Welcome to the Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP). We are a professional educational association of over 1,300 active and retired secondary and middle school administrators who seek to grow professionally and to effect positive change in our world today.

MASSP is an affiliate of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), based in Reston, Virginia.

Minnesota Association of Secretaries to the Principals (MASP) is an affiliate of our organization. They are a professional educational association intended to provide in-service training, networking opportunities, professional development programs, and peer support.

Minnesota Association of Student Councils (MASC), and the Minnesota Association of Honor Societies (MAHS), are two student organizations affiliated with MASSP. They exist to provide member high school and middle school students, and their advisors, the opportunity to participate in leadership activities and other events to better themselves and their student organizations.

Thoughts from Bob Driver

As we move into the final stretch of the school year, it's easy—especially for seasoned administrators—to view this time as another familiar cycle. You've navigated countless end-of-year checklists, ceremonies, and wrap-ups. But for our students, especially those transitioning to middle school, high school, college, a career, or military service, this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. It’s not just the end of a year—it’s the beginning of a new chapter, filled with unknowns and emotions that many are experiencing for the first time.

This is where your leadership becomes more than operational—it becomes transformational. What are you doing to help make these transitions smoother for your students? Are there systems in place to prepare them academically, socially, and emotionally? Have you identified the students who might need a little more support—those who don’t yet have a clear plan, who are feeling anxious, or who are quietly struggling with the idea of change?

These final weeks are critical. Consider hosting transition-focused events or conversations, creating peer mentoring opportunities, and ensuring counselors and teachers are aware of the signs of stress in students. Don’t underestimate the power of a reassuring conversation or a thoughtful gesture. And remember—your staff also plays a key role. Help them understand that for many students, this is an emotional time. Encourage them to pause, connect, and guide students through this meaningful milestone.

Finishing strong isn't just about grades and graduation—it’s about helping students leave feeling prepared, supported, and hopeful for what’s next. Let’s make sure we’re not just closing a year—we’re opening a door.

To see more from this month's Connections Newsletter, click here.