Sappington Elementary School principal Ta’Keshia Parker was named a 2026 National Distinguished Principal — one of only 39 elementary and middle school principals chosen for the honor in the country.
“This award belongs to our entire school community. An honor like this is never possible without the support of all our stakeholders,” Parker said. “Behind this recognition is a culture built on deep commitment, intentionality and shared purpose. It recognizes the heart and energy our students and staff bring into our building each day. Championing their work is the privilege of this role.”
The award is given out by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) each year to “outstanding” pre-K through eighth grade principals across the nation. Honorees who “exemplify excellence in educational leadership” are chosen through a rigorous process led by NAESP state affiliates and selection committees.
Parker joined the other honorees in Washington, D.C., from Oct. 15-16 for an awards banquet to celebrate the accomplishment. The event was held at the Willard InterContinental hotel.
“Dr. Parker’s leadership shines brightest in the details: walk the halls with her, and you immediately see the deep, individual connections she builds with every student she passes,” Lindbergh Schools’ Chief Academic Officer Tara Sparks said. “This same personal approach supports teachers, as she listens to what they need and helps them achieve their goals.”
Parker’s career in education began in 2006 as a classroom teacher at Keysor Elementary School in Kirkwood. She spent nine years as a third- and fifth-grade teacher before joining the administration at Sappington as an assistant principal in 2015. She took up the mantle of head principal in 2017.
“(Parker) has created a school culture where high expectations are the norm and every student is valued and supported,” Craig Hamby, Lindbergh’s Director of Professional Learning and Elementary Education, said. “This recognition is a tremendous honor for Dr. Parker, Sappington Elementary and the entire Lindbergh Schools community. We are fortunate to have her as part of our leadership team.”
NAESP says that its program aims to highlight what principals do to advance student achievement, strengthen school culture, support educator effectiveness and build positive relationships with families and communities.
