David Pugh Named 2026 School Principal of the Year in Florida

by Oscar Pinto

The front page of Education Insider Magazine featuring Mr. Pugh.

Christopher Columbus High School Principal David Pugh has been named the 2026 Florida School Principal of the Year by Education Insider Magazine, adding another milestone to a career at Columbus that spans nearly three decades.

“I am truly honored to be recognized, but I believe the success of our school is rooted in the strength of our entire team. It has always been my passion to lead and mentor young men and to make a meaningful difference in their lives. I am especially grateful to the Marist Brothers for their continued trust, support, and confidence in the work we do together," Mr. Pugh said.

Pugh joined Columbus in 1998 and has held a variety of roles at the school, including counselor, coach, teacher and dean. He eventually moved into school administration and now serves as Columbus' 13th principal.

Despite the administrative responsibilities that come with the position, Pugh has made being visible around campus a priority. He works closely with the school's chief financial officer on administrative responsibilities, allowing him to spend more time interacting with students, faculty and staff throughout the school day.

Administrators know his impact has gone beyond day-to-day.

"He leads with integrity, has the courage to make difficult decisions and consistently puts the needs of others ahead of his own. He treats people with fairness and respect, and when he gives you his word, you can depend on it. What I respect most about Mr. Pugh is that these aren’t just leadership qualities he talks about...they are qualities he models every day. I’m proud to call him my friend, and I’m proud to see him receive the recognition he deserves," Dean of Students Alex Trujillo said.

Vicente Velez '30 discussing Mr. Pugh's recognition

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That approach reflects what Pugh describes as servant leadership — leading through service and maintaining a consistent presence among the people he leads. His path from the classroom and athletic fields to the principal's office has allowed him to experience Columbus from several different perspectives.

Senior Martin Iparraguire said, "I've never seen a principal like him; he is one of a kind, and he is always on campus, and truly we are blessed as a school community to have Mr. Pugh as our principal"

The statewide recognition now highlights a career that began at Columbus in 1998 and has remained rooted at the school ever since.

After serving the community in a number of roles over the years, Pugh's latest honor recognizes his work from the principal's office — and the leadership approach he has developed along the way.

 "I am blessed to be part of this school community,” said Mr. Pugh