Brickey-McCloud Elementary School has been named a 2026 National Gold Star School® by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP)–and is the only school in Tennessee to receive the recognition in the award’s inaugural year.
“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible work of our teachers, staff, students, and families,” said Brickey-McCloud Principal Susan Hutton. “We are proud to create a learning environment where every child is supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed.”
“The district is proud of the work being done at Brickey-McCloud Elementary,” said Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk. “Recognition like this doesn’t happen by accident; it is earned through a genuine commitment to doing what’s best for students every day.”
The National Gold Star program highlights schools across the country that serve as models of excellence and continuous improvement. Schools are recognized for accomplishments aligned to NAESP’s Three Pillars of the Principalship:
- Established Culture: shared values, family engagement, and well-being.
- Empowered People: Collaborative teaching, distributed leadership, and holistic support.
- Optimal Systems: Effective use of talent and resources, district support, and strategic focus.
“National Gold Star Schools represent what is possible when strong leadership, dedicated educators, engaged families, and supportive communities work together,” said NAESP Executive Director L. Earl Franks, Ed.D, CAE. “These schools are models of excellence and inspiration for school leaders and schools nationwide.”
Principal Hutton will be recognized at the National School Leaders Conference in July at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort (Orlando alongside principals representing 56 other elementary and middle-level schools.
