On Monday, June 10, 2024, the Prince George County School Board welcomed the latest graduates of the Prince George County Public Schools Leadership Cohort and the first graduates of the PGCPS Reading, Literacy, and Learning Cohort following the successful completion of the multi-year programs.
A first for Prince George County Public Schools, seven Prince George County Public Schools educators comprised the division's first group of graduates of the PGCPS Reading, Literacy, and Learning Cohort, offered through a partnership with Farmville, Virginia-based Longwood University. The program allows aspiring reading specialists to participate in a two-year program to earn a Master of Education or certificate in Reading, Literacy, and Learning.
The division partnered with Longwood University to ensure PGCPS has met the requirements of the Virginia Literacy Act, specifically ensuring the division is staffed with reading specialists to support intervention needs. The Reading, Literacy, and Learning program allows teachers to investigate research-based theories in reading and writing, apply theory to effective practice, and examine how culture impacts teaching and learning. The program focuses on producing competent teacher-leaders equipped to teach literacy across the curriculum within the parameters of research-based literacy techniques and assessment.
The following district educators completed their required coursework and assessments and graduated on May 17, 2024:
- Lynnette Breslin, Reading Interventionist, L.L. Beazley Elementary School
- Miranda Davis, Title I Reading Specialist, North Elementary School
- Brooke Fitzwater, 1st Grade Teacher, North Elementary School
- Mary Heimbuch, 1st Grade Teacher, North Elementary School
- Jessica Lee, 3rd Grade Teacher, Middle Road Elementary School
- Kathleen Temple, 4th Grade Teacher, Middle Road Elementary School
- Megan Schlimmer, Reading Interventionist, David A. Harrison Elementary School
Joining the Longwood University graduates to be recognized were the latest group of graduates of the Prince George County Public Schools Leadership Cohort, offered in partnership with The College of William & Mary School of Education. The two-year program allows aspiring PGCPS school leaders to participate in the two-year program to earn their Master of Education Degree in Educational Leadership. Upon completion of their degree, these aspiring leaders commit three years to Prince George County Public Schools and will be considered for leadership roles in our schools in the future.
Faculty and staff selected for a PGCPS Leadership Cohort are recommended by their peers and school leaders and demonstrate exceptional professional and personal characteristics as they serve the school community.
These individuals are expected to complete their studies and required coursework to graduate later this summer:
- Ashton Girolmo, Career & Technical Education Coordinator, Prince George High School
- Jennah Hull, Science Teacher, J.E.J. Moore Middle School
- Tonya Humphrey, Gifted Teacher, J.E.J. Moore Middle School
- Wade Kliebenstein, Coordinator of Assessment & Accountability, Prince George County Public Schools
- Britney Sammler, Science Teacher, J.E.J. Moore Middle School
- Carrie Woodlief, Reading Interventionist, Middle Road Elementary School
- Stephen York, Information Technology Resource Teacher, J.E.J. Moore Middle School
As the division entered the 2020s, PGCPS renewed its commitment to supporting aspiring school leaders. As part of the district's 2022-27 Comprehensive Plan, the school division seeks to support staff interests and long-term career goals through a three-pronged method:
- Creating systems of procedures for staff to seek support for career advancement,
- Facilitating additional career paths and advancement opportunities through specialized learning and certifications and
- Exploring options to provide staff with additional opportunities for professional learning, sponsorship of activities, and team collaboration.
Initiatives like the PGCPS Reading, Literacy, and Learning Cohort and the Prince George County Public Schools Leadership Cohort allow the district's staff the opportunity to enhance their skills, grow as educators and leaders, and continue to serve the children of Prince George County.
To read Prince George County Public Schools' 2022-27 Comprehensive Plan, click HERE.