The Washington Post Announces the 2021 Principal of the Year Award Winner

From The Washington Post.

The Post’s 2021 Principal of the Year is Denise Lancaster, principal of Howard County’s Deep Run Elementary School in Elkridge, Md.

During her tenure at Deep Run, Lancaster ensures that teams work collaboratively around student-centered goals. She consistently uplifts integrity, fairness, and transparency through her clear communication and effective decision making that centers on student well-being. At the onset of virtual learning, Lancaster quickly realized that students needed not only academic support, but social emotional community support to ensure equity in access to learning.

Lancaster has established over 36 official community partnerships to support the needs of the community. These programs include Blessings in a Backpack, Free Bikes for Kids, School Supply donations from local churches, Dreambuilders Desks, and numerous connections with local businesses. Lancaster’s career is a testament to her devotion, tenacity, and ongoing commitment to the community she serves.