OAESA annually recognizes elementary and middle-level schools and school leaders for their exceptional service to the students and school communities throughout Ohio. The nomination window has ended for the 2025 recognition program. Stay tuned for an announcement of the winners in the spring! Nominees will be notified promptly upon nomination and will be provided a link to complete the award application process. All honorees will be announced in the spring and will be celebrated at our annual professional conference.  We look forward to honoring our winners for all they are doing for Ohio's school children. 

OAESA Principal of the Year 
This award recognizes an elementary and/or middle-level principal as the OAESA Principal of the Year. If this individual also meets current NAESP membership requirements, s/he can additionally be recognized as the National Distinguished Principal (NDP) and will represent Ohio in the National Association of Elementary School Principals’ NDP program in Washington, D.C.

Hall of Fame Schools
OAESA celebrates elementary and/or middle level schools that provide truly outstanding educational opportunities to their students through effective programming and instruction. These schools are characterized by an atmosphere of growth, achievement, pride, and a dedication to excellence on the part of staff and students.

Secretary of the Year
OAESA annually honors one school secretary from across Ohio who epitomizes the highest standards of commitment, dedication and service to their school. The Secretary of the Year will also receive a complimentary registration to OAESA’s Secretaries Conference.

Outstanding Second-in-Command Administrator
The Outstanding Second-in-Command award recognizes the exceptional leadership of auxiliary administrators who partner in the day-to-day operations of PreK–8 schools. The recipient of the Second-in-Command award will also receive complimentary registration to OAESA’s Second-in-Command Institute.

Outstanding Central Office Administrator
Central Office administrators working on behalf of our PreK-8 students add a tremendous benefit to a school community. This award recognizes one of these highly impactful individuals in our state by identifying an Outstanding Central Office Administrator (OCOA).