NEWPORT — Elaine Collins, superintendent of the North Country Supervisory Union, has been named the 2026 Frederick H. Tuttle Superintendent of the Year by the Vermont Superintendents Association.
The award was announced at the association’s annual banquet on May 21. It honors a superintendent who demonstrates exemplary leadership on behalf of students, public education and the broader community, and is named for Frederick H. Tuttle, a longtime Vermont superintendent and advocate for children.
Collins has spent nearly 36 years in Vermont public education, working as a support staff member, classroom teacher and principal before becoming superintendent of North Country Supervisory Union in 2022.
Under her leadership, the supervisory union has strengthened instructional systems, expanded student supports, invested in educator development and advanced collaboration across its geographically large district, according to the association.
Collins has also become a statewide voice on issues including rural education, education funding, PCB remediation, student mental health and the growing needs facing Vermont students and families.
“Many of our kids don’t have the same chances that we did,” Collins said at the banquet. “The only place they get that support is in our schools. We serve a very vital role for many of our students.”
Colleagues described Collins as a steady and authentic leader who navigates complex challenges with clarity and compassion. One nominator wrote that her leadership is driven by an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for kids. Another wrote simply that she embodies integrity, vision and service.
