(Salem, Ore.) The Oregon Association of Secondary School Administrators (OASSA) and the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators (COSA) have named Jessica Smith, West Albany High School Assistant Principal in Greater Albany Public  Schools, the 2023 Oregon Assistant Principal of the Year.

Smith, a long-time West Albany High School staff member, began her teaching career at West in 2004.  Always a leader, Smith had a role on the school’s Site Council, was the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) Site Coordinator, served as Social Studies Department Chair, and coached sports. Smith has served as West’s Assistant Principal for the past six years. She is known in the school community as a dedicated instructional leader who demonstrates heart in working with students.

Relationships are at the heart of Smith’s work and leadership. “The most rewarding components of my job are the relationships I have and hope to continue to build with students, staff, and parents,” said Smith. She is visible in the school and community and one that others enjoy interacting with.  

“I truly value an assistant principal who not only knows what is going on in her school but they are a part of it,” said West Principal Susan Orsborn. “As assistant principal, she attends band and choir concerts, athletic events, award nights, and is in the hallways talking with students on a daily basis.”

This award automatically places Smith in the running for National Assistant Principal of the Year awarded by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. “COSA is honored to have Jessica Smith as the 2023 Oregon Assistant Principal of the Year,” said Craig Hawkins, COSA Executive Director. “She is an administrator who listens to her students, their families, and the staff and builds strong relationships in the school community.”

Smith will be recognized at the COSA Annual Conference in Seaside in June and at COSA’s Principals Conference in August. She will also be honored by NASSP as part of National Assistant Principals Week in April.