FLORENCE — West Florence High School's Rahsaan "Saani" Perry is the high school level 2025 National Assistant Principal of the Year. Perry is South Carolina’s second school leader to earn national recognition this year. Fairfield Central High School's Tracie Swilley was named the 2025 National Principal of the Year in October. Perry is one of two educators to be given the distinction by the National Association of Secondary School Principals this year. Elizabeth "Liz" Nelson of Pilgrim Park Middle School in Elm Grove, WI received the middle level honor. Perry was honored as South Carolina's High School Assistant Principal of the Year in December, which made him eligible to compete for the national honor. Florence School District One Superintendent Dr. Richard O’Malley said Perry's talent for motivating both students and staff has established a benchmark for educational leadership that merits national recognition. Since joining West Florence in 2021, Perry has led the growth of the STEM magnet program, launched eight new courses and brought on four additional faculty members. He also founded a male mentorship program to provide support to students. Perry is a source of hope for students, West Florence High School Principal Matt Dowdell said in a press release. He made it his mission to serve the school, staff and community from his first day on the job. “This honor is not just mine—it belongs to the incredible West Florence High School community members who make our school such a special home,” Perry said in a press release. “It’s a privilege to serve in a role where I can push the boundaries of what’s possible for our students and educators.”