SAHUARITA, AZ— Dr. Teresa Hill, Principal of Walden Grove High School in Sahuarita Unified School District has been named the Arizona National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Principal of the Year.

As the Arizona NASSP Principal of Year, Dr. Hill is eligible to be selected as one of the finalists in the running for the National Principal of the Year award. Nominations are based upon exemplary performance and outstanding leadership.  Dr.  Hill, a 10-year principal, has headed the leadership team at Walden Grove High School since the school opened in 2011. Under her leadership, the school has earned the AEA A+ School of Excellence award as well as a myriad of student and staff achievements at the State and National level. Dr. Hill has been credited with developing a model program for a holistic approach to education at Walden Grove that extends beyond the walls of the school building and contributes to long-term student success.

“Dr. Teresa Hill is an innovative leader who sets the pace for excellence. Dr. Hill is an instructional leader, who models and coaches effective practice and supports teaching excellence,” said Dr. Manuel Valenzuela, Superintendent of Sahuarita Unified School District. “All of her actions are ultimately centered upon a relentless commitment to do what is best for students. Dr. Hill is a wonderful ambassador for this noble work that we do in public education.”

The NASSP National Principal of the Year program recognizes annually outstanding middle level and high school principals. The program honors secondary school principals who have succeeded in providing high-quality learning opportunities for students as well as demonstrating exemplary contributions to the profession.

“I am honored and humbled to be representing the state of Arizona as the NASSP Principal of the Year,” Dr. Hill stated. “I am blessed to work with such an amazing staff and community, and am thankful to share our efforts to create a positive school climate and culture where all are accepted and valued. This honor is reflective of the learning community at Walden Grove which encourages everyone to aim high and maximize their potential.”

Dr. Hill celebrates with staff during an early morning meeting.

Dr. Hill’s teaching career began as a math and dance teacher at Flowing Wells High School in 1993. She served as assistant principal at Flowing Wells High School prior to being named the principal at Walden Grove High School in the Sahuarita Unified School District. Dr. Hill earned her Bachelor’s degree from New Mexico State University and a Master’s degree in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University. In 2019, she earned her Doctorate of Education in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University.

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