Student success is directly related to long-term school improvement efforts, so this framework is readily applicable to any grade level, K–12.
[5] NASSP promotes the intellectual growth, academic achievement, character and leadership development, and physical well-being of youth.
It creates the opportunity for students to become effective leaders, thus encouraging and influencing a positive school climate.
Its operation and administration are at the national office in Reston, VA. An Advisory Committee—whose membership includes students, advisers, and principals appointed by the NASSP Board of Directors—provides input and advice to NatStuCo staff.
The Bridge Builders program recognized middle level and high school principals who had implemented proven strategies to create connections between their faculty and surrounding communities.
[12] More specifically, nominated schools must demonstrate continuous growth on state assessments (and improved graduation rates among high schools), efforts to reduce the achievement gap, and have a student body consisting of 40% or more eligible for free or reduced price meals.
[13] From 2008 to 2014, selected schools received a $5,000 grant and were featured in the association's monthly magazine, Principal Leadership.
Principals of Breakthrough Schools participated in professional development activities and the annual NASSP conference.