by Lynn Briggs

SMITHFIELD
Isle of Wight County Schools announced administrative changes last Sunday in preparation for the 2018-2019 school year.

Zachary Haney, assistant principal at Windsor High School, has been selected as principal for Smithfield High School, beginning July 1. IWCS announced in March that Smithfield High School’s current principal, Casey Roberts, will become the division’s new director of innovation and strategic planning.

Haney began his education career as an English 8 and geography teacher at John F. Kennedy Middle School in Suffolk. He came to Isle of Wight County in 2015 as an assistant principal at Westside Elementary. He served in this role for two years before moving to Windsor High School in the same position.

Haney has a bachelor of arts in English literature and history from Salisbury University and a Master of Science in education from Old Dominion University, as well as a Master of Arts in educational leadership from Hampton University. He is presently working on his doctorate in educational leadership at Old Dominion University.

The selection process for Smithfield’s new principal was very extensive and included both a teacher and a student interview panel, as well as a survey of the Smithfield High community to identify characteristics the new principal should possess.

“Mr. Haney is a visionary leader who understands the importance of building strong relationships with students, staff and stakeholders,” said Superintendent Dr. Jim Thornton. “He is committed to providing students with a positive learning environment, as well as opportunities for them to develop the skills necessary for success after graduation. His enthusiasm and passion as an educator will continue to grow the legacy of Smithfield High as an integral part of our community.”

In additional changes, Kristen Formella will join the division as an Instructional Coordinator beginning July 1. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Math/Actuary Science from Clarion University in Pennsylvania, a Master’s degree in Statistics from West Virginia University, and an Educational Specialist degree from The George Washington University. Formella is currently an Assistant Principal with Newport News Public Schools. From 2003 to 2012 she was a Math teacher with Isle of Wight County Schools. In her new role with IWCS, she will provide support for the K-12 math and science curriculum.

Laura Cummings, currently the Math Coordinator for Isle of Wight County Schools, will become an Instructional Coordinator, also effective July 1. She holds Bachelor degrees in Elementary Education and Intermediate Education with a concentration in Math from Appalachian State. She has both her Masters and a Certificate of Advanced Studies from ODU. Cummings has been in education for 35 years, and has spent the last 29 years with IWCS. In her career with the division, she has served as a math teacher, lead teacher, assistant principal, principal and coordinator. Her new responsibilities will focus on assisting schools with the implementation of Response to Intervention (RtI.)

“I am pleased that Isle of Wight County Schools will continue to benefit from Mrs. Cummings’ dedication and leadership,” said Thornton. “I also welcome Mrs. Formella to our administrative team and know her expertise will continue to move the division forward as we focus on preparing students to be college, career and life ready.”

Lynn Briggs is Isle of Wight County Schools’ director of community and media relations. She can be reached at 365-1611.