The West Bloomfield High School auditorium seats were filled with students, staff, board members, family and many individuals from the school community awaiting the arrival of their Assistant Principal, Susan (Susie) Aisner. Upon Aisner’s arrival, the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals’ Executive Director, Wendy Zdeb, surprised her by announcing she had been selected as the Michigan 2025 High School Assistant Principal of the Year, and the auditorium erupted in celebration.
“Susie Aisner is a shining example of what it means to lead with vision, empathy and determination,” said Zdeb. “Her work has elevated West Bloomfield High School, enhancing student achievement and fostering an inclusive, supportive culture for staff and students alike.”
This prestigious recognition honors assistant principals who excel in collaborative leadership, curriculum and instruction innovation, and fostering a personalized and positive school environment.
“Susie is the quintessential 21st century educator, leaning on relationships, culture and learner-forward thinking in all of her work,” said Eric Pace, Principal of West Bloomfield High School. “She has proven to be intuitive and thoughtful in her work, fostering an environment of respect and positivity with staff, students and parents alike.”
Aisner brings more than 29 years in education, with 11 as an administrator, to her school community. Her colleagues, students and community members expressed their admiration and appreciation for her effective collaborative leadership style.
“Mrs. Aisner is a natural leader, adept at building strong relationships with both students and faculty,” said Ashlee Frankford, a West Bloomfield High School student. “Her approachable demeanor and willingness to listen make her a trusted advocate for all members of our school community.”
Throughout her nine years at WBHS, Aisner has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including a comprehensive audit of grading and scheduling systems to improve efficiency and equity. She led the development of the school’s Advisory Leadership Team, which has been instrumental in implementing social-emotional learning programs and fostering stronger teacher-student connections.
“Her hands-on involvement in key school-wide initiatives and her ability to collaborate effectively with staff, students and families make her an indispensable member of our leadership team,” said Johanna Mracna, West Bloomfield School District Assistant Superintendent of School Administration and Innovation.
Mracna described Aisner as being instrumental in WBHS’s SEL programs success; highly skilled in crisis management while being a compassionate leader; deeply dedicated to college and career readiness; and supporting students in their post-graduation planning.
“Simply put, Susie is a visionary leader who makes a lasting, positive impact in every area she touches,” Mracna said.
Scott Long, WBSD Assistant Superintendent of Learning Services also supported Aisner’s nomination.
“[There’s] one common thread: Susie’s relentless passion for doing what is best for our community and students,” Long said. “She is a thoughtful and supportive leader, a systems thinker, and a strong advocate for our kids … we are better as a district because of what Susie does.”
When recommending her for the award, Sonja James, WBSD Executive Director of Educational Equity and Inclusion, acknowledged Aisner’s qualities.
“Through her leadership, we are seeing a change in our school culture: Students feel safe, supported, and truly seen,” James said. “… she brings warmth, empathy and a collaborative spirit that makes everyone feel valued. Susie listens intently, responds thoughtfully, and builds trust through every interaction.”
As Michigan’s High School Assistant Principal of the Year, Aisner will represent the state in the National Association of Secondary School Principals’ 2025 High School National Assistant Principal of the Year program. NASSP will announce finalists and the national winner in the spring.
MASSP extends its congratulations to Susie Aisner on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her unwavering dedication to the students, staff and families of West Bloomfield High School.
About Administrator of the Year Award Programs: For more information about the NASSP National Assistant Principal of the Year program, visit www.nassp.org/apoy. For more information on MASSP and MASC/MAHS’s Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year programs, visit massp.com/poty.