The Lake George Central School District is proud to celebrate Lake George Elementary School Principal James Conway, who has been named the 2026 New York State Elementary School Principal of the Year by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS) and the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP).
This prestigious recognition comes during a milestone year for Conway, who will retire at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year after 18 years of dedicated leadership at Lake George Elementary School and a 36-year career in education.
Throughout his time at LGES, Conway has built a school community grounded in connection, care, and high expectations for all students. Under his leadership, the elementary school has grown into one of the highest-performing schools in the Capital Region while maintaining a strong focus on the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Superintendent John Luthringer says Conway’s leadership has had a lasting impact on the district. “Mr. Conway has demonstrated outstanding leadership, vision, dedication, and commitment to students, staff, parents, and colleagues,” he says. He adds that Conway has “spearheaded numerous initiatives focused on student growth, student voice, and empowerment,” and that his work has helped establish Lake George Elementary as “a Lighthouse School, placing it among the top schools worldwide using this leadership framework.”
During his tenure, LGES has earned numerous recognitions, including designation as a New York State Recognition School, a U.S. News Best School, and a Leader in Me Lighthouse School, an honor achieved by only a select number of schools worldwide. These accomplishments reflect Conway’s unwavering commitment to student growth, leadership development, and inclusive practices that ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.
A defining feature of Conway’s leadership has been his belief that every student has a voice and the ability to lead. Through the Leader in Me framework and a strong emphasis on student engagement, LGES has fostered a culture where students take ownership of their learning, participate in leadership opportunities, and feel a deep sense of belonging within their school.
Beyond academics, Conway has championed opportunities for students to explore their interests, resulting in nearly 100 percent participation in co-curricular activities. His commitment to building strong partnerships with families and the broader community has further strengthened the school’s foundation and sense of connection.
“Mr. Conway is truly the heart of LGES,” said Ashley Gershen, Pre-K–6 Curriculum Coordinator. “His genuine care for students and staff, along with his ability to build meaningful relationships, has created a school environment where everyone feels valued and supported.”
As he prepares for retirement, Conway leaves behind a lasting legacy defined by innovation, compassion, and an unwavering belief in students. His influence will continue to be felt in the programs he established, the culture he nurtured, and the countless lives he has impacted.