Assistant principal held interim role since Harlow’s suspension in September
By Randy Arrington
SHENANDOAH, Jan. 19 — On Friday evening, Page County Public Schools issued a press release removing “interim” from the role that Jodi Foltz plays at Shenandoah Elementary. The former assistant principal who was named interim principal back in mid-September, is now officially the new principal of Shenandoah Elementary.
“I am incredibly honored to take on the role of principal at Shenandoah Elementary, a place that holds a profoundly special space in my heart,” Foltz stated. “Shenandoah isn’t merely a school; it’s intricately woven into the fabric of my life. As both an alum and now a parent, my roots here run deep. Within these walls, I’ve shared laughter, acquired knowledge, and undergone personal growth. Now, it’s a genuine privilege to contribute to the very place that has played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. This isn’t just a job for me; it’s a calling.”
Foltz holds a Masters of Education in Educational Leadership, a Masters in Learning and Technology and a Bachelor of Arts degree, all from Western Governors University. During her tenure in Page County, she has served as an elementary classroom teacher, assistant principal and interim principal.
“Mrs. Foltz brings a variety of experiences to the position and her skills will help Shenandoah Elementary move forward to ensure that we continue to provide the very best experience to students, staff, and families,” reads the press release issued by PCPS and signed by Dr. Antonia Fox, superintendent of schools.
The school division is currently accepting applications for the assistant principal position at Shenandoah
Elementary. PCPS stated a desire to “have that position filled as soon as possible.” Central Office staff will
continue to support Shenandoah Elementary school until that position is filled.
On Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, both former principal Corey Harlow and instructional assistant Chelsea Atkinson were placed on paid administrative leave. For about 10 weeks, school officials conducted an investigation into allegations against the two employees for improper conduct.
The school board voted on Monday, Nov. 27 to terminate the employment contracts of both Harlow and Atkinson. Dr. Fox stated in a reply to PVN that “neither employee will be returning to Shenandoah or PCPS.”
Both employees were notified on Wednesday, Nov. 29, according to Dr. Fox, and Central Office administration met with the Shenandoah Elementary staff that same day to discuss the next steps in the process. A survey was conducted to gain community input into qualities desired in the next principal.
To learn more about Page County Public Schools,
visit https://www.pagecounty.k12.va.us/o/pcps
•••
RELATED ARTICLES
Shenandoah Elementary to name new principal by January
Shenandoah Elementary still in limbo as principal, instructional assistant remain suspended
Page County Public Schools kick off ’23-’24 school year with momentum
‘Renewed purpose’ theme of 2023 Convocation for school employees
What did Harlow and Atkinson do? Was crime part of it?