Proctor Middle School Principal Named MN’s Principal of The Year

PROCTOR, Minn. — One ‘awesome’ local principal has won the Minnesota Principal of the Year award. Mr. Awsumb at Proctor Middle School didn’t go into the job for winning awards,
but spent some time sharing with us the dedication that led to getting that recognition.

With a flurry of fist bumps for everyone who passes him, It’s no surprise that Mr. Awsumb is well loved. So much so, that he won the Principal of the Year award for Minnesota.

“I’m just honored as all get out to represent principals throughout the state. We have so many talented people here. It’s just phenomenal to be recognized as one of the, one of the good ones. But there’s hundreds who are equally as talented as I mean, it’s a big honor, really, really proud of it, for sure,” shared John Awsumb, Principal at Proctor Middle School.

Last year, a colleague nominated him for the North-East division. But this year, he went all the way. There was an extensive application process, that involved getting a parent, a student, a teacher, and an administrative colleague to fill out forms as well.

“The community support in proctor is just phenomenal. We have amazing parent support. We’ve got really talented kids. We got really talented staff and faculty. So, in many ways, you know, this is a recognition for some of my service, but honestly, it’s the whole district. It’s our award as well, everybody from the bus drivers to the cooks to the custodians,” said Awsumb.

He’ll get some national recognition as well, with a trip to the White House. Back home though, he’s still just everyone’s favorite principal.

“Mr. Awsumb. He’s just such a great, nice guy. He’s always there to help with any problems, and he likes to come and support people after sports. He likes to come to your games and support you, cheer you on. I love it,” said Reese, 7th Grader at Proctor Middle School.

In his interactions with students, he demonstrates how much he cares. As a self-described gregarious extrovert, he engages enthusiastically with students and fosters an inviting presence.

“We all try to work hard together, try to make a great experience for kids, make it a positive place to be, and that’s what we’re doing, you know. And so, it’s really good for proctor public schools. Super excited to be recognized in this way, because we are doing some really, really great stuff. It deserves to be recognized, for sure,” said Awsumb.

“I think he totally deserves it. He’s just awesome. He’s done a lot of stuff. He’s worked for it. I think he totally earns it.” shared Reese.