The Arkansas Association of Middle Level Administrators has named Chelsea Jennings of Sonora Middle School as the 2026 Principal of the Year.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful for this recognition,” Jennings said. “It reflects the collective work of an extraordinary staff who show up every day for kids with purpose, heart and high expectations.”
The award is sponsored by Lifetouch and was presented to Jennings Dec. 16 by Dr. Megan Duncan, AAEA Executive Director; Dr. Karla Neathery, AAEA Assistant Executive Director; Molly Davis, AAMLA Board President; Dr. Jared Cleveland, Springdale Superintendent; Melissa Fink, Springdale Associate Superintendent; and Tammy Carmichal of Lifetouch.
The recognition is presented annually to an Arkansas middle level principal who’s succeeded in contributing to a positive and motivating environment for others and has been recognized as exhibiting exceptional leadership skills in the school community, according to an Arkansas Association of Educational Administers press release.
Jennings combines a culture of continuous professional learning with student-centered practices, Fink said.
“Ms. Jennings ensures that everyone in the school, teachers and students alike, is engaged, empowered, and equipped to achieve their full potential,” she said. “Her approach builds capacity, encourages collaboration and creates a school-wide culture of excellence."
Jennings has served as the Sonora Middle School principal for five years, focusing her leadership efforts on building a safe and inclusive school culture, advancing equity, empowering others and dramatically improving student outcomes. Under her leadership, the school transformed from a state grade of D to B, achieved value-added growth in the 82nd-percentile statewide and earned recognition as a Model PLC and Arkansas Diamond School.
She’s likewise created multiple leadership teams for students and teachers to be a part of, said Emily Knoedl, Sonora Middle School teacher.
“Everyone has a role. We have teams for RTI (Academic and Behavior), Guiding Coalition, Team Leaders and other committees that keep the school running,” Knoedl said. “Having a shared sense of responsibility ensures everyone is a stakeholder and a positive contributor to our school's mission, vision and values."
Parent Martha Martinez said she’s observed how Jennings creates a safe and supportive environment for middle school students.
“She promotes kindness, inclusion and emotional well-being through programs that teach respect and empathy,” Martinez said. “The school is well-managed, with strong safety procedures and open communication with families. Students feel cared for, both emotionally and physically, because of the principal's positive leadership and focus on community."
Jennings said she’s grateful for the recognition and is especially thankful for Sonora’s teachers, the school’s administration team and district leadership for their trust, support and teamwork.
“When adults work together around a shared vision, students benefit in powerful ways,” she said. “I hope this award helps spotlight the great things happening at Sonora Middle School.”