Kate McInerney, ACSA’s 2026 Elementary Principal of the Year, has built a leadership legacy grounded in equity, belonging and visible care at Joe Nightingale Elementary School. Since becoming principal in 2017, she has led the district’s largest and most diverse elementary school with a clear focus on removing barriers to student success and creating conditions in which every child can thrive.

Equity is central to McInerney’s work. She has championed targeted initiatives that address obstacles to learning, including a Peer Mediator Program that empowers students to resolve conflicts collaboratively while building empathy, leadership, and accountability. She also helped pioneer the school’s Inclusion Program so students with disabilities are meaningfully integrated into general education with appropriate supports. Guided by the school creed, “Every Student Belongs,” McInerney has created an environment where every student feels seen and supported.

That support extends to her staff, who say her ability to inspire others has created a culture of collaboration and innovation. She revitalized Professional Learning Communities at the school to strengthen Tier 1 instruction and design Tier 2 supports so students receive timely, individualized help. With the Student Study Team, she created a collaborative, solution-focused session where parents and teachers eagerly participate. She has also cultivated strong partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and parents, who regularly volunteer at the school. Her ability to mentor staff, engage the community and build trust with parents has helped create a school where all adults are committed to student success.

Just as important is the care McInerney shows every day. She is known for handling difficult conversations and discipline with fairness, respect, and empathy. Rather than staying behind her desk, she is most often visible in classrooms, on the playground, or alongside staff and families. She also makes PBIS recognition personal, taking time to celebrate students’ good choices with a kind word or conversation so each child feels seen, valued and connected.

McInerney’s commitment to leadership extends well beyond her campus through her long service to ACSA. A member since 2006, she has served Region 13 as director at large and secretary, taken on multiple leadership roles in the North Santa Barbara Charter, participated in Legislative Action Days, and presented at ACSA conferences on topics including mindfulness and staff morale. Her contributions reflect the same dedication to growth, service, and community that define her work as a principal.

“Kate McInerney does not just hold a position; she fulfills a calling,” said Dr. Holly Edds, superintendent of Orcutt Union School District. “Her decades of service, beginning in the mid-’90s, have evolved into a masterclass in resilient leadership. She represents the very best of ACSA’s mission to support school leaders and, by extension, the students of California.”

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given? During my first year as a principal, a colleague shared some memorable advice: I would truly know I had succeeded once I established my very own “I hate Kate club.” This served as a reminder that the essence of the role isn’t seeking approval but rather staying focused on what is best for children as a guiding principle. Furthermore, I have found it invaluable to prioritize face-to-face or at least telephone communication for significant discussions. This approach has been helpful in maintaining professionalism and fostering a mutual understanding that we are all individuals working toward a common goal.

What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator? As a principal, my top life hack is delivering birthday pencils daily. This tradition enables me to connect every student’s face with their name, visit various classrooms, and engage in personal chats with the children. It also serves as an effective strategy for helping hesitant students adjust to the school day by inviting them to be a “birthday pencil helper.”

Another valuable tip is to be on yard duty. Being visible allows you to interact with staff and students, build rapport with the kids, and address potential discipline matters proactively.

Finally, keeping a variety of games, stuffed animals, and fidget toys in your office is helpful. Providing chances for students to earn playtime, use these items to self-regulate, or borrow a stuffed animal for support during transitions can lead to a much smoother day for everyone involved.

What would people be surprised to learn about you? Many would likely be surprised to learn that I have served as the captain of an all-female sailing race team over the past two years. My love for sailing is overflowing into my retirement plans. My husband and I have acquired a larger sailboat with the intention of sailing full-time.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your current position? I believe navigating COVID and the aftereffects of COVID have been my biggest professional challenge. Enough said!

How has ACSA supported you in your career? ACSA has been a huge source of support for me during my career! By participating in ACSA region activities, I have been able to form meaningful relationships and enjoy networking opportunities with my peers. Additionally, the ACSA Academies and various Leadership Summits have offered high-quality professional development that has truly enhanced my skills.

The theme for this year’s Leadership Summit is “You Belong Here: Leadership for Every Student.” What does belonging feel like for you, your staff or your students? Belonging, to me, my staff, and my students, is fundamentally about shared connections and common interests. At our school we strive to create an environment that intentionally provides opportunities for building strong relationships and shared enjoyment. We foster this engagement through various activities designed to build positive energy.