š Happy Fourth of July from Washington County Public Schools! ā¤ļøš¤š
We hope you're enjoying a day filled with family, friends, great food, and plenty of summer fun as we celebrate Independence Day!
Whether you're watching fireworks, firing up the grill, or simply spending time with those you love, we wish you a safe, joyful, and memorable holiday.
We hope you're enjoying a day filled with family, friends, great food, and plenty of summer fun as we celebrate Independence Day!
Whether you're watching fireworks, firing up the grill, or simply spending time with those you love, we wish you a safe, joyful, and memorable holiday.
š¢ Washington County Public Schools is continuing to offer free meal opportunities this summer for all children and teens 18 and under!
Grab-and-Go Meals in July: Thanks to our partnership with Feeding Southwest Virginia, families have the opportunity to pick up multiple Grab-and-Go breakfasts and lunches at various locations ā no need to stay onsite and eat! Children do NOT need to be present for meal pick-up. Enrollment is required through Feeding Southwest Virginia ā forms will be available at each pick-up site. You may only get meals from one location.
Check out our full schedule for locations, dates, and times in the graphics below.
Grab-and-Go Meals in July: Thanks to our partnership with Feeding Southwest Virginia, families have the opportunity to pick up multiple Grab-and-Go breakfasts and lunches at various locations ā no need to stay onsite and eat! Children do NOT need to be present for meal pick-up. Enrollment is required through Feeding Southwest Virginia ā forms will be available at each pick-up site. You may only get meals from one location.
Check out our full schedule for locations, dates, and times in the graphics below.
āļøšø Summer fun continues for our WCPS students!
From vacations and camps to outdoor adventures, sports, and time spent with family and friends, we've loved seeing how our students are making the most of summer break. Thank you to everyone who has shared photos with us!
There's still plenty of summer left, and we'd love to see even more memories!
š§ To submit your summer photos, email them to School Outreach Specialist Ashley Hoak at ahoak@wcs.k12.va.us.
Please note: Submitted photos may be shared on WCPS social media platforms.
From vacations and camps to outdoor adventures, sports, and time spent with family and friends, we've loved seeing how our students are making the most of summer break. Thank you to everyone who has shared photos with us!
There's still plenty of summer left, and we'd love to see even more memories!
š§ To submit your summer photos, email them to School Outreach Specialist Ashley Hoak at ahoak@wcs.k12.va.us.
Please note: Submitted photos may be shared on WCPS social media platforms.
š Back to School 2026-2027
Make sure your child is ready for the first day of school -- get their vaccines now and avoid the last-minute rush!
šBeat the back-to-school wait times
šøNo out-of-pocket cost for required vaccines
šVaccines available through your local healthcare provider or health department
Make sure your child is ready for the first day of school -- get their vaccines now and avoid the last-minute rush!
šBeat the back-to-school wait times
šøNo out-of-pocket cost for required vaccines
šVaccines available through your local healthcare provider or health department
As Washington County Public Schools continue planning for future school facility needs, we want to share information about a potential funding opportunity made possible through the recent adoption of Virginiaās state budget for future school construction and capital improvement projects.
At its June 25 meeting, the Washington County School Board approved a resolution supporting the opportunity for Washington County to consider placing a one-percent local sales tax referendum before voters. It is important to note that the School Boardās action did not approve a new tax. Rather, the resolution supports having a community conversation, with input from Washington County residents, about the opportunity to decide the question through a local referendum. The option excludes groceries and certain personal hygiene products, while including a requirement for the increase to end after a specified period of time.
The Washington County Board of Supervisors has scheduled a special called meeting on Tuesday, July 7, at 6:00 p.m. to hear a presentation from Dr. Keith Perrigan, Superintendent of Washington County Public Schools, regarding the potential school construction referendum. During the presentation, information will be shared about the school divisionās current and future capital improvement needs.
