Murray Hill MS Assistant Principal Named National AP of the Year for Middle Level

January 21st, 2026

Murray Hill Middle School (MHMS) Assistant Principal (AP) Dr. Rhoda Nuñez-Donnelly recently was named National Assistant Principal of the Year for Middle Level by the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP). Nuñez-Donnelly—who previously served as AP at Harper’s Choice Middle School (HCMS) and as a resource teacher in HCPSS’ Office of World Language—was selected for her outstanding leadership, strong record of service to the school and community, and other related qualifications.

In his recommendation letter to MAESP, HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes highlighted Nuñez-Donnelly’s contributions to the field of education within HCPSS and beyond. He credited her for catalyzing “significant positive changes to the school culture and to our students’ academic and social development,” adding that she is “a champion for all students, but especially for those who are not yet experiencing success.”

In her recommendation letter, HCPSS Director of Middle Schools Laurie Namey described Nuñez-Donnelly as “an extraordinary educational leader whose impact as an assistant principal has been both transformative and enduring.”

“[Dr. Nuñez-Donnelly] leads with clarity and high expectations, while remaining deeply attuned to the lived experiences of students and adults. Her leadership is grounded in equity, sustained by relationships, and reflected in improved outcomes for students,” Namey added.

“The MAESP awards committee felt that Dr. Nuñez-Donnelly’s nomination strongly demonstrated her commitment to the students, staff, and community at Murray Hill Middle School. It is obvious that Dr. Nuñez-Donnelly not only cares about her school, but that she also consistently strives to connect with her colleagues across Howard County and the state of Maryland. She is a role model for her peers and a shining example of the best that Maryland has to offer,” said Dr. Christopher Wooleyhand, MAESP’s executive director.

Nuñez-Donnelly was nominated for the MAESP award by Burleigh Manor Middle School Principal Dr. Alexia Couch and HCMS Principal Tiffanie Nunley, both of whom worked with Nuñez-Donnelly in her role as HCMS AP.

Nuñez-Donnelly was recognized at a surprise celebration at MHMS on Jan. 14, where Wooleyhand, Namey, and HCPSS’ Executive Director of Secondary Schools Diane Morris presented her with an award. Murray Hill students and staff were also present to mark the occasion and offer their congratulations.

Public and private school elementary and middle-level assistant principals are eligible to apply for the annual National Assistant Principal of the Year award. A panel of MAESP members reviews and selects Maryland’s winner.

MAESP is a professional association of principals, assistant principals, aspiring leaders and central office personnel who support school leaders in grades pre-K to 8. It is a state affiliate of the National Association of Elementary School Principals, or NAESP, which provides advocacy and support for elementary and middle-level principals and other education leaders.