Waynesboro – November 11, 2025 (For immediate release): Waynesboro Public Schools is proud to announce the appointment of Rachel Henry as Assistant Principal of Westwood Hills Elementary School, effective Monday, November 17, 2025. This appointment reflects the division’s continued commitment to cultivating leadership excellence and fostering a supportive, inclusive learning environment.
Mrs. Henry brings more than two decades of experience in education, including service as a classroom teacher, instructional support specialist, and most recently as the Wayne Hills Preschool Center Intervention Specialist. In that role, she has led professional development, supported Tier 1 classroom instruction, coordinated kindergarten readiness and transition efforts, and guided data- informed interventions aligned to the Virginia Tiered System of Supports (VTSS). She is known for strong relationships with students, families, and staff; instructional leadership; and a collaborative, student-centered approach.
Her prior experience includes classroom teaching at William Perry Elementary School and earlier roles in Texas public schools. Mrs. Henry holds an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from James Madison University and a B.S. in Elementary Education from Friends University. She is a past WPS Teacher of the Year (2015) honoree. Colleagues and supervisors consistently highlight her instructional expertise, data literacy, creativity, and ability to build positive school culture.
“Rachel’s record of instructional leadership and her passion for helping every child thrive make her an excellent fit for Westwood Hills,” said Dr. Jeffrey Cassell, Superintendent. “Her experience supporting teachers, partnering with families, and using data to drive improvement will strengthen our school community.”
Principal Greg Harris welcomed the appointment, noting: “Rachel brings energy, empathy, and a solutions-oriented mindset. She’s respected by colleagues and loved by students. She is exactly the kind of leader who helps a school grow.”
Mrs. Henry shared her enthusiasm for the new role: “I’m honored to join the Westwood Hills team. I look forward to partnering with our students, families, and staff to support engaging instruction, positive relationships, and a culture where every learner can succeed.”
The Waynesboro School Board welcomes Mrs. Henry to her new role and looks forward to the positive impact she will continue to make in the lives of students, staff, and families.