The Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals (MoASSP), in proud partnership with Walsworth Publishing Company, recently named their eight regional Consummate Professionals.

Cuba Middle School Principal Marie Shoemaker was named the 2026 MoASSP/Walsworth South Central Region Consummate Professional. This award is an honor for receiving administrators as it is selected by their peers and is a validation of their commitment and dedication to the principalship and MoASSP.

Dr. Robert C. Howe, MoASSP Executive Director from 1987-1995, coined the phrase, "The Consummate Professional" many years ago.

Dr. Howe wrote that, "I believe the principalship to be the most demanding, most exciting and most rewarding job in school administration. And I say, secondary school principals are without question, unequivocally - the consummate professionals."

Additionally, recipients are selected for their contributions to the school and the community; leadership in improving student achievement; leadership to the principalship and MoASSP; maintaining a school climate that is positive and reflects high staff and student moral; and is respected by students, colleagues, parents and the community at large.

MoASSP officially honored Shoemaker, along with seven other regional recipients, during the Awards Luncheon at the Spring Conference at the Lodge of the Four Seasons, Sunday, March 22. Representatives of Walsworth Publishing Company were on-hand to present the awards.

Walsworth also provides a $500 scholarship that Shoemaker will present to a graduating senior in the Cuba Class of 2026. This scholarship has not restrictions on student selection.

Executive Director of MoASSP, Chris Hoehne, said of all principal and student recipients, “MoASSP is proud to partner with Walsworth Publishing Company to honor these outstanding Missouri principals and their students for the meaningful service they provide to their schools and communities. Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to students help shape school cultures where young people can thrive both academically and personally.”

Hoehne went on to add, “At the heart of this recognition is the mission of MoASSP: to strengthen secondary education through positive leadership and the continuous improvement of student performance. By celebrating educators and students who exemplify service, leadership, and excellence, we reaffirm our shared commitment to building strong schools and brighter futures for Missouri’s students.”