PROUDLY PRESENTING
THE 2026 NASS
SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR
Thomas Scarice, Superintendent
Westport Public Schools, Westport, CT
Thomas Scarice brings instructional depth, systems thinking, and forward-looking leadership to a high-performing, deeply engaged community. He has guided complex strategic, facilities, and organizational initiatives while building effective leadership teams and sustaining strong teaching and learning. His current vision for an AI-powered and human-centered district exemplifies his broader approach: embrace innovation with rigor, protect the human core of education, and prepare students for a complex future.
AND FINALIST
Alice Barfield, Superintendent
Glades County School District, Moore Haven, FL
Dr. Alice Beth Barfield has transformed outcomes and expanded possibility in Glades County through sustained, student-centered leadership. In five years, the district rose from Florida's lowest designation to an A rating, graduation reached 90 percent, career and technical offerings grew, teacher compensation improved, and students gained access to an associate-degree pathway. Her record reflects the persistence, adaptability, and belief in community that define an exemplary superintendent.
ANNOUNCING THE 2026 NASS
EXCELLENCE AWARD CATEGORY WINNERS
​Communication & Engagement
Being the Chief Communicator and Involving the Community
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Finesse & Agility
Understanding and Managing Responses to Differing Needs, Expectations and Viewpoints
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Innovative Initiative
Pioneering Strategies Focused on Success for All
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Safety & Security
Safeguarding Students and Staff​
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​Technology & AI
Using Today’s Tools to Drive Effective District Management and Maximize Student Success
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Power Leadership <2500
Demonstrating Overall Leadership Excellence in a District of More Than 2,500 Students
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Power Leadership >2500
Demonstrating Overall Leadership Excellence in a District of Less Than 2,500 Students
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Robin Cochran, Springfield, KY
Thomas Scarice, Westport, CT
Alice Barfield, Moore Haven, FL
Alice Barfield, Moore Haven, FL
Jonathan Cooper, Mason, OH
Michael Volpe, Hillsborough, NJ
Michael Dadey, Johnstown, PA
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NASS NOW OPEN TO ASPIRING SUPERINTENDENTS
NASS was originally launched in 2009 to serve the position's unique needs and challenges by leveraging its most powerful and reliable source of support, networking with other superintendents. Until now, membership was limited to sitting and retired school district superintendents, but that changed as of February 16, 2024.
While NASS remains wholly committed to exclusively serving school district superintendents, membership is now open to educators aspiring to become superintendents.
Today more than ever, the demands of the superintendency and the increasing mobility of sitting superintendents underscores the need for superintendent candidates fully prepared for the position.
We encourage prospective superintendent candidates to join us today! The many resources include invaluable tips for that first employment contract that should not be missed!
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