Welcome International Educators, Jennifer Stockbridge and La Tyia Rolle, Among the Best K – 8 Principals
Jennifer Stockbridge and La Tyia Rolle, were selected as International School educators for the 2023 National Distinguished Principals Award. The U.S.-based National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) established the program in 1984 to recognize and celebrate elementary and middle-level principals in the United States, who set high standards for instruction, student achievement, character, and climate for the students, families, and staff in their learning communities.
From the beginning of the Award program, outstanding principals have been selected from the international schools that are assisted by the Office of Overseas Schools of the United States Department of State. Stockbridge’s nomination was supported by Director of the school, Kerry Jacob Director at the American School of Lima, and selected from among several nominees. Rolle’s nomination was supported by Director of the school, Grit Orgis Director at John F. Kennedy School, Berlin and selected from among several nominees.
“As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the NAESP NDP program, it’s fitting to reflect on the strength, dedication, and tenacity of the school leader,” said NAESP Executive Director L. Earl Franks, Ed.D., CAE. “In those four decades, principals have found successful solutions to unforeseen challenges and grown in their practice to meet new needs of students and staff. These NAESP NDPs are no exception. Congratulations to the 2023 class, who we proudly recognize for their continued commitment to putting students and staff first, serving as innovative problem-solvers in an evolving education landscape, and building relationships as trusted members of their communities.”
Ms. Stockbridge attended St. Olaf College where she earned her bachelor’s degree in music and education. She has her Master of Science in Educational Leadership from the University of Oregon. She also has a Continuing Administrative Licensure Program for Portland State University. Ms. Stockbridge has been working in international education since 2012. She is currently the Elementary School Principal at the American School of Lima, Peru.
Ms. Rolle attended California State University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in liberal studies. She has her Master of Art in Education with an emphasis in Special Education. She also has a Clear Administrative Services Credential from National University. Ms. Rolle has been working in international education since 2011. She is currently the Elementary School Principal at John F. Kennedy School, Berlin.
Ms. Rolle and Ms. Stockbridge traveled to the United States for activities to honor and bring well-deserved recognition to the elementary and middle-level educators chosen by the states, the District of Columbia, private schools and the Office of Overseas Schools.
Criteria for selection of the principals require that the honorees are active principals of schools where programs are designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students and where there are firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations.
The U.S. Department of State Office of Overseas Schools supports 193 overseas schools around the world. The Office of Overseas Schools maintains close ties with the metropolitan Washington, D.C.-based National Association of Elementary School Principals and its 20,000 members worldwide.