A few examples of a very extensive list of capital improvement needs identified through long-range planning and recent facilities assessments include:
Major mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) improvements identified through the Thompson & Litton facilities assessment
Construction of a band room at E.B. Stanley Middle School
Athletic facility improvements to better accommodate the needs of each middle and high school athletic program
Inclusive playgrounds at each elementary school
A new Career & Technical Education Center to expand student opportunities and enhance instructional programming
Under Virginia law, if approved by voters, revenue generated through a one-percent local sales tax may be used only for school construction, major renovations, capital improvements, and debt service associated with those projects. These funds cannot be used for salaries, instructional programs, or the day-to-day operating expenses of the school division.
If the Washington County Board of Supervisors elects to place the referendum on the ballot, Washington County voters will make the final decision in the November General Election.
āWCPS Educator Spotlight
Washington County Public Schools is proud to recognize Lillie Ruble, a first-year teacher at Watauga Elementary School in the Center-Based Classroom, for her outstanding commitment to students and her service beyond the classroom.
This summer, Ms. Ruble was selected to serve as a Special Events Lead Volunteer and Photographer for the Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In this role, she contributed to the planning and execution of major events including the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, the ESPN Unified Sports Challenge, and other signature experiences for thousands of athletes from across the country.
Her work with the Special Olympics USA Games reflects the same dedication she demonstrates each day at Watauga Elementary. Ms. Ruble is known for her thoughtful planning, individualized instruction, and commitment to ensuring that every student feels included, supported, and able to fully participate in classroom learning.
We are proud to celebrate educators like Ms. Ruble whose passion for service and inclusion extends far beyond the classroom and makes a lasting impact on the students and communities she serves.
Washington County Public Schools is proud to recognize Lillie Ruble, a first-year teacher at Watauga Elementary School in the Center-Based Classroom, for her outstanding commitment to students and her service beyond the classroom.
This summer, Ms. Ruble was selected to serve as a Special Events Lead Volunteer and Photographer for the Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In this role, she contributed to the planning and execution of major events including the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, the ESPN Unified Sports Challenge, and other signature experiences for thousands of athletes from across the country.
Her work with the Special Olympics USA Games reflects the same dedication she demonstrates each day at Watauga Elementary. Ms. Ruble is known for her thoughtful planning, individualized instruction, and commitment to ensuring that every student feels included, supported, and able to fully participate in classroom learning.
We are proud to celebrate educators like Ms. Ruble whose passion for service and inclusion extends far beyond the classroom and makes a lasting impact on the students and communities she serves.
šš¦ What a wild week at Washington County Public Schools' Gifted Summer Camp!
Students in grades 1ā8 recently spent four exciting days exploring this year's theme, Habitats, through engaging, hands-on learning experiences at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center.
Throughout the week, students investigated a variety of ecosystems, including temperate forests, mountains, deserts, freshwater habitats, oceans, and rainforests. Activities included dissecting owl pellets, examining pond water under a microscope, designing and testing water filtration systems, completing survival challenges, building shelters to withstand the elements, and even creating their own habitat-themed board games.
The week concluded with a field trip to Bays Mountain Park, where students had the opportunity to connect what they learned in the classroom with real-world habitats and wildlife.
Thank you to our dedicated teachers and staff for providing another unforgettable week of discovery, creativity, and learning. We hope everyone had a fantastic time!
Students in grades 1ā8 recently spent four exciting days exploring this year's theme, Habitats, through engaging, hands-on learning experiences at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center.
Throughout the week, students investigated a variety of ecosystems, including temperate forests, mountains, deserts, freshwater habitats, oceans, and rainforests. Activities included dissecting owl pellets, examining pond water under a microscope, designing and testing water filtration systems, completing survival challenges, building shelters to withstand the elements, and even creating their own habitat-themed board games.
The week concluded with a field trip to Bays Mountain Park, where students had the opportunity to connect what they learned in the classroom with real-world habitats and wildlife.
Thank you to our dedicated teachers and staff for providing another unforgettable week of discovery, creativity, and learning. We hope everyone had a fantastic time!
š¢ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Washington County Virginia School Board will hold a Public Hearing to receive the views of citizens within the school division about the Monroe District School Board vacancy on Monday, July 13, 2026, beginning at 6:00 pm. The meeting will be held at the School Board Office, 812 Thompson Drive, Abingdon, Virginia. The candidates who have applied and will be considered for appointment are Paula Fore; Janet S. Lester; Benjamin Andrew āAndyā Puckett; Holly Rutherford; and Basil K. Walker.
