BY TED SHOCKLEY, Eastern Shore Post —
Accomack County’s new superintendent has a diverse background — she holds an associate degree in farm and ranch management, has been a principal or assistant principal in elementary, middle, and high schools, and has led two school systems to gains in test scores.
Gennifer Miller, who was hired by unanimous vote in April by the Accomack County School Board and begins work June 1, said she was “incredibly excited” be coming to be Accomack County.
“I’m here to listen, learn, and lead, and I truly believe that together we can build on the district’s strengths and create even more opportunities for every child to succeed.”
Miller, 49, now serves as assistant superintendent of Buena Vista City Public Schools. He and her husband have one daughter who is a certified elementary teacher.
Accomack County received 18 applications for the position, School Board Chairwoman Janet Martin Turner said.
Miller will oversee more than 800 total full-time employees in 11 schools with an enrollment of about 4,500 students.
Miller said her parents were teachers and she “saw firsthand how a great teacher and a strong school can change the trajectory of someone’s life.”
After earning her associate degree, Miller earned a bachelor’s degree in business management, a master’s degree in special education and elementary education, and a doctorate in educational leadership.
Miller served as a special education teacher and homebound teacher before becoming a school administrator “because I realized I could shape not just one classroom, but an entire system that supports students, empowers educators, and strengthens communities,” she said.
While at Buena Vista City Public Schools, she led initiatives that moved the school system from a state academic ranking of 82nd to 38th in three years.
She said she is dedicated to professional development for educators and “ensuring they are equiped to inspire and challenge every student.”
In Accomack County, Miller said she has been impressed by the passion and pride the community has in its school system.
“This community represents exactly what drew me to education in the first place — a deep commitment to its students, strong community values, and a desire to grow and improve together,” she said.
“I’m here because I believe every child deserves the chance to thrive and education is the key that unlocks that potential.”
