you through every step.
Final Thought From AWSP
No matter your role, grade level, or school setting, you are part of a powerful PK–12 leadership community here in Washington. This national alignment builds on that strength and positions the principalship for a more unified and influential future
— one where your voice is even stronger.
As always, thank you for your leadership and for everything you do for kids.