The Washington County Virginia School Board will hold a Public Hearing to receive the views of citizens within the school division about the Monroe District School Board vacancy on Monday, July 13, 2026, beginning at 6:00 pm. The meeting will be held at the School Board Office, 812 Thompson Drive, Abingdon, Virginia. The candidates who have applied and will be considered for appointment are Paula Fore; Janet S. Lester; Benjamin Andrew āAndyā Puckett; Holly Rutherford; and Basil K. Walker.
šā Be a Bean Recognition ā Patrick Henry High School
Washington County Public Schools is proud to recognize Ms. Maggie Deel, Ms. Mary Parks, and Michael Morrison of Patrick Henry High School for demonstrating kindness, compassion, and leadership.
While attending a performance at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, Patrick Henry High School gifted students went out of their way to make a group of senior citizens from the Garden of Eden Senior Center feel welcome. Students graciously gave up their seats, engaged the group in conversation, and even shared a few dances before the show began.
The experience made such a lasting impression that members of the senior center wrote a letter to Principal Dr. Duncan, sharing that the interaction with our students was the highlight of their trip.
Thank you, Ms. Deel, Ms. Parks, Michael, and our PHHS students for representing Washington County Public Schools with kindness and reminding us that even the simplest acts of generosity can leave a lasting impact.
Washington County Public Schools is proud to recognize Ms. Maggie Deel, Ms. Mary Parks, and Michael Morrison of Patrick Henry High School for demonstrating kindness, compassion, and leadership.
While attending a performance at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, Patrick Henry High School gifted students went out of their way to make a group of senior citizens from the Garden of Eden Senior Center feel welcome. Students graciously gave up their seats, engaged the group in conversation, and even shared a few dances before the show began.
The experience made such a lasting impression that members of the senior center wrote a letter to Principal Dr. Duncan, sharing that the interaction with our students was the highlight of their trip.
Thank you, Ms. Deel, Ms. Parks, Michael, and our PHHS students for representing Washington County Public Schools with kindness and reminding us that even the simplest acts of generosity can leave a lasting impact.
šWCPS Alumni Spotlight
Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community.
Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8
Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community.
Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8
š¢ Washington County Public Schools is continuing to offer free meal opportunities this summer for all children and teens 18 and under!
Grab-and-Go Meals in June and July: Thanks to our partnership with Feeding Southwest Virginia, families have the opportunity to pick up multiple Grab-and-Go breakfasts and lunches at various locations ā no need to stay onsite and eat! Children do NOT need to be present for meal pick-up. Enrollment is required through Feeding Southwest Virginia ā forms will be available at each pick-up site. You may only get meals from one location.
Check out our full schedule for locations, dates, and times in the graphics below.
Grab-and-Go Meals in June and July: Thanks to our partnership with Feeding Southwest Virginia, families have the opportunity to pick up multiple Grab-and-Go breakfasts and lunches at various locations ā no need to stay onsite and eat! Children do NOT need to be present for meal pick-up. Enrollment is required through Feeding Southwest Virginia ā forms will be available at each pick-up site. You may only get meals from one location.
Check out our full schedule for locations, dates, and times in the graphics below.
š¾š FFA State & American Degrees Recognized by the School Board
Washington County Public Schools is proud to recognize students from Abingdon High School, John S. Battle High School, Patrick Henry High School, and Holston High School who were recently awarded FFA State Degrees and FFA American Degrees.
These prestigious honors represent years of dedication, leadership, and hands-on learning through agricultural education and FFA participation. Students earning these distinctions demonstrated outstanding commitment to career readiness, leadership development, and agricultural education through their school-based FFA programs.
We are proud of all of our FFA students for representing Washington County with excellence!
šš Outstanding Academic Performance Recognized by the School Board
Washington County Public Schools is proud to recognize two exceptional students from Valley Institute Elementary School for outstanding academic achievement and growth.
