Recognizing school leaders who advance academic excellence through effective administration and instructional guidance, Education Insider proudly presents the Top 10 School Principals in Virginia 2026. These professionals oversee academic programs, support teacher development and coordinate school operations while aligning institutional priorities with student learning needs. Their leadership helps schools across Virginia strengthen instructional quality and encourage collaboration, enabling educational institutions to address evolving academic expectations while maintaining consistent teaching standards and supporting student achievement.
Top 10 School Principals in Virginia - 2026
Cindy Klimaitis
Principal, Prince William County Public Schools
Now principal of Marshall Elementary School, Dr. Cindy Klimaitis spent 16 years teaching, including in special education and as a reading specialist, before moving into school administration. Her academic background includes elementary education, curriculum and instruction, and educational leadership.
Jenn Sagendorf
Principal, Chesapeake Public Schools
Drawing on experience in elementary and middle school administration, classroom teaching and coaching, Jenn Sagendorf, Ph.D., focuses on data-driven school improvement, school culture and building staff capacity. She is a principal with Chesapeake Public Schools.
Janet Wright-Davis
School Principal, Suffolk Public Schools
A principal with Suffolk Public Schools, Janet Wright-Davis, Ed.D., has expertise in English as a Second Language, gifted education, K-12 education and literacy. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration.
Elizabeth Galbreath
School Principal, Newport News Public Schools
Before becoming principal at Newport News Public Schools, Elizabeth Galbreath served as assistant principal and lead teacher. Her doctorate in educational leadership from Virginia Tech focused on how mentoring affects novice principals’ identity, well-being and capacity.
Jessica Tibbs
Principal, Prince Edward County Public Schools
At Prince Edward County High School, Jessica Tibbs brings 20 years in education to her role as principal. Her background includes instructional leadership, coaching, classroom management and team building, along with earlier student success coordinator and assistant principal roles.
Elif Kalemdaroglu-Wheeler
Principal, Cumberland County Public Schools
With more than 25 years in education, Dr. Elif Kalemdaroglu-Wheeler leads Cumberland High School in Virginia. Her teaching and administrative work spans curriculum development, virtual instruction and behavioral support; she also holds a Master of Jurisprudence.
David Peck
Principal, Spotsylvania County Public Schools
After six years as a principal in Richmond City and earlier service as an assistant principal in Prince William County, David Peck became principal in Spotsylvania County Public Schools. He emphasizes teacher development, research-based instruction and educational technology.
Crystal Dixon
Principal, Henry County Public Schools
Since 2021, Crystal Dixon has served as principal at Henry County Public Schools, following more than eight years in school administration. Her work focuses on instructional strategy, collaboration and a supportive learning environment for students and educators.
Michael Pierce
Principal, Powhatan County Public Schools
A former principal of James H. Cary Intermediate School, Michael Pierce now leads Powhatan High School. His background combines 11 years in public education with 10 years of U.S. Army service and roles as a teacher, coach and administrator.
