MADISON — The Association of Wisconsin School Administrators has named Samuel Karns as the 2025 Elementary School Principal of the Year.
Karns serves as principal of Todd Elementary School, a 4K-5th grade building in the School District of Beloit. In just three years, he has guided the school from a “fails to meet expectations” rating to “meets expectations” on the State Report Card. His leadership style centers on service and shared accountability, creating a culture where all staff, students, and families are empowered to succeed together.
Additionally, Karns has embedded a continuous improvement cycle into the school’s leadership structure, using 100-day plans and data-informed decision making to identify needs and drive change. His efforts have expanded tiered supports for social-emotional learning, increased student engagement, and raised attendance by 2.7 percent year over year.
“As a principal, Mr. Karns leads with heart, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student,” said Superintendent Dr. Willie E. Garrison II. “His commitment to educational equity, community partnership, and continuous improvement has transformed Todd Elementary into a thriving, student-centered school. Mr. Karns is a model for what strong, servant leadership looks like in action.”
Karns holds a master’s degree in education from Texas A&M University and a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the University of Texas at San Antonio. He has also been an active member of the NAACP, AWSA, HEAR (Health Equity Alliance of Rock County), and the Beloit Back to School CommUNITY Health Fair Planning Committee.
“On behalf of AWSA, we would like to congratulate Samuel Karns on earning the 2025 Wisconsin Elementary Principal of the Year award,” said AWSA Executive Director Jim Lynch. “His vision, collaborative approach, and commitment exemplify the work of elementary school leaders across the state. This is a well-deserved honor for a truly dedicated school leader.”
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.
