WORTON — When it comes to high school principals in Maryland, Kent County High School’s Kris Hemstetter is officially at the top of the list.
Hemstetter was greeted with the surprise announcement Friday morning, March 21 that she was named Principal of the Year by the Maryland Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP), in collaboration with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).
Hemstetter had been called to the KCHS auditorium for what she thought was a meeting, only to find herself being cheered on by all students, staff, administrators and her family.
Chris Truffer, executive director of MASSP, was on hand to present the award to Hemstetter, noting that out of 255 high schools in Maryland, she was the Principal of the Year for the state.
“I hear so many great things about what’s happening in Kent County High School,” Truffer told the crowd.
Hemstetter is an active member of MASSP and has been named president-elect of the organization.
She is now in the running for the NASSP National Middle Level and High School Principal of the Year awards.
In accepting the state award March 21, Hemstetter told the high school’s students and staff that the recognition was all about them. She said the school community may be small compared to others in Maryland, but it is mighty.
“This is about you and what Kent County High School rises and does every day,” she told the crowd. “This is our award.”
Superintendent Mary McComas said Kent County Public Schools is proud and grateful for the difference Hemstetter makes for the community.
“She is an instructional leader who has a clear vision of rigorous and responsive instruction nestled in a culture of caring and commitment,” McComas said. “And her vision supports students and faculty in reaching their full potential.”
Hemstetter is described by a Kent County High School teacher as a leader who values the voices and perspectives of all students and sees them as potential leaders.
“She hasn’t lost touch with her ‘classroom teacher self’ and encourages curiosity and engaging students with innovative and creative lessons and activities” that challenge students to excel, the teacher said.
A student commented that Hemstetter makes it a point to ask questions to students and always has an open-door policy.
“There is an emphasis on career and college readiness and preparing students for life after high school,” the student said.
A parent spoke to Hemstetter’s ability to listen attentively to concerns, offering practical solutions for students and staff.
“Her leadership has fostered a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere that allows all students to feel supported and valued,” the parent said.
An administrative colleague described Hemstetter as being “very vocal and instrumental in cultivating a more engaging environment that is intentional in creating pathways for aspiring leaders in our district.”
The National Principal of the Year program annually recognizes outstanding middle and high school level principals who are leaders in engaging in actions that positively impact all students and their schools.
Hemstetter will join her fellow state nominees in Seattle, Washington on July 9 when the NASSP announces the association’s National Middle Level and High School Principals of the Year during its national conference.
Trish McGee, owner and publisher of The Evening Enterprise, is president of the Kent County Board of Education. She did not contribute to this report.
