WILLIAMSBURG — Olwen Herron, superintendent of Williamsburg James City County Schools, was named Region 2 Superintendent of the Year by the Virginia Association of School Superintendents, the division announced Wednesday.
“I am humbled to receive this recognition and thank my peers for selecting me for this honor,” Herron said. “I’m proud to serve the WJCC Schools community and appreciate the collective work of our staff, students, and community that this recognition represents.”
According to WJCC Schools, Herron is a “people-focused leader and a champion for WJCC Schools students and staff.” Through Teacher Forum and Support Employee Forum, staff are empowered to give input on division initiatives and maintain open lines of direct communication with the superintendent.
Under her leadership, two new mentoring programs were developed and deployed to support rookie and new-to-WJCC educators, as well as novice special education teachers, which WJCC Schools said is key in attracting and retaining top talent.
Herron’s student-centered approach is evidenced through her long-standing and passionate advocacy for student outcomes, the division said. To expand access to its youngest students, WJCC Schools is pursuing the construction of two new dedicated pre-K spaces. Regular, sustained investment in technology ensures students have access to the most up-to-date resources., it added, and the 2023 return of the in-person Exceptional Games provides access and inclusion to celebrate the accomplishments of special education students.
“Dr. Herron has established a learning environment centered on student achievement, staff success, and community engagement, and we are thrilled that her service to our community has been recognized,” said Sarah Ortego, WJCC Schools School Board Chair. “We appreciate her integrity, commitment, and dedicated focus to rigorous instruction, and proven leadership.”
Herron has nearly 40 years of public education experience in two countries and three states and has served in various instructional and leadership roles at the building and central office levels. Herron was named Superintendent of WJCC Schools in 2017.
The Virginia Department of Education’s Region 2 is made up of 15 school divisions, including all of Hampton Roads. All total, there are eight regions in the Commonwealth. Herron will now be considered for Virginia Superintendent of the Year.
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