Adair County Schools Superintendent Jason Faulkner has been nominated for the 2026 Excellence Award in Power Leadership from the National Association of School Superintendents. He is one of 16 superintendents to be nominated in this category.
The Excellence Award in Power Leadership recognizes superintendents who demonstrate measurable results through innovation, strategic planning and districtwide implementation.
NASS is a national nonprofit organization that supports superintendent networking and professional development from peers across the country.
Also, Faulkner was the only superintendent in Kentucky selected to attend the National Superintendents Forum this week.
He was nominated for the NASS award by Dr. Gearl Loden, superintendent of Nixa Public Schools in Missouri.
“His leadership influence extends beyond the district. As one of only 70 superintendents nationwide selected for the National Superintendents Forum, Mr. Faulkner represents Kentucky on a national stage, leading conversations on advanced data analytics and demonstrating how innovative systems can be successfully scaled in mid to large size districts,” he wrote.
Loden went on to write that Faulkner’s leadership “is transforming Adair County Schools and serves as a model for districts nationwide.”
Faulkner was hired by the Adair County school board on July 1, 2023. Since then, the district has reported improved test scores following the introduction of new curriculum and the return of textbooks back to the classroom.
Under his leadership, a new middle school is almost complete, improvements including a new football field and track, and new sports have been added to the roster.
In a collaborative statement, principals Sarah Burton, Jordan Williams, Samantha Ellis, and Chad Parnell said, “We are proud to share that our superintendent has been nominated for a national award – an honor that reflects exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to students, staff, and our community.”
The principals wrote that they see firsthand the impact of Faulkner’s leadership each day.
“Through unwavering support, a commitment to excellence, and a focus on what’s best for our kids, our superintendent continues to inspire and guide our schools forward.”
Faulkner will attend the Honoring and Pursuing Excellence Conference in Utah in September where the winner of the Excellence Award in Power Leadership will be revealed.
By Amy Pike
amy@adairvoice.com
