We’re on a mission to show our #PrincipalPrideChi and thank Chicago’s public school principals. Join us!
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The Principal Appreciation Campaign
For 10 years, we have proudly led Chicago’s citywide Principal Appreciation Campaign, a collaborative effort with Chicago Public Schools, the city of Chicago, and valued partners like the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, William Blair, Northern Trust, and BMO. As part of Principal Appreciation Month every October, this campaign celebrates the exceptional work of Chicago’s school leaders and their positive impact on students, teachers, and communities.
A Letter to Chicago Principals
To kick off Principal Appreciation Month, The Fund and the Illinois Principals Association (IPA) sent a letter of thanks to Chicago Public Schools principals. Co-signed by Dr. Heather Y. Anichini, president and CEO of The Fund, and Dr. Jason E. Leahy, executive director of IPA, the letter celebrates this year’s theme, Powering Possibilities, and honors principals who expand what is possible for their students, staff, and school communities. It also looks ahead to the next generation of school leaders, inviting principals to encourage someone in their school community to take the next step toward leadership.
Principal Appreciation Toolkit
Show your appreciation for your principal with our toolkit. It includes social media content to help you celebrate your school leader online (use the hashtag #PrincipalPrideChi), an event calendar so you can let them know about appreciation events they can attend, and a recognition form that you can fill out so we can give them a shoutout on our social channels too.
Principal Storytelling Evening
The culmination of the Appreciation Campaign every year is the Principal Storytelling Evening, where attendees hear inspiring leadership stories from principals who have positively impacted their school communities. It is a profound opportunity to witness the value school leaders provide our entire city. Watch the 2025 recap video below.
The CTA Campaign
Throughout October 2026, we showcased public school principals on Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and trains as part of Principal Appreciation Month. The ads were visible on various train lines and on the back of buses around the city.
Our Sponsors
​Thank you to our 2026 Principal Appreciation Month sponsors.
Donate to Celebrate Principals Today!
We welcome all donation levels year-round. Organizations interested in Principal Appreciation Campaign sponsorship can contact us at development@thefundchicago.org.