Kingsbury expressed, “It is a great honor to be named as the 2024 Secondary Principal of the Year. I’m truly appreciative of this award, and it represents the collective efforts of our staff, providing quality educational opportunities for our students. Educating students has always been a passion of mine, creating opportunities for students to learn, grow, and be prepared for life after high school.”

“Congratulations to Matt Kingsbury for being selected for this award by his peers. Matt’s exceptional leadership serves as inspiration for educators everywhere. His drive for student success, commitment to excellence, and active engagement in the community truly distinguish him as a deserving recipient of this award,” said SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy.

He has been principal at Vinton-Shellsburg High School since 2011. His education career began as an at-risk coordinator and physical education teacher at Wapello Community School District. He received his bachelor’s degree in physical education from the University of Northern Iowa, his master’s in educational administration from Western Illinois University and earned his advanced studies certificate in superintendency from UNI.

A committee of Iowa high school principals selected Kingsbury, and he will be recognized at the association’s Annual Conference in August.

SAI, a statewide organization founded in 1987, represents more than 2,200 Iowa educational administrators. SAI’s mission is to support, encourage and develop Iowa’s educational leaders and learners.