Andrea Johnson/MDN
Kendo Carlson is the NDAESP Distinguished School Principal.
Washington Elementary principal Kendo Carlson, a former school counselor, said building relationships with students and their families is crucial for learning.
“That’s one of the keys,” said Carlson, who was named North Dakota Association of Elementary School Principals Distinguished Principal at a conference last month. He is one of 50 principals across the country who have been recognized for their outstanding performance. Mike Arlien, principal at Jim Hill Middle School, was recognized at the same conference as a Bell Ringer and John Hoeven Elementary Principal Joy Walker, who is retiring after this school year, was recognized for her years of service.