Jefferson County Schools is proud to announce the appointment of Sybil Terry as the new principal of Blue Ridge Elementary School (BRE). With 21 years of administrative experience and a deep commitment to nurturing a positive community, Terry steps into her new role ready to lead and listen.
Terry’s top priorities for year one include enhancing student achievement and continuing to grow and nurture the sense of community at BRE. Hoping to draw on her innate ability to connect with people through compassion, empathy, and understanding, she is confident that BRE’s staff, students, and families can all work together toward these goals. She emphasizes her open-door policy to ensure that all questions and concerns are heard.
"I'm anticipating building positive relationships with every parent, student, and staff member that walks through that door," she said.
Following in the footsteps of her late mother, a longtime principal, Terry brings a rich legacy of educational leadership to BRE. Before becoming an administrator, Terry worked as a speech therapist at the elementary school level, giving her a unique perspective on the developmental stages of young learners. Her experience as a middle school administrator for 21 years in Virginia also equips her to understand the needs of fourth and fifth-grade students as they transition to middle school.
"Working in a middle school, you forget how precious those early years are," she said. "I’m excited to go back to where it all begins."
Terry recently relocated to Charles Town and has eagerly embraced her new home and school community. She is delighted by the warm welcome she's received from new neighbors and colleagues alike. Her enthusiasm for her new role is also palpable as she looks forward to meeting her staff. She noted how important it is to build morale and earn their trust.
"I want them to know we’re on this journey together," she said. "I want our work to be a collaborative effort.
Jefferson County Schools Superintendent Chuck Bishop acknowledged the recent uncertainty surrounding the BRE community and expressed his confidence in Terry’s leadership abilities.
"We were committed to finding an experienced leader who has worked with students from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of ability levels. I feel confident that Ms. Terry is that leader,” said Dr. Bishop. “She brings a fresh perspective to the school to ensure its students receive the best opportunities possible. I believe she is with us for the long haul and is committed to gaining the trust of the students, staff, and families of Blue Ridge."
As she prepares to step into her new role, Terry emphasizes how proud she is to be the new principal at BRE.
"I have so many ideas rolling around in my head, and I’m excited to learn more about the wonderful things going on at Blue Ridge and continue to grow on that greatness," she said. "Let's get started!"