October 22, 2015
Griffin was recently named a 2015 National Distinguished Principal (NDP) by the National Association of Elementary School Principals. He is a principal at Frenchtown Elementary School in Frenchtown, Mont.
The school was recently named Best Public Elementary School in the state of Montana by the Niche ranking company.
He is credited with the implementation of a teacher mentoring program in which new teachers receive training in behavior, curriculum content and other topics from a grade-level mentor teacher.
Griffin was nominated by for the NDP award by teachers at Frenchtown Elementary, who cite his commitment to his students and inclusive administrative style as reasons for the nomination.
Every day I make a point to visit each class at least twice and show the students unconditional positive regard, said Griffin. For the students to know that I am committed to their success and well-being makes a tremendous difference in their education and lives.
A Montana native who grew up in the Bitterroot Valley, Griffin intentionally stayed in Montana to work as as educator and improve upon Montana’s public schools.
Were extremely proud to have Aaron Griffin as an alumnus of Montana Western, said Chancellor Beth Weatherby. He is a shining example of the high quality educators UMW has been producing for many years who go on to better the lives of students throughout Montana.
Griffin was honored for his achievements on Oct. 16, 2015 in Washington, D.C. at an awards banquet which included opening remarks by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.
Griffin has been a principal for a total of seven years and taught previously for thirteen years. Griffin is a member of several local and state organizations and a coach for Frenchtown’s little league and basketball teams.
A 1994 graduate of then Western Montana College, now University of Montana Western, Griffin went on to earn a masters in education, and special education and superintendent endorsements from the University of Montana.
Montana Western
