Today, in partnership with the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation, we will gather at the Philadelphia Film Society to present the below seven outstanding individuals with the 2026 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals:
2026 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals
LeAndrea Baltimore-Hagan
John M. Patterson School
Sakia Beard Brinkley
Richard R. Wright School
Dr. Michelle Burns
Randolph Technical High School
Vance McNear
Edwin Forrest School
Dr. Darryl Johnson Jr.
Carver Engineering and Science
Dana Singletary
Feltonville Intermediate School
Dr. Lauren Overton
Sadie T.M. Alexander UPenn Partnership School
Since 2011, Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation of Philadelphia has recognized and rewarded school principals who have made significant leadership and humanitarian contributions to their school community. Since we know that effective leaders are second only to highly-qualified, well-supported, stable teachers over time when it comes to accelerating student achievement, I am honored to be able to celebrate these distinguished principals, who have shown a deep commitment to their staff, students and families and are working hard to Accelerate Philly. I am excited to witness the impact that these principals will continue to have, and look forward to seeing what they will do with their monetary rewards.
Please join me in congratulating these seven, if you haven’t already.
In partnership,
Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D.
Superintendent
The School District of Philadelphia