Nicky Sutton (1st Grade) demonstrated remarkable growth this school year after joining VIES and embracing a fresh start. Through determination, hard work, and a strong partnership between home and school, Nicky made extraordinary academic progress -- earning the highest growth in his grade level on the VALLSS assessment, with an increase of more than 100 points. In addition to his academic success, he has grown as a friend, classmate, and leader, earning recognition as Student of the Month and bringing joy to his school community each day.
Andrew Scott (5th Grade) achieved exceptional academic success this school year, earning a perfect score of 600 on his 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade Math SOL assessments, as well as a 600 on his 5th grade Science and Virginia Studies SOL assessments. In addition to his outstanding academic performance, Andrew is known as a dedicated student who consistently demonstrates strong effort, a positive attitude, and a commitment to excellence in the classroom each day.
šļøš¢ New EmpowerED Podcast Episode Available!
The Washington County Public Schools Parent Resource Center has released a new episode of the EmpowerED Podcast, featuring an important conversation about parent stress, burnout, and self-care.
In this episode, representatives from the Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) discuss the challenges many families face and share strategies and resources to help parents prioritize their well-being while supporting their children.
š§ Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7CZ9o4R1ljAeOllHG2O2Gd...
Be sure to follow the EmpowerED Podcast on Spotify so you never miss an episode:
https://open.spotify.com/show/5AJoy78OgYw57PZ2nSaFQb...
Stay tuned for the next episode coming in July featuring the I'm Determined Project!
Follow the Washington County Public Schools Parent Resource Center Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577049952532
The Washington County Public Schools Parent Resource Center has released a new episode of the EmpowerED Podcast, featuring an important conversation about parent stress, burnout, and self-care.
In this episode, representatives from the Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) discuss the challenges many families face and share strategies and resources to help parents prioritize their well-being while supporting their children.
š§ Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7CZ9o4R1ljAeOllHG2O2Gd...
Be sure to follow the EmpowerED Podcast on Spotify so you never miss an episode:
https://open.spotify.com/show/5AJoy78OgYw57PZ2nSaFQb...
Stay tuned for the next episode coming in July featuring the I'm Determined Project!
Follow the Washington County Public Schools Parent Resource Center Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577049952532
ššø Summer memories continue to roll in from our WCPS students!
From vacations and camps to sports, family adventures, and fun close to home, we've enjoyed seeing how our students are making the most of their summer break. Thank you to everyone who has shared photos with us so far!
There's still plenty of summer left, and we'd love to feature more of our students' adventures.
š§ To submit photos, email them to School Outreach Specialist Ashley Hoak at ahoak@wcs.k12.va.us.
Please note: Submitted photos may be shared on WCPS social media platforms.
From vacations and camps to sports, family adventures, and fun close to home, we've enjoyed seeing how our students are making the most of their summer break. Thank you to everyone who has shared photos with us so far!
There's still plenty of summer left, and we'd love to feature more of our students' adventures.
š§ To submit photos, email them to School Outreach Specialist Ashley Hoak at ahoak@wcs.k12.va.us.
Please note: Submitted photos may be shared on WCPS social media platforms.
š Back to School 2026-2027
Make sure your child is ready for the first day of school -- get their vaccines now and avoid the last-minute rush!
šBeat the back-to-school wait times
šøNo out-of-pocket cost for required vaccines
šVaccines available through your local healthcare provider or health department
Make sure your child is ready for the first day of school -- get their vaccines now and avoid the last-minute rush!
šBeat the back-to-school wait times
šøNo out-of-pocket cost for required vaccines
šVaccines available through your local healthcare provider or health department
šāØ Summer Look Back: One of Our Most Popular Posts of the 2025-2026 School Year!
In January, we shared the inspiring story of John S. Battle High School student Noah Street, whose selfless actions reminded us of what it means to go above and beyond for others.
When a fallen tree blocked the road and left Bus 85 unable to continue its route, Noah didn't hesitate to help. Living nearby, he hopped on his four-wheeler, made his way to the scene, and worked alongside VDOT crews to help clear the roadway until additional assistance arrived -- allowing traffic to move again and the bus to safely continue its route.
After helping clear the road, Noah headed back home, walked down the road, and still made it onto the bus to get to school.
