Mike Dawson, Branson Elementary West principal, is among 62 principals from across the country to be named honorees through the National Distinguished Principal Program. Announcement of Dawson’s Distinguished Principal status was made last spring through the National Association of Elementary School Principals. .

Dawson will be honored for this distinction at a two day event – October 14 and 15 – in Washington, D.C. The event includes a reception at the U.S. Department of State, opportunities to discuss issues facing education and a black-tie awards dinner.

Dawson has been an elementary principal with the Branson School District since 2003. He is a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa; earned a master’s degree from California State University; and earned a specialist degree from Missouri State University.