Called a “model principal” by district leadership, Dr. Jacqueline Duncan has been selected as ACSA’s 2025 Elementary Principal of the Year. Her data-driven strategies and steadfast commitment to equity have transformed her school and inspired a broader educational community.

Duncan began her administrative career as assistant principal at Piedmont Hills High School in San Jose, and later served as administrator of data and teacher support in Las Virgenes USD. For the past five years, as the principal of Bay Laurel Elementary, she has cultivated a thriving school culture rooted in academic excellence, inclusion and whole-child development. Under her leadership, CAASPP math scores rose by 5 percent in 2024, and chronic absenteeism dropped from 12 percent to 4 percent.

Her achievements include the creation of a STEAM lab, enhanced VAPA programming, updated safety measures, and a redesigned media center promoting diversity and innovation. She championed programs like the Academic Specialist intervention initiative and the “Creation Station” for STEAM exploration.

A former English learner, Duncan has led with empathy and purpose. She co-developed the district’s EL Master Plan, reduced disproportionate discipline through restorative practices, established a DEI role in the PTA, and launched culturally responsive initiatives.

Beyond Bay Laurel, Duncan serves as COLVOP Charter President of ACSA Region 13 and was a member of the state Equity Committee. A recognized voice in educator wellness, she mentors future leaders and uplifts colleagues through her work with CAAPLE and national leadership networks.

“Her visionary leadership, compassionate approach, and unwavering dedication set her apart as a model principal,” said Las Virgenes USD Superintendent Dr. Dan Stepenosky. “She embodies the very best of what an elementary principal should be, and her students, staff, and community are profoundly enriched by her presence.”

What’s your favorite book or quote on leadership? My leadership philosophy is deeply influenced by Shawn Achor’s “The Happiness Advantage and Big Potential,” along with Kim Scott’s “Radical Candor.” I believe that cultivating positivity fuels not only individual success but also collective growth when we uplift and amplify others. True leadership is about creating a culture where happiness drives performance and collective achievement. At the same time, leading with radical candor — caring personally while challenging directly — builds the trust and accountability needed for teams to thrive. Leadership, to me, is about helping others reach their highest potential while building deep, authentic connections along the way.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?  I used to feel guilty whenever I needed time off from work, until one day a colleague gently reminded me, “You’re not as important as you think you are.” It was humbling, but the message was powerful: If your leadership is truly effective, the work will outlast you. Leadership isn’t about being indispensable. It’s about building systems, relationships and capacity so strong that the community continues to flourish even if you are not there. True leadership is measured not by how much others need you, but by how well they thrive without you.

What’s your best strategy for work-life balance?  Three things come to mind: Set clear boundaries. Delegate when possible. Learn to say no. That said, balance isn’t always about doing less. It’s about doing what matters most with intention. I design systems that free up my time and energy for people, relationships and creativity — the things that fill my cup. I believe that when we prioritize joy and connection, work and life don’t compete and fuel each other instead.

What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator? Consider sending your staff a “How I Work Best at Work” survey that invites them to share insights such as their professional strengths, preferred communication styles (especially when addressing concerns), and what makes them feel valued and appreciated. Use their responses intentionally: Reference noted strengths when delegating tasks, tailor your approach during difficult conversations, and personalize recognition efforts to ensure your team feels truly seen and supported.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?  I had a mohawk in high school!

What made you want to become a school administrator?  I became an administrator because I believe in the transformational power of a positive school culture. I wanted to help create spaces where students feel celebrated, teachers feel empowered, and families feel they belong — a place where everyone can see their potential reflected back to them every single day.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are?  Although my parents are not U.S. citizens, they ensured I was born here so I could pursue the American Dream. I began my education in the U.S. in fourth grade as an English language learner, often navigating school and life on my own. As an AANHPI American woman in educational leadership, I have encountered challenges in spaces where people who look like me are often underrepresented. Throughout my career, I have also experienced many microaggressions, which have at times made me question whether I truly belonged. These experiences have been my greatest challenges and most powerful sources of growth. I have learned to transform invisibility into advocacy, turn barriers into bridges, and lead with a voice that creates space for others.

What are you most proud of accomplishing? I’m proudest of the cultures I’ve helped shape, where joy is visible, inclusion is intentional, and achievement is collective. As a principal, I take great pride in being everyone’s cheerleader, bringing out the best in my team, and celebrating the little victories that make a big difference in people’s lives. Whether it is encouraging students to believe in themselves, supporting teachers in their growth, or helping parents feel heard, I thrive on lifting others up and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. It’s the small moments that build the foundation for something truly special.

How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position?  ACSA is where I have found mentorship, meaningful connection, and the reassurance that leadership doesn’t have to be lonely. I was especially fortunate to be paired with Dr. Rene Rickard, current ACSA vice president, through ACSA’s mentoring program six years ago. She consistently spoke my name in rooms of opportunity and helped expand my professional network. That experience showed me the power of having someone in your corner, and it inspired me to pay it forward by serving as my region’s Equity Committee Representative, COLVOP Charter President, and an ACSA conference planner and presenter. ACSA is where I’ve come to understand the lasting impact of lifting as we climb.

The theme for this year’s Leadership Summit is “Lead Loudly: Sharing Stories, Building Bridges.” What does Leading Loudly mean to you?  To lead loudly is to lead with your full heart visible. It’s standing bravely in your own story so that others can see the possibility in theirs. It’s using your voice not just to be heard, but to connect, heal and lift. It’s building bridges across differences, doubt and fear. Leading loudly is about amplifying joy, purpose and hope in everything we do so that every student, every educator, and every family knows they matter and belong.