Noah's willingness to step up, lend a hand, and put others first is a wonderful example of kindness, responsibility, and what it means to Be a Bean.
In January, we shared the inspiring story of John S. Battle High School student Noah Street, whose selfless actions reminded us of what it means to go above and beyond for others.
When a fallen tree blocked the road and left Bus 85 unable to continue its route, Noah didn't hesitate to help. Living nearby, he hopped on his four-wheeler, made his way to the scene, and worked alongside VDOT crews to help clear the roadway until additional assistance arrived -- allowing traffic to move again and the bus to safely continue its route.
After helping clear the road, Noah headed back home, walked down the road, and still made it onto the bus to get to school.
Noah's willingness to step up, lend a hand, and put others first is a wonderful example of kindness, responsibility, and what it means to Be a Bean.
REMINDER: ONE WEEK LEFT TO APPLY FOR THE MONROE DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD VACANCY
The Washington County School Board announced on June 9, that it is seeking qualified applicants to fill a vacancy in the Monroe District seat, following the formal resignation of board member Dr. Lee Brannon, effective June 9, 2026. Dr. Brannon has been a strong education leader in Washington County and Southwest Virginia for decades and resigned to become the Interim Board of Supervisor Member for the Monroe District.
Pursuant to Virginia Code Ā§ 24.2-228(A), the School Board will fill the vacancy on an interim basis by appointment made by the remaining members. The interim member will serve until a qualified person is officially elected to fill the remainder of the term during a Special Election likely to be held concurrently with the next general election in November 2026. The current term for the Monroe District seat runs through December 31, 2027.
Application Process for Interim Appointment: The School Board invites qualified voters residing within the Monroe Election District to submit application materials for consideration. To be considered for the interim appointment, applicants must submit the following documents:
*A formal application ā For applications and further information, contact Kellie Phillips, Clerk of the School Board, at kellie@wcs.k12.va.us or (276) 739-3001.
*A written statement of interest outlining the reasons the applicant wishes to serve and why they believe they are qualified to serve on an interim basis.
*A detailed resume outlining the applicantās education, employment history, and other relevant qualifications.
All application materials must be directed to the Clerk of the School Board and received no later than 3:00 PM on June 30, 2026. Materials may be submitted via email or in-person.
Public Hearing and Selection Timeline To ensure transparency and community involvement, the School Board will adhere to the following timeline:
*Public Inspection of Applications: The identities of all interested candidates will be announced, and their application materials will be made available for public inspection, at or prior to the public hearing.
*Notice of Public Hearing: A formal notice of the required public hearing will be published in the local newspaper and on the divisionās website at least 10 days prior to the hearing.
*Public Hearing: The School Board will host a public hearing on July 13, 2026, to receive the views of citizens within the school division. Only candidates whose names are considered at this hearing are eligible for appointment.
*Interim Appointment: Following a mandatory 7-day waiting period after the public hearing, the School Board will meet to make the interim appointment by public motion and vote.
Candidate Qualifications Applicants must be qualified voters and residents of the Monroe Election District at the time of application and appointment. The chosen appointee will be required to subscribe to an oath of office and comply with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act and the Virginia State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act.
For applications and further information, contact Kellie Phillips, Clerk of the School Board, at kellie@wcs.k12.va.us or (276) 739-3001.
To learn more about the Washington County School Board, click here: https://www.wcs.k12.va.us/page/school-board1
The Washington County School Board announced on June 9, that it is seeking qualified applicants to fill a vacancy in the Monroe District seat, following the formal resignation of board member Dr. Lee Brannon, effective June 9, 2026. Dr. Brannon has been a strong education leader in Washington County and Southwest Virginia for decades and resigned to become the Interim Board of Supervisor Member for the Monroe District.
Pursuant to Virginia Code Ā§ 24.2-228(A), the School Board will fill the vacancy on an interim basis by appointment made by the remaining members. The interim member will serve until a qualified person is officially elected to fill the remainder of the term during a Special Election likely to be held concurrently with the next general election in November 2026. The current term for the Monroe District seat runs through December 31, 2027.
