(02/14/2025) The Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA) named Denise Schnabel, principal of Ramsey Elementary School, the recipient of the 2024 North Suburban Division Leadership Award. 

This honor recognizes Schnabel’s exceptional leadership, dedication to her students and staff, and innovative contributions to education. Throughout her career, Schnabel has been at the forefront of educational innovation, demonstrating her commitment to student success and community building, including the support of two other district elementary schools, Evergreen Park STEM School of Innovation and Champlin-Brooklyn Park Academy for Math and Environmental Science. Schnabel has served in leadership roles within MESPA, including President-Elect and President of the North Suburban Division. 

Recipients of the MESPA Division Leadership Achievement Award are selected by their peers across the state, awarded to principals who demonstrate exemplary leadership within their schools, communities, and MESPA, embodying transformational leadership propelled by genuine care and dedication to their students, staff, and communities. 

MESPA is the premier leadership resource for elementary and middle level principals, dedicated to connecting, developing, and providing resources for principals, and serving as a leading voice for Minnesota education.