Michael Crain, principal of Nikiski Middle/High School, was named the Region III Principal of the Year by the Alaska Association of Secondary School Principals.

According to a release from the association on Wednesday, Crain has served as Nikiski’s principal for three years and was selected for the award, which honors “the educational leaders who play such a pivotal role in student success.”

Earlier this month, when Crain gave a presentation to the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District about his school and its successes this year, KPBSD Superintendent Clayton Holland surprised him with the announcement.

“You’re a person of integrity,” Holland told Crain during the meeting. “You’re steadfast, and you hold high standards for people — everyone around you.”

Holland speaks similarly in the association’s release, crediting Crain for developing a culture of high expectations at Nikiski while “providing unwavering support to his staff and students.”

Tabitha Blades, the assistant principal at Soldotna High School and also a parent to a Nikiski student, also offers praise for Crain in the release.

“He never hesitates to stand up for what is right, even if that is hard to do.” She said, “As a parent, I am proud to send my daughter to Nikiski Middle School. She feels valued and important, and that alone is enough to speak to the incredible job Mr. Crain does every day.”

A full recording of the Feb. 3 school board meeting, including Crain’s presentation on his school and testimony from Nikiski parents and teachers, can be found at the KPBSD BoardDocs website.

Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.