MADISON — The Association of Wisconsin School Administrators (AWSA) has named Jamie Thomas as the 2026 Middle School Principal of the Year.
Thomas serves as principal of Indian Mound Middle School in the McFarland School District. There, she has focused on building a school culture rooted in belonging, equity, and continuous improvement, ensuring every student feels seen, supported, and challenged to succeed.
Under Thomas’s leadership, Indian Mound has become one of the top-performing middle schools in Dane County. The school has consistently ranked among the top three in the county on the FORWARD exam in multiple subject areas, with students often performing more than 20 percentage points above the state average. She has also led efforts to close achievement gaps through the implementation of equitable multi-level systems of support, targeted instructional practices, and a strong culture of data-informed decision-making.
“Jamie is a visionary and compassionate leader who has transformed Indian Mound Middle School into a place where all students can thrive,” said McFarland School District Superintendent Aaron Tarnutzer. “Her commitment to equity, student achievement, and building meaningful relationships has had a profound impact on both the school community and student outcomes.”
Thomas emphasizes a collaborative leadership approach, empowering staff and students while fostering strong partnerships with families and the community. She has expanded student leadership opportunities, strengthened school-community connections through mentorship and career exploration programs, and created systems that support both academic success and social-emotional growth.
Before becoming principal at Indian Mound Middle School in 2022, Thomas served as principal and associate principal at Badger Ridge Middle School in the Verona Area School District. She began her career in education as a school social worker and has held a variety of leadership roles . She holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and additional licensure in educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, and student services through Viterbo University.
“On behalf of AWSA, I am proud to congratulate Jamie Thomas on being named the 2026 Wisconsin Middle School Principal of the Year,” said AWSA Executive Director Jim Lynch. “She leads with purpose and heart, creating a school environment where students and staff feel valued and empowered. Her work exemplifies school leadership in Wisconsin.”
The announcement was made at a ceremony at Indian Mound Middle School on Wednesday, April 8.
Supported by the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation, the Principal of the Year award recognizes school leaders who have helped drive student learning, foster instructional collaboration, and create safe and positive school environments. Recipients are selected based on their dedication to professional excellence, leadership skills, and service to their communities.
Each year, teachers, parents, staff, and administrators are asked to nominate principals for the award. The recipients are selected by a committee made up of representatives of parents and classroom, school, and district leaders. To learn more about the award, visit https://awsa.memberclicks.net/principal-of-the-year.
