MADISON — The Association of Wisconsin School Administrators (AWSA) has named Dr. Russ Gerke as the 2026 High School Principal of the Year.
Dr. Gerke serves as principal of West De Pere High School in the School District of West De Pere. With more than two decades of leadership at the school, he has built a strong culture of collaboration, high expectations, and continuous improvement that has driven sustained student success.
Under Gerke’s leadership, West De Pere High School has consistently earned an “Exceeds Expectations” rating on the Wisconsin State Report Card and maintains a nearly 100 percent graduation rate. The school has also been recognized by U.S. News & World Report and ranked among the top high schools in Wisconsin.
“Dr. Gerke is an exceptional leader who has dedicated his career to serving students and building a culture of excellence at West De Pere High School,” said West De Pere Superintendent Jason Lau. “His focus on collaboration, innovation, and meeting the needs of all learners has had a lasting impact on our students, staff, and community.”
Gerke has led the development of innovative programs that expand opportunities for students and support diverse learning needs. These include alternative education pathways, such as West Academy, co-taught “Align” courses that support inclusive instruction, and targeted interventions like Math Seminar to strengthen foundational skills. He has also built strong partnerships with local organizations and colleges, creating opportunities for students to earn college credit and explore career pathways through programs like the Trades Career Academy and healthcare certifications.
A strong advocate for shared leadership, Gerke established a Faculty Council that empowers teachers to play a central role in school decision making and continuous improvement. His commitment to professional learning and collaboration has helped foster a culture in which staff feel supported, valued, and focused on improving outcomes for all students.
Gerke has served as principal of West De Pere High School since 2004, after previously serving as associate principal. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Edgewood College and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Marian College.
“On behalf of AWSA, I am proud to congratulate Russ Gerke on being named the 2026 Wisconsin High School Principal of the Year,” said AWSA Executive Director Jim Lynch. “His dedication to students, staff, and community, along with his commitment to continuous improvement, exemplifies outstanding school leadership.”
The announcement was made at West De Pere High School on April 10th.
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.
