Tony Cattani is in the running for an award that recognizes exceptional educational leadership by principals across the country.
The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) has announced that six school leaders – including one from the Lenape Regional High School District – are finalists for the 2025–’26 Middle Level National Principal of the Year and High School National Principal of the Year awards.
Tony Cattani, Lenape High School’s principal for 18 years, is one of only three high-school finalists in the country for the principal award, which recognizes the best in educational leadership, according to the NASSP. That leadership includes combating chronic absenteeism, implementing no-cell phone policies and retaining teachers post-COVID.
“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized alongside such impactful school leaders from across the country,” Cattani noted. “This recognition is a reflection of the entire Lenape community: our dedicated staff, committed students and supportive families.
“I believe deeply in the power of collaboration, and I’m proud of how we’ve built a school culture centered on putting students first.”
“These exceptional finalists’ stories provide a practical blueprint that any school can adapt to improve student engagement, boost academic achievement and build stronger school communities,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe of the award contenders.
“At NASSP, we’re excited to support these leaders as they help re-imagine our education system to meet the diverse needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s challenges.”
One middle-level and one high-school winner will be announced on July 9 in Seattle.
Research from the Wallace Foundation – a New York-based philanthropy that helps communities foster advances in the arts, education and youth development – underscores the critical importance of exemplary school leaders. Its landmark study, “How Principals Affect Students and Schools,” found that effective leadership is second only to classroom instruction in raising student achievement.
The study also shows that a principal’s impact is greatest in low-achieving, high-poverty and minority schools, where students with effective leaders can gain up to three months of additional learning on average each year.
Cattani has helped shape Lenape High into a welcoming and inclusive environment for both students and staff by emphasizing issues like strong relationships, school spirit and a commitment to growth, according to the NASSP. A firm believer in continuous learning, he encourages educators to learn from one another through peer observations and ongoing conversations known as Collegiality Cafés.
Cattani is also the producer and host of the Proud Principals Podcast, a platform where he spotlights innovative leadership, elevates educator voices and inspires professional growth in schools across the country.
Cattani’s motto of “Lenape Pride” is well-known in the school district, where he has developed signature events like Red Pride Fridays, the Lenape Leadership Academy and Unified Athletics. Cattani and his staff have also worked for 12 years with the Anti-Defamation League; as a result, Lenape has been known as a No Place for Hate School since 2013.
Cattani’s influence also goes beyond school. He frequently participates in New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association conferences, where he shares his experiences, and coordinates the Burlington County Secondary School Principals’ bi-monthly sessions, where school leaders from across the area share best practices.
Cattani has organized professional development for Burlington County and New Jersey school leaders, including the upcoming summer summit at Lenape High School on July 22. He also serves on the executive council of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association.
“We are incredibly proud of Mr. Cattani for this well-deserved national recognition,” school Superintendent Carol L. Birnbohm stated. “Mr. Cattani’s leadership has had a transformative impact not only on Lenape High School, but across our district and beyond. His commitment to students, staff, and the broader educational community is truly exemplary.
“This (award) recognition is a powerful affirmation of his vision, leadership, and heart.”
For more information about the principal awards and this year’s finalists, go to www.nassp.org/poy.
