This award, co-presented by AASA, Corebridge Financial, and Sourcewell, recognizes exceptional superintendents for their outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing public education in their communities.
The finalists for the 2025 award are:
- Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat, Peoria Public School District 150, Ill.
- Walter B. Gonsoulin, Jr., Jefferson County Schools, Ala.
- Debbie Jones, Bentonville School District, Ark.
- David K. Moore, School District of Indian River County, Fla.
Each of the finalists were nominated by their state association and honored with the title of State Superintendent of the Year. The nominees were then measured against the following criteria:
- Leadership for Learning: Creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students in his or her school system.
- Communication: Strength in both personal and organizational communication.
- Professionalism: Constant improvement of administrative knowledge and skills, while providing professional development opportunities and motivation to others on the education team.
- Community Involvement: Active participation in local community activities and an understanding of regional, national, and international issues
“Leadership in education is essential to shaping the future, and these finalists exemplify the best of what is possible,” said Terri Fiedler, president of retirement services at Corebridge Financial. “We are proud to partner with AASA in honoring these inspiring superintendents and their commitment to making a difference for students, educators, and families.”
“At Sourcewell, we recognize the critical role superintendents play in driving meaningful change in their communities,” said Chad Coauette, executive director and CEO of Sourcewell. “We are honored to partner with AASA in celebrating these finalists, whose tireless work ensures every student has access to a high-quality education.”
The four finalists will have an opportunity to meet the national education community during a press conference on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.
The 2025 National Superintendent of the Year® will be announced live during AASA’s National Conference on Education, March 6-8 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
A $10,000 college scholarship will be presented in the name of the 2025 National Superintendent of the Year® to a student in the high school from which the superintendent graduated or the school now serving the same area.
Access a complete list of the 2025 State Superintendents of the Year, awarded independently by each state association, here.
