A regional program that honors outstanding principals is accepting nominations for its annual award. The 2026-27 REB Awards for Distinguished Educational Leadership are a chance to recognize the dedication and hard work of Henrico County Public Schools principals. The awards were established by the REB Foundation and Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond. Nominations must be submitted online by Nov. 5 at 5 p.m.
Students, families, staff and members of the community are invited to nominate a principal who has gone above and beyond to create an exceptional educational environment. The honorees will receive $20,000 to be used for school initiatives as well as an unrestricted $10,000 cash grant. A runner-up will also be chosen and could receive $10,000 for use toward school projects.
Principals from Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover counties and the City of Richmond are eligible, and one nominee from each school division will be honored. Principals may not nominate themselves.
Last year’s HCPS winner was Dr. Jessica Seal, principal of Short Pump Middle School. Seal’s award funds will go toward expanding the Middle School Cornerstone project, a student leadership course she implemented at Short Pump Middle more than three years ago. The grant is helping the course expand to the division’s other middle schools.
Paige Smith, principal of Short Pump Elementary School, was runner-up for the award. Smith received a $10,000 grant to support a studio production center at her school.
The Community Foundation is seeking nominations of candidates who:
Have served as principal of their school for at least three years
Effectively manage and promote excellence in education
Demonstrate leadership and exemplify commitment
Inspire their students and are advocates for their school and faculty
Encourage team spirit
Foster cooperation between the school and the community
Maintain dialogue with students, parents, faculty and staff
For more information on eligibility criteria and the nomination process, and to submit a nomination, visit cfrichmond.org/receive/scholars-educators/educators/leadership.
Nominations must be submitted via the website by Nov. 5 at 5 p.m. Award recipients will be announced in March 2027.