Copyright Augusta Free Press
While the community continues to process an alleged incident involving a student with a “kill list” at Westwood Hills Elementary, Waynesboro Public Schools has turned the page, announcing a new assistant principal. The position is being filled by Rachel Henry, who is no stranger to the school system, having served at William Perry Elementary School, and most recently, as the Wayne Hills Preschool Center intervention specialist. The appointment is effective on Monday, Nov. 17. Henry brings more than two decades of experience in education, including service as a classroom teacher. Henry holds an M.Ed. in educational leadership from James Madison University and a B.S. in elementary education from Friends University. She was a teacher of the year honoree in WPS in 2015. “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, WPS superintendent. “Her experience supporting teachers, partnering with families, and using data to drive improvement will strengthen our school community.” Principal Greg Harris said Henry is the kind of leader who should help the school grow. “Rachel brings energy, empathy, and a solutions-oriented mindset. She’s respected by colleagues and loved by students,” Harris said. Westwood Hills Elementary School was in the headlines earlier this week after a student was reported to have a notebook with what one parent called a “kill list.” ICYMI Waynesboro: Elementary school student allegedly had notebook with kill list “This afternoon our staff was made aware of a student notebook containing threats towards other students,” Harris said in a statement Monday. “Immediately our staff began the threat assessment process and are working with the families of students that wrote the note to provide the support they need. “The safety of our students is of utmost importance and when students behave this way we follow our procedures and provide appropriate consequences. As always, our staff is here to support you and answer any questions you may have.” Waynesboro Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Ryan Barber told AFP the incident was a “student disciplinary matter,” and the school system had no further comment. Related stories
