C.C. Spaulding’s Dr. Vanessa Alford Named 2025–26 Durham Public Schools Principal of the Year
The veteran educator’s open-door approach and data-informed coaching are raising outcomes and pride across the school community.
C.C. Spaulding Elementary principal Dr. Vanessa Alford has been named 2025–26 Durham Public Schools Principal of the Year, recognized for what district leaders call “a relentless focus on equity and academic excellence.”
Why It matters for Durham Families
Superintendent Dr. Anthony Lewis said Alford has transformed C.C. Spaulding into “a nurturing, high-performing learning environment” with measurable gains in literacy and math and narrowing of opportunity gaps for historically underserved students.
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A Leader Shaped by Family and Community
Alford thanked students, staff, and family. She honored her parents - one of whom completed only eighth grade - saying they instilled a deep respect for education. Pointing to her son in the front row, she added that she pushes herself so he knows “education is always the great leveler.”
Students offered tributes from the stage. “We love you because you first loved us,” a fifth grader said.
Investing in Teachers, Elevating Outcomes
District leaders credit Alford with a collaborative culture of instructional excellence - high-quality professional development, data-driven practices, and consistent coaching - that empowers teachers and builds shared accountability.
“I’m humbled,” Alford said. “It could have been anybody, but my colleagues noted that it was my time. They are here to support me.”
What’s next
As DPS Principal of the Year, Dr. Alford advances to the regional competition.
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