Lake George Leader Named NYS Elementary Principal of the Year

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James Conway

ALBANY, NY (03/27/2026) (readMedia)-- James Conway, principal of Lake George Elementary School, has been selected as the 2026 New York State Elementary School Principal of the Year. This award is given annually by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS) and the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) to an elementary school principal who is clearly committed to excellence, has programs designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students, and has firm ties to parents and the community.

Conway says his leadership is grounded in a clear and shared vision, noting, the John Schaar quote, "The future is not a place to which we are going, it is a place we are creating." He emphasizes that this vision is developed collaboratively through the school's Educational Cabinet, and an outstanding staff that works toward the same objectives" while maintaining a strong focus on student achievement and well-being. He adds that his role is to both inspire direction and "ensure the day-to-day structures and systems are in place to support that vision."

Under Conway's leadership, Lake George Elementary School has become one of the highest-performing schools in the Capital District while maintaining a strong whole-child approach. The school has been recognized as a New York State Recognition School, a Leader in Me Lighthouse School since 2019, and a U.S. News Best School. Conway attributes this success to "high expectations for all students" and a commitment to inclusive practices, noting that "no student falls through the cracks at LGES."

Central to this success is a comprehensive, multi-tiered system of support that addresses both academic and social-emotional needs. Conway explains, "We screen all Pre-K -6 students academically and socially-emotional three times a year," and use that data to guide instruction, interventions, and enrichment opportunities. Weekly collaboration among school support staff ensures that "students receive the resources they need to thrive," reinforcing the school's belief in being a Professional Learning community dedicated to developing the whole child.

Conway and his team have also prioritized student engagement beyond the classroom, achieving nearly 100 percent participation in co-curricular activities. "School needs to be a place that students view as fun and where they can find what they're passionate about," he says, emphasizing that students are regularly surveyed and empowered to shape offerings based on their interests. This approach has led to innovative, student-driven opportunities and a culture where "all students know that they have a voice in their school."

A hallmark of Conway's leadership is the implementation of the Leader in Me framework, rooted in Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. "It's not a some of the time thing – it's what we do and how we operate," Conway explains. "We believe that everyone can be a leader and everyone has genius." This philosophy is embedded throughout the school, with students setting goals, leading conferences, and taking on leadership roles that build confidence, responsibility, and ownership of their learning.

Superintendent John Luthringer says Conway's leadership has had a lasting impact on the district. "Mr. Conway has demonstrated outstanding leadership, vision, dedication, and commitment to students, staff, parents, and colleagues," he says. He adds that Conway has "spearheaded numerous initiatives focused on student growth, student voice, and empowerment," and that his work has helped establish Lake George Elementary as "a Lighthouse School, placing it among the top schools worldwide using this leadership framework."

Ashley Gershen, Pre-K -6 curriculum coordinator, highlights Conway's ability to build meaningful relationships. "Mr. Conway has consistently displayed exceptional leadership qualities that continually contribute to the positive enhancement of our school environment," she says. "Through genuine care, approachability, and active engagement, he has created an environment where students feel supported, valued, and encouraged to thrive." She adds that his leadership has led to "tangible improvements in academic performance and the overall school culture."

Conway's collaborative approach extends beyond the school to the broader community. He notes, "I firmly believe community involvement is fundamental to student achievement," pointing to strong partnerships with families and local organizations, as well as high participation rates in school events and conferences.

Conway received his B.S from Springfield College, his M.S.Ed. from SUNY Plattsburgh, and his Certificate of Advanced Study from Castleton University.

Conway 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 retirees. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of 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).

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