MADISON, WI — The Association of Wisconsin School Administrators has recognized Amanda Jamerson as its 2026 Wisconsin High School Associate Principal of the Year.
As associate principal at Shorewood High School, Jamerson has served as a strong leader in cultivating a restorative, equitable, and innovative school culture that prioritizes the wellbeing and success of every student and staff member. She has also led initiatives that have transformed the school climate, improved student outcomes, and strengthened collaborative leadership among staff.
“Amanda Jamerson exemplifies the leadership, compassion, and innovation that define Wisconsin’s most outstanding assistant principals,” said AWSA Executive Director Jim Lynch. “She empowers students and staff at Shorewood High School to thrive, and we are honored to recognize her as our 2026 High School Associate Principal of the Year.”
During her tenure as associate principal, Jamerson helped design and implement a Restorative Actions Framework that reduced office discipline referrals by 69 percent over three years, while deepening student understanding of empathy and accountability. She also co-launched a comprehensive cell phone policy that promotes digital balance and has resulted in improved classroom focus and fewer peer conflicts.
As the school’s Building Equity Lead, Jamerson also founded the school’s Equity Leadership Team, delivering professional learning and coaching that has helped integrate culturally responsive practices across classrooms. She co-led the African American Youth Initiative, a regional program that supports mentorship, leadership development, and college readiness for African American students throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
“Ms. Jamerson’s impact on our school has been extraordinary,” said SHS Principal Tim Kenney. “Her leadership has shaped a culture where safety, belonging, and achievement go hand in hand. She has empowered both staff and students to lead with empathy and excellence. I am thrilled to see her recognized at the state level in this way.”
Jamerson holds an MBA in educational leadership from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and a master’s degree in teacher leadership from Silver Lake College. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Lane College.
Jamerson is also the founder of AJAM Advocacy & Educational Consulting, which supports families and educators in building equitable systems for learning.
“Amanda Jamerson is an exceptional leader,” said Shorewood School District Superintendent Dr. Laurie Burgos. “She elevates student achievement and wellbeing by cultivating relationships built on trust, dignity, and care. As a thoughtful collaborator, Amanda empowers others, strengthens teams, and nurtures a culture in which every student and staff member feels valued. This recognition reflects Amanda’s commitment and the positive impact she makes every single day in the Shorewood School District.”
The Wisconsin Associate Principal of the Year program recognizes assistant and associate principals whose leadership has resulted in improved student learning, instructional collaboration, and a safe and positive school environment. Nominations are accepted from teachers, parents, principals, and others across Wisconsin. Selection criteria include a commitment to personal excellence, collaborative leadership, personalization, curriculum, instruction and assessment, and serving as an established and respected community member.
A committee representing teachers, superintendents, board members, parents, and the Department of Public Instruction reviews the applications and selects an AP of the year at the middle school and high school levels. Considerable support comes from the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation.
Jamerson will be formally recognized at the Wisconsin Associate Principal Convention in January. She will also receive $1,000 for use on a project of her choice at Shorewood High School. Additionally, Jamerson will represent the state of Wisconsin at the National Assistant Principal of the Year Celebration in Washington, D.C., in spring 2026.
