Tzuri Azran, principal of Nitzanei Oz School in Beit Shemesh, has been selected as one of 12 trailblazing principals in Israel for the 2025-2026 school year.

Education Minister Yoav Kisch announced the winners of the National Education Awards on Wednesday 19.08. The awards will be presented at a special ceremony on September 7. Azran was selected in the category recognizing trailblazing principals, alongside school leaders from educational institutions across Israel.

The National Education Awards recognize educators who lead outstanding initiatives and serve as examples of excellence, leadership and innovation. The selection considers achievements in education and values, educational initiatives, strengthening resilience and leadership, social involvement, and the development of educational staff.

Beit Shemesh Mayor Shmuel Greenberg congratulated Azran on the achievement, saying the national recognition is a source of pride for the school, its students and the city’s education system.

Mayor Shmuel Greenberg: “The selection of Tzuri Azran is a great source of pride for Beit Shemesh and a testament to the quality and leadership of the city’s educators. I congratulate him and the entire Nitzanei Oz team on this impressive achievement.”

Deputy Mayor and Education Commissioner Yitzchak Elmaliach said: “Tzuri Azran is an example of a principal who leads with dedication, initiative and responsibility. This recognition from the Ministry of Education is a well-deserved and joyful achievement for Beit Shemesh’s education system.”

Head of the Education Administration Yossi Goldring added: “This award reflects the work we are leading to promote excellence and innovation throughout the education system. Tzuri Azran and the Nitzanei Oz team bring this vision to life through their daily work.”

The National Education Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on September 7.