Michael Sidebotham, principal of Grafton Village Elementary School, has been named to the inaugural class of the Virginia Department of Education’s 2025-2026 Principals of Distinction, Stafford County schools announced Thursday.
The recognition marks the first year of a statewide initiative led by the state department in partnership with the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals, the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals and the Virginia Board of Education. The program honors principals who demonstrate exceptional leadership in student achievement, instructional practice and school culture.
“Strong school leadership is one of the most vital factors in driving student achievement,” Stafford Superintendent Daniel Smith said in the announcement. “Dr. Sidebotham’s leadership reflects our division’s commitment to ensuring every student has access to high-quality instruction, strong support systems and a positive school environment. By cultivating a supportive school culture, our leaders empower both teachers and students to reach their full potential. This recognition showcases the incredible leadership here in Stafford schools. I am excited for Dr. Sidebotham, and wish him continued success.”
To be selected, candidates must have had at least five years of experience as a building-level administrator and completed a rigorous application and review process. Selected principals also participated in a professional learning symposium and completed a capstone project over a six-month period.
Sidebotham has served as principal of Grafton Village since 2007. Prior to that, he was an assistant principal at Garrisonville Elementary School and a teacher at Stafford Elementary School. A native of Ohio, he earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Bowling Green State University before moving to Virginia to begin his career in education. He later earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in administration and supervision from Virginia Commonwealth University.
He was named principal of the year in Stafford in 2018. And last year, he was named a board member for the National Assessment Governing Board. He also serves on the board of directors for the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals.
“I feel deeply honored to receive this recognition,” Sidebotham said in the announcement. “I have been shaped by remarkable role models, mentors, and colleagues, and I am committed each day to honoring their legacy through thoughtful leadership and dedicated service to the students, staff and families of Grafton Village.”
At the school, Sidebotham has focused on strengthening instructional practices, supporting staff development, and creating a welcoming environment for students and families. His leadership reflects the qualities highlighted in the Principals of Distinction program, those of high expectations, strong school culture and measurable impact on student outcomes.
Principals of Distinction also serves as a pathway to the Level II endorsement in administration and supervision PreK–12, further supporting professional growth and leadership development across the state.
