Okaloosa County celebrates Dr. Donna Kelley’s national recognition for outstanding leadership
Okaloosa County, Florida – In a notable achievement for Okaloosa County, Dr. Donna Kelley, the esteemed Principal of Northwood Elementary School, has been distinguished as the 2025 Florida National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) National Distinguished Principal. Since 1984, the award has been given to principals who show outstanding leadership and have a significant influence on their respective schools and communities.
Driven by a lifetime interest, Dr. Kelley’s path in education is one she values.
“From a young age, my passion for education has been a driving force in my life, a fact my sister Valerie fondly reminds me of to this day. I am profoundly grateful to my late parents, Roy and Nancy Kelley, for their unwavering support and for providing me with the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher,” Dr. Kelley said.
Her dedication to establishing a creative and encouraging learning atmosphere has not gone unnoticed. Dr. Kelley has previously been recognized as the Elementary Principal of the Year for Okaloosa County for two consecutive years, 2022-2023 and again in 2024. These honors highlight her ongoing commitment to support student success and educational quality.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers commended Dr. Kelley’s exemplary leadership.
“Dr. Donna Kelley is an exceptional leader who goes above and beyond to support her students, teachers, and school community. Her passion for education and dedication to excellence make her truly deserving of this recognition. We are incredibly proud of her and grateful for the positive impact she continues to make in Okaloosa County,” he said.
Read also: Okaloosa County officials to host ribbon-cutting for revamped Ross Marler Park on March 27
The appreciation goes beyond neighborhood achievements. The next Florida Association of School Administrators (FASA) Discover ’25 Conference will recognize Dr. Kelley. She will also be honored nationally either in Washington, D.C., at a NAESP event or at the UNITED Conference in Seattle in July, therefore honoring her achievements to education at a national level.
The story of Dr. Kelley reminds everyone of how committed people in the field of education can motivate change and contribute significantly to their local communities. It also emphasizes the need of help and appreciation for teachers who go above and beyond to guarantee that their classrooms are settings where students flourish rather than being just places of learning. The community watches with pride and expectation for her ongoing influence on the next generation of leaders as she gets ready to accept her honors.
