Nederland ISD Assistant Principal Named 2025 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year for Texas
With a focus on building positive relationships, Lainey Hanna has enhanced student learning and strengthened school-community connections at Helena Park Elementary in Nederland ISD. Hanna’s leadership and unwavering dedication to ensuring student success have led her to be named the 2025 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year for Texas.
“Lainey leads with empathy and a student-centered vision. She optimizes the emotional and relationship aspects that drive student engagement to ensure learners on her campus reach their full potential,” TEPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart said. “Students feel valued, supported and empowered to contribute to their community.”
Hanna has played a pivotal role in numerous successful initiatives on her campus including the K-Kids program, a branch of Kiwanis International, which promotes student leadership and imparts the value of community service and involvement. The student-led monthly projects have provided critical opportunities for students to develop valuable life skills and deepen their connection to their community by helping address local needs. Student projects have ranged from supporting the local humane society with pet supply donations, creating a campus garden, and raising funds for cancer research.
Hanna’s emphasis on building trusting relationships have contributed significantly to student achievement and fostered a nurturing learning environment for students and teachers. Hanna led the collective efforts to improve student behavior and engagement through the Capturing Kids Hearts program focused on relationship-building and social-emotional learning. Results from the program have been so successful that the school has earned the prestigious National Showcase School designation.
“Our teachers and staff…value Lainey’s experience, input regarding student concerns, and feedback related to their instructional practices. She has fostered strong relationships with our team that directly impact student growth and academic success which is reflected in our high test scores in grades 3-5, strengthened literacy in grades K-2, and increased rigor in instructional practices,” Charlotte Junot, Helena Park Elementary Principal wrote in her recommendation letter.
The NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year for Texas award is sponsored by TEPSA in coordination with the National Association of Elementary School Principals. The award recognizes assistant principals who have demonstrated a positive impact on students and learning. Criteria include:
- A commitment to excellence and exceptional leadership as evidenced by student achievement and programs designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students.
- Firmly established community ties and respect from teachers, students, and the community.
- Exceptional leadership in a particular school program.
TEPSA is proud to have Horace Mann supporting the Texas program.
“A true leader, Lainey has created programs that nurture child growth and uplift the community. Her dedication and vision have made a lasting impact inspiring learning, compassion and opportunity for all. Horace Mann is honored to recognize Lainey as the National AP of the Year for Texas!” Lori Gray, Horace Mann Agency Consultant said.
Hanna will be recognized with her peers at the TEPSA Legacy Luncheon Wednesday, June 11.