Application Process for Interim Appointment: The School Board invites qualified voters residing within the Monroe Election District to submit application materials for consideration. To be considered for the interim appointment, applicants must submit the following documents:
*A formal application ā For applications and further information, contact Kellie Phillips, Clerk of the School Board, at kellie@wcs.k12.va.us or (276) 739-3001.
*A written statement of interest outlining the reasons the applicant wishes to serve and why they believe they are qualified to serve on an interim basis.
*A detailed resume outlining the applicantās education, employment history, and other relevant qualifications.
All application materials must be directed to the Clerk of the School Board and received no later than 3:00 PM on June 30, 2026. Materials may be submitted via email or in-person.
Public Hearing and Selection Timeline To ensure transparency and community involvement, the School Board will adhere to the following timeline:
*Public Inspection of Applications: The identities of all interested candidates will be announced, and their application materials will be made available for public inspection, at or prior to the public hearing.
*Notice of Public Hearing: A formal notice of the required public hearing will be published in the local newspaper and on the divisionās website at least 10 days prior to the hearing.
*Public Hearing: The School Board will host a public hearing on July 13, 2026, to receive the views of citizens within the school division. Only candidates whose names are considered at this hearing are eligible for appointment.
*Interim Appointment: Following a mandatory 7-day waiting period after the public hearing, the School Board will meet to make the interim appointment by public motion and vote.
Candidate Qualifications Applicants must be qualified voters and residents of the Monroe Election District at the time of application and appointment. The chosen appointee will be required to subscribe to an oath of office and comply with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act and the Virginia State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act.
For applications and further information, contact Kellie Phillips, Clerk of the School Board, at kellie@wcs.k12.va.us or (276) 739-3001.
To learn more about the Washington County School Board, click here: https://www.wcs.k12.va.us/page/school-board1
šŖš Congratulations to Abingdon High School Strength & Conditioning Coach Chase Nunley on receiving national recognition from the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA)!
Coach Nunley was formally recognized at the NHSSCA National Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, after being named the NHSSCA Region 8 Coach of the Year earlier this year.
The prestigious award recognizes outstanding leadership, program development, and impact on student-athletes throughout Region 8, which includes 13 northeastern states.
As the NHSSCA Virginia State Director, Coach Nunley has been instrumental in advancing high school strength and conditioning across the Commonwealth. At Abingdon High School, he has built one of Virginia's premier strength and conditioning programs, fostering a culture of discipline, accountability, and excellence while helping develop hundreds of student-athletes.
Since the program's launch in 2018, Falcon athletes and teams have achieved remarkable success, including multiple state championships across a variety of sports. The program has also earned national recognition as an NHSSCA Program of Excellence.
Congratulations, Coach Nunley, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your continued dedication to the students and student-athletes of Washington County Public Schools!
Coach Nunley was formally recognized at the NHSSCA National Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, after being named the NHSSCA Region 8 Coach of the Year earlier this year.
The prestigious award recognizes outstanding leadership, program development, and impact on student-athletes throughout Region 8, which includes 13 northeastern states.
As the NHSSCA Virginia State Director, Coach Nunley has been instrumental in advancing high school strength and conditioning across the Commonwealth. At Abingdon High School, he has built one of Virginia's premier strength and conditioning programs, fostering a culture of discipline, accountability, and excellence while helping develop hundreds of student-athletes.
Since the program's launch in 2018, Falcon athletes and teams have achieved remarkable success, including multiple state championships across a variety of sports. The program has also earned national recognition as an NHSSCA Program of Excellence.
Congratulations, Coach Nunley, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your continued dedication to the students and student-athletes of Washington County Public Schools!
š¢ Washington County Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointments of Ms. Ashley Frye as Assistant Principal at Abingdon Elementary School and Mr. Matt Bonham as Assistant Principal at Wallace Middle School for the 2026-2027 school year.
Ms. Frye brings a strong background in elementary education and a passion for supporting student success. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Radford University and will begin her eighth year in education this fall.
Throughout her career, Ms. Frye has taught first and third grade students in Pulaski County, Smyth County, and Washington County. During her time with Washington County Public Schools, she also served as Interim Assistant Principal at High Point Elementary School, gaining valuable leadership experience while continuing her commitment to students, staff, and families.
