Northeast Middle School Assistant Principal Andrea Cannady has been selected as the 2026 Maryland Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year by the Maryland Association of Secondary School Principals, the organization announced January 6, 2026.
The award, presented in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, recognizes Cannady’s leadership in promoting both social-emotional and academic growth for students. It makes her eligible for the National Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year Award, with the national recipient to be named later in 2026.
Cannady received the surprise announcement during a math lesson with students at Northeast Middle School in Pasadena. MASSP Executive Director Chris Truffer, Anne Arundel County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Bedell, and other school system leaders entered the classroom unannounced to present the honor.
Cannady stated, “Being named Maryland Assistant Principal of the Year is an incredible honor, and it speaks to the strength of our Northeast Middle community. Every day, I am committed to building a culture where students feel valued, staff feel supported, and families feel connected.”
The annual state award honors instructional leaders who advance teaching and learning, elevate student achievement, and cultivate school environments that support success for students, staff, and families.
A parent’s letter included in Cannady’s nomination packet described her impact: “I’ve seen firsthand how Mrs. Cannady has helped shape a school culture where every child feels safe, supported, and valued. She leads with kindness, fairness, and genuine care for students and families. Her approachable nature and strong communication build trust and connection throughout the school community. Whether addressing challenges or celebrating successes, she always keeps students’ well-being at the center. Because of her leadership, the school feels like a place where children truly belong and can thrive every day.”
Cannady serves on Northeast Middle School’s Instructional Leadership, Climate, and Equity Committees. She established Recognition Rallies to acknowledge student academic and behavioral achievements, created student leadership councils and ambassador programs, and involved students in various committees and advisory groups to strengthen school culture.
A former student contributed to Cannady’s application packet, writing: “Ms. Cannady always took her job very seriously. In the morning, she was always positive and welcoming. When there was conflict, she was very quick to figure out what was going on and respond accordingly. I never felt ignored or dismissed by any concerns. I felt very seen by Ms. Cannady and she always made it a point to ask me questions about my life, however small or insignificant. She always remembered things I told her about my life that you would think are unimportant, but she took the time to care about it.”