College of Education alumna and current grad student named Alabama’s Principal of the Year

When Kelli Fischer walked onto the field before Opelika High School’s second-round football playoff game this fall, she thought she was there for a routine presentation from the mayor. Instead, surrounded by students, band members, cheerleaders, coaches and families, Fischer — Opelika High's principal — was stunned to hear her name announced as the 2025–2026 Alabama High School Principal of the Year.

“I learned about the Alabama High School Principal of the Year Award in the most surprising and humbling way,” Fischer said. “Being recognized with this award is incredibly meaningful, not because of my name on it, but because it shines a light on the positive work happening at Opelika High School. Our students and staff are remarkable, and this recognition is a reflection of their hard work, resilience and commitment to excellence.”

Where heart meets rigor

For Fischer, the honor is the latest milestone in a career defined by service, leadership, and a deep commitment to students — and Auburn University’s College of Education has played a transformative role in preparing her for such success.

Fischer earned her Bachelor of Science degree in secondary social science education from Auburn’s College of Education in 2011, followed by a Master of Education in instructional leadership and administration from Troy University in 2016. She recently completed her Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree through Auburn’s College of Education and is now pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership there.

“My experience in Auburn’s College of Education has been both challenging and energizing,” Fischer said. “The classes are rigorous, but they are also very practical and immediately applicable to my work as a principal. Our professors create space for rich discussion, critical reflection and collaboration with peers who serve in a variety of roles across the state.”

Her favorite aspect of the program? “How closely it connects theory to the real world of schools,” Fischer said. “Every assignment, project and reading can be tied back to the work I am doing with students and staff at Opelika High School. I also value the relationships with faculty and classmates; it truly feels like a professional learning community where we challenge one another and celebrate each other’s wins.”

“What I love most about Auburn’s College of Education is how well it balances heart and rigor,” Fischer added. “The faculty genuinely care about who we are as people and as leaders, while also pushing us to think critically, analyze data and engage in meaningful research. The program is deeply connected to real-world practice, so I can take what I learn in class and immediately apply it at Opelika High School.”

Her research focuses on school culture, student belonging and leadership practices. She is currently studying Opelika High’s Dawg Impact Groups and Dedicated Dawgs program, using data and research methods to evaluate initiatives that directly affect students.

A journey rooted in education and community

Fischer grew up in Dadeville, Alabama, in a family that valued community service and public education. After earning her undergraduate degree from Auburn, she began her teaching career in 2011 as a social studies teacher at Phenix City Intermediate School. She later moved to Smiths Station High School, where she discovered her passion for helping high school students plan for life beyond graduation.

“In 2016, I joined Opelika High School as an assistant principal, which gave me the opportunity to support teachers, lead school-wide initiatives and learn the instructional and operational side of running a large high school,” Fischer said. “In 2022, I was given the incredible opportunity to step into the role of principal at Opelika High School, and I have been honored to serve in that capacity ever since.”

Her favorite part of the job? “Without question, it’s the people,” Fischer said. “I get a front-row seat to watch students grow into young adults and to support teachers and staff who pour their hearts into our kids every day.”

Since becoming principal, Fischer has launched several initiatives aimed at strengthening school culture, attendance and student support.

“One of our major initiatives is Dedicated Dawgs, an incentive program that recognizes students who maintain strong attendance, avoid major discipline issues and stay on top of their academics,” she explained. “We have also launched DIG — Dawg Impact Groups, a daily advisory period where every student is connected with a small group and a caring adult. DIG gives students a built-in time for relationship-building, academic support and social-emotional check-ins.”

These programs, along with efforts to integrate technology and maintain consistent expectations, reflect Fischer’s belief that strong, student-centered leadership can change the trajectory of schools and communities— a belief that Auburn has helped her strengthen.

The Auburn impact

For prospective students considering Auburn’s Educational Leadership program, Fischer offers this advice:

“If they are serious about leading with both excellence and empathy, Auburn’s College of Education is a powerful place to grow. You will be challenged to think deeply about school improvement and the real factors that impact students, teachers and communities. Be ready to work hard, reflect honestly and connect your ‘why’ to every assignment, project and research question.”

As Fischer looks ahead, her goal remains clear: “My career goal is to continue leading in ways that positively impact students, families and teachers. For me, that means serving as an effective, student-centered principal at Opelika High School. I could honestly see myself retiring as principal of Opelika High School!”

Reflecting on her Auburn experience, Fischer said:

“I have learned that effective leadership is both data-informed and deeply human. Auburn has strengthened my ability to analyze data, design research and evaluate programs, but it has also reminded me that every number represents a student, a family or a teacher. I will carry with me a commitment to leading with clarity, humility and courage, always keeping students at the center of decisions.”

For Fischer, Auburn is more than a university — it’s a community and a catalyst for change.

“My favorite thing about Auburn is the sense of family and shared purpose,” she said. “The values expressed in the Auburn Creed are not just words on a page; they are lived out in the way people support one another and invest in their communities.”