New principal for Haydon Elementary in Manassas

The School Board of the City of Manassas has named Karis J. Brooks as the new principal of Haydon Elementary School. The appointment was made during the School Board’s regular meeting on July 17.  She will begin her new assignment on July 30.

A native of Newport News, Brooks has worked in public school education for nearly 21 years.  She is currently the assistant principal at Lowes Island Elementary School in Loudoun County, a position she has held for the last five years.

“Mrs. Brooks has a passion for student success,” said Kevin Newman, superintendent of schools. “She has solid experience working with diverse populations and has a strong background in literacy education.  She has been commended for her ability to form positive connections with students and families, which will certainly benefit the Haydon community.”

Brooks began her career with Newport News Public Schools where she worked for 13 years as a classroom teacher, Reading Recovery Teacher®, reading specialist, adult education teacher and administrator, and as an instructor for the General Education Development (GED) and English for Second Language Learners (ESL) programs.

Prior to serving in administrative leadership for Loudoun County, Brooks was the director of reading and community outreach for Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools in Elizabeth City, NC.  Brooks has also worked for the Virginia Adult Learning Resource Center, based in Richmond, as a staff trainer, curriculum writer, and conference presenter. 
 
Brooks earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from North Carolina Central University, a master’s degree in elementary, middle, and secondary school teaching (with an emphasis in reading, language, and literacy) from the College of William & Mary, and an educational specialist degree in educational leadership and administration from the George Washington University.  Brooks also holds licenses in PreK-12 administration and supervision, PreK-3 early/primary education, elementary grades 3-6 and reading specialist.

Haydon is one of five elementary schools in the City of Manassas and serves approximately 575 students in grades pre-k through fourth.