Waukesha Times

The Association of Wisconsin School Administrators (AWSA) has honored Elizabeth "Liz" Nelson as the 2024 Wisconsin Middle School Associate Principal of the Year. Nelson, who serves as Associate Principal at Elmbrook's Pilgrim Park Middle School, oversees more than 900 students and 125 teachers and staff. Her tenure of five years has seen significant achievements such as leading the Behavior Management Team, establishing professional development opportunities for staff, and facilitating numerous extracurricular activities.

Principal Kelly Szesterniak praised Nelson's leadership: “Liz exemplifies outstanding leadership and dedication in her role as Associate Principal at Pilgrim Park Middle School. Her commitment to building a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment has made a significant impact on both students and staff. This award is a testament to her commitment, hard work, integrity, and dedication to excellence.”

Nelson's approach is guided by continuous improvement. She engages in initiatives like Project Lead the Way and Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), conducts data-driven meetings for student support, and implements programs like Check and Connect for at-risk students.

Dr. Mark Hansen, Superintendent of the School District of Elmbrook, expressed gratitude: “On behalf of Pilgrim Park Middle School and our entire school district, I would like to express our appreciation to AWSA for recognizing Liz Nelson with this honor.”

Jim Lynch, executive director of AWSA stated: “We are honored to recognize Elizabeth Nelson as the Wisconsin Middle School Associate Principal of the Year. Her commitment to supporting high standards and fostering a positive and accountable environment embodies leadership excellence. This is a well-deserved honor for a hard-working and widely respected middle school leader.”

Nelson holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Cardinal Stritch University. The award recognizes associate principals whose leadership enhances student learning, instructional collaboration, and creates a positive school environment.

The selection process involves nominations from various stakeholders across Wisconsin with criteria focusing on personal excellence, collaborative leadership, curriculum development, among others. A committee comprising educators reviews applications with support from the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation.

Nelson will be formally recognized at an upcoming convention in January where she will receive $1,000 for a project at her school. She will also represent Wisconsin at the National Assistant Principal of the Year Celebration in Washington D.C., in spring 2025.