WINNSBORO – Fairfield Central High School Principal Dr. Tracie Swilley has been named the 2025 National Principal of the Year. The announcement was made Friday night at the National Principal of the Year Gala in Washington, D.C.
“We are beyond thrilled to celebrate Dr. Tracie Swilley on being named the National Secondary Principal of the Year!” Fairfield County School District Superintendent Dr. Tony Hemingway said shortly after Swilley received the honor.
“This is an incredible honor, and it is a true testament to her tireless dedication, visionary leadership, and commitment to the students of Fairfield County School District. Dr. Swilley has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure positive academic and social outcomes, creating an environment where every student can thrive. Her impact on our district is immeasurable, and we are so fortunate to have her as an instructional leader, mentor, and advocate for excellence,” Hemingway said.
It is the latest honor Swilley has received during her 12 years as principal of Fairfield Central High School. On Tuesday, before boarding a plane for Washington on Wednesday, Swilley learned that Fairfield Central High School received a ‘Good’ rating on the SC State School Report Card. It was the first time in the school’s history that the school had achieved an overall rating of ‘Good.’
“It was a hill to climb,” Swilley told The Voice as she was waiting in the airport on Wednesday. “And we’re still climbing.”
“We’re really proud of the work that Dr. Swilley has done,” Hemingway said in regard to the ‘Good’ rating. “I’ve had a lot of conversations with her, listening to the things she’s done with her instructional leadership, working with her staff, all of them helping to move the school forward. That hard work has paid off, and we are super proud of her.”
“This award is not just a reflection of my work, but a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and shared purpose.” Dr. Swilley said during her acceptance speech. “I am proud of the progress we have made, and it’s only just begun.
“This honor belongs to us all,” she continued. “To the leaders everywhere, remember this, leadership is not about a title, but about service. It’s about putting students at the center of everything we do, and never losing sight of the power that education has to change lives. I promise to hear you and use this platform to speak with and speak for you, and public education. Thank you for this incredible recognition.”
The National Principal of the Year program recognizes outstanding middle level and high school principals. The program annually honors secondary school principals who have succeeded in providing high-quality learning opportunities for students as well as demonstrating exemplary contributions to the profession.
Each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Department of State Office of Overseas Schools, and the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity select one middle level or high school principal to represent their state.
From these state winners, three finalists are named as contenders for the National Principal of the Year award. The NASSP National Principal of the Year is selected from among the three finalists.
