Prince Edward County Schools Superintendent to step down end of September

PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — The Superintendent of Prince Edward County Public Schools will step down at the end of September after eight years, according to the Prince Edward County School Board.

According to a Wednesday, Sept. 18 press release on Prince Edward County Public Schools’ website, Superintendent Dr. Barbara Johnson will leave the school division on Monday, Sept. 30.

Dr. Johnson took on the role of division superintendent in July 2016. According to the School Board, during her eight-year tenure, she accomplished various initiatives, including a fully accredited elementary school.

According to the press release, Prince Edward County Public Schools have historically battled to maintain accreditation, however, consistent progress reportedly occurred at all three schools under Dr. Johnson’s guidance.

During Dr. Johnson’s tenure, community engagement efforts increased with the development of family engagement centers at several schools, which provided the Prince Edward community with essential educational and communication resources. A family engagement coordinator was also hired.

Dr. Johnson also developed the Bridge Builders program between Prince Edward High School, the Moton Museum and Fuqua School with the goal to create educational opportunities and innovative programming for county students.

According to the School Board, under Dr. Johnson’s leadership, the school division’s graduation rate increased by eight percentage points to 88%. College, Career and Civic Reading Indicators also reportedly increased by 10 percentage points to 86%.

The School Board said Dr. Johnson strived for capital improvements for the school division, which included a new tennis court, track, playground, steps and bathrooms for the football field.

Dr. Johnson also showed a commitment to securing a $44 million renovation for Prince Edward County Elementary School, according to the School Board.

The Prince Edward County School Board said steps will be taken to find an interim superintendent for the school division until a search process can be developed and implemented.

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