Avon Middle School Principal Honored with SAANYS Outstanding Educator Award

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Jennifer Miller, Principal of Avon Middle School

ALBANY, NY (04/02/2026) (readMedia)-- Jennifer Miller, principal of Avon Middle School in the Avon Central School District, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 SAANYS Outstanding Educator Award. This award is given annually to a SAANYS member who has made outstanding contributions to New York State schools through public education, professional organizations, or research and/or writing in the field of education.

Miller's career in education is defined by her unwavering commitment to building systems that support the whole child while fostering a culture of belonging, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As the founding principal of Avon Middle School, one of her most significant accomplishments was leading the creation of the school from the ground up. She worked collaboratively with staff and the broader school community to "design a middle school grounded in developmentally responsive practices that address the academic, social, and emotional needs of adolescents," while unifying two previously separate school communities into a cohesive and student-centered environment.

Miller emphasizes that this work required "facilitating conversations around beliefs, expectations, and instructional practices," resulting in a shared vision focused on consistency, collaboration, and student success. Through these efforts, she established "a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where all students feel known and valued," supported by strong instructional systems and a dedicated team of educators committed to collective responsibility.

Central to Miller's leadership is her ability to build and sustain aligned systems across grade levels. She has worked closely with district leaders to strengthen instructional coherence, implement curriculum improvements, and ensure continuity from elementary through high school. This work includes supporting the adoption of a new literacy program and leading professional learning efforts grounded in research-based practices, ensuring that "professional learning, classroom instruction, and student outcomes" remain tightly connected.

Another hallmark of Miller's leadership is her transformation of school culture through a layered approach to student support. Beginning with Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), she expanded to restorative practices and, more recently, the RULER framework for social-emotional learning. Miller notes that this work "strengthened students' emotional intelligence while reinforcing positive behavior and healthy relationships," creating an environment where students feel connected, supported, and ready to learn.

Miller has also implemented innovative best practices that ensure no student falls through the cracks. Through a monthly interdisciplinary student support team, she leads a data-informed approach to addressing academic, behavioral, attendance, and social-emotional needs. This process, she says, "strengthens our ability to respond proactively...while promoting consistent and equitable access to interventions," ensuring coordinated support for every student.

Rodney George, president of the Avon Board of Education, emphasized Miller's student-centered approach, noting that "every decision she makes begins with the question, 'What's best for students?'" He added that her leadership is marked by "empathy, clarity, and an ability to bring people together," creating a culture where staff, students, and families feel supported and valued.

Christina Ecklund, director of academic programs, highlighted Miller's impact on both school culture and innovation, stating that she "has her finger on the pulse of the building and district" and is "a role model for students." Ecklund added that Miller's creative initiatives, including "Avon Up" days, have "significantly improved our overall services and outcomes" for middle school students.

Miller has served as principal of Avon Middle School for more than 25 years. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Rochester, a master's degree in reading instruction from Nazareth College, and a master's degree in administration and supervision from Canisius College.

Miller and fellow 2026 award winners will be recognized at SAANYS' annual awards celebration, taking place on May 1 at the Desmond Hotel – Crowne Plaza in Albany.

SAANYS represents nearly 22,000 school administrators, supervisors, and retired educational leaders. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to its members in their efforts to enhance education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).