Sonora Union High School District is proud to announce that Karen Sells, Principal of Sonora High School, has been selected as the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 7 Secondary Principal of the Year. Region 7 includes secondary schools across Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Calaveras, Amador, Tuolumne, and Mariposa counties, representing more than 40 high schools.

Sells has served as principal of Sonora High School since November of 2020 and has worked in education for 24 years. “This recognition truly belongs to our entire administrative team and staff at Sonora High School. I am incredibly fortunate to work alongside dedicated leaders who care deeply about students and support one another every day. Being principal of Sonora High School is not just my job—it is a privilege I genuinely love, and I am grateful to serve a community that makes this work so meaningful.” Sells said.

“Karen Sells leads with high visibility, deep care, and an unwavering commitment to staff and students. This recognition reflects what our community sees every day—an exceptional principal who shows up, listens, and leads with heart and purpose,” said Ed Pelfrey, Superintendent of Sonora Union High School District.

High-impact leadership rooted in equity, wellness, and student success

Karen Sells is being recognized for advancing a student-centered school environment by aligning systems and supports to meet the diverse needs of learners. Under her leadership, Sonora High School has strengthened a culture of belonging and well-being while delivering measurable gains in student achievement.

A key part of that work is the Wellness Center, which has become an important part of how Sonora High supports student mental health and emotional well-being. The Wellness Center is a welcoming space open before school, during lunch, after school, and during class with teacher permission, providing a safe place for students to reset when they feel overwhelmed. Students most often use the Wellness Center when they are experiencing anxiety or emotional dysregulation, and many share that having a place to pause and talk with a supportive adult during the school day makes a meaningful difference. Families have also emphasized the importance of mental health and wellness supports as part of their child’s overall success at school.

This focus on wellness complements broader efforts to create positive learning environments and reduce barriers to student engagement.

Her leadership also supported a clear shift from exclusionary discipline practices to proactive and restorative approaches through implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)—contributing to a notable reduction in suspensions across student groups and stronger school climate outcomes. Over the past two years, Sonora High reduced class suspensions from 1,392 (2022–23) to 643 (2023–24)—helping more students stay in class, remain connected to school, and keep learning. Staff have strengthened consistent responses and interventions campuswide, supported by professional learning, with about two-thirds of faculty participating in MTSS courses.

Expanding opportunity through innovative programs

Under Sells’ leadership, Sonora High expanded academic and career pathways through the development of the Career and Technical (CAT) Center and growth of dual enrollment opportunities through CCAP and Middle College—bringing college instruction and support onto campus and increasing access for students across backgrounds and learning needs. 

Sells also strengthened academic systems, including implementation of a Flex Period for timely intervention and enrichment and the use of ongoing assessment practices to identify learning gaps and guide targeted support strategies. 

A visible, trusted leader who champions staff

Sells is known for a leadership presence that is both highly visible and deeply personal—grounded in consistent communication, calm problem-solving, and genuine support for staff well-being. She prioritizes relationships, listens with intention, and follows through with action—creating conditions where educators can do their best work for students.

Her commitment to staff culture is reflected in improved staff perceptions of Sonora High School as a supportive place to work, from 67% to 90% under her leadership. “Karen Sells is a model of caring, ethical leadership. She fosters a culture where professional growth and personal connection thrive,” said Pelfrey. “She expanded professional development for staff, including AP College Board training for all English teachers, which improved writing instruction for all students. She also implemented trauma-informed practices and restorative justice systems that are both ethically sound and highly effective. Karen exhibits extreme ownership of both staff well-being and student outcomes. She models learning and builds trust across campus. Her work improves systems, yet she never loses sight of the people within them,” he continued.

In a letter of recommendation, Benjamin Howell, Ed. D, Superintendent, Summerville Elementary School District,  described Sells as a leader who combines vision with a hands-on approach, demonstrating integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to meeting the needs of students and staff: “As principal of Sonora High School, Karen has demonstrated a model of comprehensive support, underpinned by integrity, compassion, and keen personal insight, tailored to meet the unique needs of students and staff.” 

About the award

ACSA’s Principal of the Year honors celebrate secondary school leaders who exemplify excellence in student achievement, equity, school culture, innovation, and ethical leadership.

Sells will be recognized at the ACSA Region 7 Awards Ceremony on May 1, 2026 in South Lake Tahoe.


Pictured above: Karen Sells, Principal of Sonora High School, has been named ACSA Region 7 Secondary Principal of the Year.

Pictured above: Karen Sells (second pictured on the right) with Sonora Union High School District’s leadership team—committed to student success, staff support, and strong school culture.

Pictured above: A proud moment on the track—Principal Karen Sells celebrating with a Sonora High student-athlete after the game.