HCPSS Leader Named National Assistant Principal Of The Year

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Murray Hill Middle School Assistant Principal Dr. Rhoda Nuñez-Donnelly recently was named National Assistant Principal of the Year for Middle Level by the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals.

Nuñez-Donnelly previously served as assistant principal at Harper’s Choice Middle School and as a resource teacher in HCPSS’ Office of World Language. She was selected for her "outstanding leadership, strong record of service to the school and community," and other related qualifications.

In a recommendation letter sent to MAESP, HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes highlighted Nuñez-Donnelly’s contributions to the field of education within HCPSS and beyond. He credited her for catalyzing “significant positive changes to the school culture and to our students’ academic and social development,” adding that she is “a champion for all students, but especially for those who are not yet experiencing success.”

In her recommendation letter, HCPSS Director of Middle Schools Laurie Namey described Nuñez-Donnelly as “an extraordinary educational leader whose impact as an assistant principal has been both transformative and enduring.”

“[Dr. Nuñez-Donnelly] leads with clarity and high expectations, while remaining deeply attuned to the lived experiences of students and adults. Her leadership is grounded in equity, sustained by relationships, and reflected in improved outcomes for students,” Namey added.

Christopher Wooleyhand, MAESP’s executive director, said the award committee felt that Nuñez-Donnelly’s nomination "strongly demonstrated her commitment to the students, staff and community at Murray Hill Middle School."

"It is obvious that Dr. Nuñez-Donnelly not only cares about her school, but that she also consistently strives to connect with her colleagues across Howard County and the state of Maryland. She is a role model for her peers and a shining example of the best that Maryland has to offer,” Wooleyhand said.

Nuñez-Donnelly was nominated for the MAESP award by Burleigh Manor Middle School Principal Dr. Alexia Couch and HCMS Principal Tiffanie Nunley, both of whom worked with Nuñez-Donnelly in her role as HCMS AP.

Nuñez-Donnelly was recognized at a surprise celebration at MHMS last month where Wooleyhand, Namey and HCPSS’ Executive Director of Secondary Schools Diane Morris presented her with an award. Murray Hill students and staff also were present.