A local principal has received a top honor from the state. On Thursday, The Virginia Department of Education announced that Galileo Magnet High School Principal Michelle Ramsey has been named a 2025-26 Principal of Distinction.

To be eligible for the Principal of Distinction, Level II endorsement in Administration and Supervision PreK–12, a building-level administrator must have at least five years of experience as a building-level administrator in a public or accredited nonpublic school and have completed a formal induction program as a principal or assistant principal.

Chosen by the Virginia Principals of Distinction Selection Committee, the selected candidates demonstrated strong leadership in student achievement, instructional practices, and school culture. The candidates participated in a professional training symposium and completed a capstone project over six months.

Selection priority was given to candidates who demonstrated strong leadership in improving student achievement, providing effective instructional leadership and cultivating a school environment that reduces non-academic barriers. Emphasis was placed on evidence of impact on student outcomes.