Mukwonago, WI — The Association of Wisconsin School Administrators (AWSA) named Luke Spielman, principal of Park View Middle School, the 2025 Wisconsin Middle School Principal of the Year. This prestigious recognition, supported by the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation, celebrates Spielman’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, inclusive leadership, and community engagement.

Transformational Leadership at Park View

Since assuming the principal role at Park View in 2018, Spielman has spearheaded initiatives that have significantly enhanced student achievement and school culture. Under his guidance, the school implemented inclusive, data-driven practices aimed at closing achievement gaps and promoting college and career readiness. Notably, skill among students with disabilities has improved markedly in both math and English Language Arts. Furthermore, Park View’s DPI Growth Priority Score soared from the 11th to the 75th percentile within just two years.

Spielman’s strategic efforts included restructuring the school schedule to extend instructional time and establishing protected collaboration periods for teachers. These changes fostered a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and empowerment, directly contributing to enhanced student outcomes.

“This award isn’t about me,” Spielman said. “This award is measured by our students and staff and their growth, engagement and their achievements. That’s what truly matters.”

Cultivating a Positive School Culture

Beyond academics, Spielman has been instrumental in nurturing a supportive and inclusive school environment. He introduced the “Mustang Way” Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework. This achievement earned Park View the Wisconsin RtI Center Bronze Level Recognition. This initiative emphasizes strong relationships with students and their families, reinforcing a culture that supports all learners.

Project Lead The Way recognized Park View as a Distinguished School. This was due to its commitment to providing broad access to STEM education. It was one of only eight middle schools in Wisconsin and 110 nationwide to receive this honor.

A Leader Beyond the School Walls

Spielman’s influence extends beyond Park View Middle School. He facilitates a professional network of 44 area middle school principals, fostering collaboration and shared best practices across the region. Moreover, he contributes to the broader educational community by teaching graduate-level education courses, preparing the next generation of school leaders .​

He demonstrates his commitment to leadership development by establishing structures like the Guiding Coalition and student government, which empower both staff and students to take active roles in shaping the school’s direction.tion .​

A Community Celebrates

The Mukwonago Area School District community has expressed immense pride in Spielman’s accomplishments. Superintendent Dr. Joe Koch remarked, “Mr. Spielman is the kind of principal every community hopes for—thoughtful, strategic, and relentlessly student focused. Under his leadership, Park View Middle School has become a place where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to grow. The impact of his leadership is visible not just in data, but also in the culture he has cultivated at the school.”

Spielman’s educational journey began as a social studies teacher in the Kettle Moraine School District. He later served as an associate principal in the Watertown Unified School District before taking on his current role. He holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from the University of Wisconsin and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Marian University.

For more information about Park View Middle School and its programs, visit the official school website.

Each year, teachers, parents, staff, and administrators nominate principals for this prestigious award. A committee of parents and classroom, school, and district leaders then selects the recipients. To learn more about the award, visit https://awsa.memberclicks.net/principal-of-the-year.