Ta’Keshia Parker of Sappington Elementary School has been named a 2026 Missouri National Distinguished Principal by the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP). She was selected for her “visionary” leadership and Sappington’s “strong academic progress” under her direction.
Parker found out she had received the regional award in December, and she was presented with the national award at the MAESP Leadership Conference, which took place from Feb. 28 to March 3.
“Standing alongside ten other outstanding Missouri Distinguished Principals at the leadership conference in March was truly humbling,” Parker said. “Every leader in that room represents an incredible commitment to students, and I have long admired their dedication to our profession.”
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.
“This prestigious recognition is a testament to her visionary leadership at Sappington Elementary School, where she has consistently prioritized student wellness and instructional excellence,” Superintendent Tony Lake said. “Her dedication to the whole child and her commitment to professional learning represent the very best of Lindbergh Schools.”
Parker says she is most proud of how the teaching team at Sappington has transformed the school’s data culture, as well as “prioritizing wellness as a foundation for learning” through the use of the Wellness Room. She also says she is proud of the “culture of teacher agency” at Sappington that empowers teachers to lead well.
“To be chosen to represent the entire state of Missouri on the national stage is a profound responsibility and certainly a highlight of my career,” Parker said. “I am incredibly proud to represent the hard work of educators across our state, showcasing how Missouri schools are driving student success through a focus on high expectations, academic growth and a strong sense of community.”
While Parker may be the one who took the stage, she makes a point to highlight the efforts of the entire staff at Sappington. She calls the award a “testament to the work and dedication of the amazing staff.”
“A leader is only as strong as the team they serve. I am fortunate to work alongside educators who pour themselves into the success of our students every single day,” Parker said. “This honor belongs to our entire school community. It is a celebration of our collective commitment to excellence, and I am simply proud to be the one who gets to tell our story.”
Parker will now join the 2026 cohort of National Distinguished Principals from all corners of the U.S. at a conference this upcoming October in Washington D.C.
“I look forward to advocating for our profession, engaging with national education leaders and celebrating the exemplary achievements happening in our schools,” Parker said of the conference.
Multiple state-wide honors have come Parker’s way in the past several months. She was also named the 2026 St. Louis Suburban Distinguished Principal, as well as the 2025 MOSHAPE Administrator of the Year for her work in boosting health and wellness in her students.