Bremerton High School Principal Aaron Leavell has been named Washington state’s 2009 High School Principal of the Year by the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP).

Leavell, currently in his fourth year as principal, believes school culture is “the bedrock for a stronger academic environment.” Driven by this belief, he has partnered with staff to usher in positive change throughout Bremerton High School.

With the support of administrators and parents, he introduced a dress code for staff and students; the school board has since adopted the code district-wide.

Leavell also worked closely with community groups and police departments to tackle the issue of gang activity and its impact on students. Leavell acknowledges the power of the partnerships he has forged over the past four years.

“I am proud to be the leader of such a courageous group of students and educators, ones who have embraced education reform, and are willing to take risks,” he said.

Leavell was selected as the state’s High School Principal of the Year from a group of regional finalists by a panel of high school principals who serve on the association’s high school board.