Fred Perdomo was selected by his peers as the state's vice principal of the year -- the first Northern Nevadan to receive the honor.
"I think this is an example of how well I enjoy my job at Carson High School and working with the kids," he said. "It's nice to get it at this point in my career."
Perdomo was chosen for the $1,000 award from among all state vice principals. The award is issued by the Nevada Association of School Administrators and sponsored by McDonald's.
Perdomo was recognized during Tuesday's school board meeting.
"We appreciate his work on behalf of the high school students in this district," said Richard Stokes, associate superintendent of human resources for Carson City schools. "We extend our true and sincere congratulations for winning this award."
Perdomo began his career 30 years ago at Carson High School. He taught world history for nine years then was a special-education teacher for 11 years. He was dean of students for nine years before becoming the vice principal almost two years ago.
He said the people he's worked with throughout the years have influenced his style of teaching and leadership.
"I'm a composite of them, taking bits of information from them and using it today," he said. "Those philosophies from 10, 11 and 30 years ago still work today."
Perdomo credits his drive to make the transition from teaching to administration to his wife, Christine, who is the principal of Zephyr Cove Elementary School in Lake Tahoe.
He credits Principal Glen Adair's guidance for making the transition a smooth one.
Perdomo and his wife met at Sonoma State University. Their children are Ricky, 23, and Katie, 17.
Award recipients will be honored Feb. 21 in Los Angeles by the National Association of Secondary School Principals.
Perdomo will receive the award in a ceremony in Las Vegas in November.