The Indiana Association of School Principals awarded Bloomington North’s own Mr. Matthew Stark as District 9’s Principal of the Year .The IASP annually recognizes ‘outstanding’ school leaders in each of the 12 districts across Indiana. District 9 consists of 7 counties; Morgan, Johnson, Monroe, Brown, Bartholomew, and Jackson. The selection process for this recognition consists of nomination from peers locally, and a review from the district board.
According to the IASP, the criteria for this title include “IASP membership, membership in professional organizations, community involvement, ensuring a positive school climate, and leadership at the school, district, and state level.”
Stark humbly sees this as a team effort expressing “I really feel like it represents that I work with a lot of great students and families and we do lots of great stuff”. Stark expressed that he sees this recognition as a team effort, and a reflection of the staff’s hard work. He views the award not as a personal accolade but as a reflection of his staff’s hard work and the school’s collective achievements.
Stark first found out about his 2025-26 nomination in early May, after filling out forms renewing his membership for IASP. To his surprise, Mr. Stark found a celebratory email in his inbox promptly after registering.
This wasn’t his first time receiving the honor; he has actually been awarded this title twice before, once in 2006 and again in 2008. Mr. Stark has been a member of the Indiana Association of School Principals since the very beginning of his administrative career. Beyond the plaques and titles, he takes immense pride in cultivating a positive environment that champions student voice. His long-standing commitment to student well-being and academic excellence is a cornerstone of his legacy at Bloomington North.
Bloomington North students are proud of their principal. “He’s an amazing principal, very deserving,” said Emily Mikulich.
“He shows up to our games, and is always so supportive of our team,” added Lola Hawkins, a freshman volleyball player, regarding Stark’s support at home games. Stark is excited for his achievement and feels incredibly honored to represent North at the state level.
Henceforth, a banquet will be held for nominees, where Stark could be the potential nominee for Indiana All-State Principal of the Year. Stark’s final results will be announced in late November during the IASP banquet in.