āWe are excited to welcome Ms. Frye to our AES school community,ā said Abingdon Elementary School Principal Allyson Willis. āI look forward to working with her, as I know that she will be an asset to our building and our work with students and families.ā
āIām incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the Abingdon community in this role,ā said Ms. Frye. āI look forward to serving staff, students, and families and seeing the incredible accomplishments of Abingdon Elementary School.ā
Mr. Bonham has served Washington County Public Schools for more than 15 years and brings extensive experience in special education, instructional leadership, and student support to his new role. He earned bachelor's degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education from Virginia Intermont College and began his career with the division in 2009.
Throughout his time with Washington County Public Schools, Mr. Bonham has served as a special education teacher at Abingdon Elementary School, Valley Institute Elementary School, Abingdon High School, and John S. Battle High School. Most recently, he has taught special education courses within the English and History departments at John S. Battle High School while also serving as an Administrative Assistant.
Mr. Bonham is passionate about building positive relationships with students, families, and staff. He believes that strong partnerships between schools and families are the foundation of student success and is committed to creating learning environments where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their goals.
āIām beyond excited to begin this next chapter alongside Mr. Bonham as we step into our new roles serving the incredible students, staff, and families of Wallace Middle School,ā said Principal Stephanie Odum. āTogether, we are fully committed to supporting every student, uplifting every staff member, and partnering with every family ā because there is truly no limit to what we can achieve when we grow as one Trojan family.ā
āAfter spending my career teaching and learning alongside students in this community, I am incredibly grateful and honored for the opportunity to serve as Assistant Principal of Wallace Middle School,ā said Mr. Bonham. āI look forward to continuing to support students, families, and staff in a community that I care deeply about.ā
Please join us in congratulating Ms. Frye and Mr. Bonham on their new leadership roles. We look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make for the students, staff, and families of Washington County Public Schools.
Ms. Frye brings a strong background in elementary education and a passion for supporting student success. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Radford University and will begin her eighth year in education this fall.
Throughout her career, Ms. Frye has taught first and third grade students in Pulaski County, Smyth County, and Washington County. During her time with Washington County Public Schools, she also served as Interim Assistant Principal at High Point Elementary School, gaining valuable leadership experience while continuing her commitment to students, staff, and families.
āWe are excited to welcome Ms. Frye to our AES school community,ā said Abingdon Elementary School Principal Allyson Willis. āI look forward to working with her, as I know that she will be an asset to our building and our work with students and families.ā
āIām incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the Abingdon community in this role,ā said Ms. Frye. āI look forward to serving staff, students, and families and seeing the incredible accomplishments of Abingdon Elementary School.ā
Mr. Bonham has served Washington County Public Schools for more than 15 years and brings extensive experience in special education, instructional leadership, and student support to his new role. He earned bachelor's degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education from Virginia Intermont College and began his career with the division in 2009.
Throughout his time with Washington County Public Schools, Mr. Bonham has served as a special education teacher at Abingdon Elementary School, Valley Institute Elementary School, Abingdon High School, and John S. Battle High School. Most recently, he has taught special education courses within the English and History departments at John S. Battle High School while also serving as an Administrative Assistant.
Mr. Bonham is passionate about building positive relationships with students, families, and staff. He believes that strong partnerships between schools and families are the foundation of student success and is committed to creating learning environments where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their goals.
āIām beyond excited to begin this next chapter alongside Mr. Bonham as we step into our new roles serving the incredible students, staff, and families of Wallace Middle School,ā said Principal Stephanie Odum. āTogether, we are fully committed to supporting every student, uplifting every staff member, and partnering with every family ā because there is truly no limit to what we can achieve when we grow as one Trojan family.ā
āAfter spending my career teaching and learning alongside students in this community, I am incredibly grateful and honored for the opportunity to serve as Assistant Principal of Wallace Middle School,ā said Mr. Bonham. āI look forward to continuing to support students, families, and staff in a community that I care deeply about.ā
Please join us in congratulating Ms. Frye and Mr. Bonham on their new leadership roles. We look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make for the students, staff, and families of Washington County Public Schools.
