MACHIPONGO, VA- Northampton County Public Schools (NCPS) proudly announces new administrative leadership across the division, bringing experienced educators and dedicated leaders to Northampton High School and Central Office for the 2026-2027 school year.
DIRECTOR OF STUDENT SERVICES
Dr. Kati Smith has been named the new Director of Student Services. Based at the Central Office, Dr. Smith will oversee divisionwide programs and initiatives designed to support the holistic needs of every student. Dr. Smith comes to NCPS with over two decades of service in public education, having served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles. Most recently serving as an early learning principal and previously provided division-level leadership in gifted education and specialized student programming. Her background reflects a strong track record of instructional leadership focused on designing inclusive, high-quality learning environments and empowering educators with tailored strategies that drive academic growth and success for all learners.
"I am excited to join such a welcoming community here on the Eastern Shore. In my new role, I look forward to connecting with students, staff, and families and building positive relationships through the Student Services Department. Our department is proud to support special education, preschool, and gifted learners."
PRINCIPAL: NORTHAMPTON HIGH SCHOOL
Justin Wheeler has been appointed as the new Principal of Northampton High School after previously serving as Principal of Northampton Middle School. Spanning 14 years in public education, Mr. Wheeler’s career includes roles as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and school leader. He brings a focused, straightforward approach grounded in genuine care for students, consistently driving academic growth and empowering students to achieve their full potential.
"It is an honor to lead Northampton High School and continue serving the community that I have called home since 2012,” shared Mr. Wheeler. “I look forward to building on the school's traditions while preparing every student for success through employment, enrollment, or enlistment. NHS has tremendous potential, and I am excited to work alongside our students, staff, families, and community to create a culture of high expectations, accountability, and opportunity for every Yellow Jacket."
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: NORTHAMPTON HIGH SCHOOL
Courtney Kreft joins NCPS as an Assistant Principal at Northampton High School. A retired U.S. Army veteran with 21 years of distinguished service overseeing global animal healthcare operations. Following her military career, she transitioned to education, where she has spent more than a decade of experience in secondary education serving as a science educator and school leader. Ms. Kreft is passionate about fostering academic excellence, supporting teacher growth through collaborative leadership, and creating a positive, student-centered school culture where every learner has the opportunity to succeed.
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: NORTHAMPTON HIGH SCHOOL
Vernon Woodard joins Northampton High School as an Assistant Principal, bringing 14 years of experience in public education. Having served as a classroom teacher before transitioning into school administration in 2025, Mr. Woodard has developed a strong foundation in instructional leadership, student engagement, and school improvement. He is committed to supporting academic excellence, fostering positive relationships with students and staff, and working collaboratively to build a safe, inclusive, and high-performing school community.
"It is an exciting time for Northampton County Public Schools as we introduce our new administrative leadership team," shared Superintendent Dr. Lisa Martin. "Mr. Wheeler, Ms. Kreft, Mr. Woodard, and Dr. Smith each bring proven leadership and instructional expertise to our division. Together, they will play a key role in fostering supportive, high-quality learning environments where every student can thrive."
About Northampton County Public Schools: Located at the southern tip of Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Northampton County Public Schools (NCPS) is a PreK-12 school division dedicated to providing a high-quality, inclusive education that reflects our community’s values. By balancing innovation with a supportive, small-school atmosphere, NCPS strives to prepare every learner to be a productive, responsible, and proud citizen. The division is committed to elevating instructional quality and expanding student support services to foster community pride and to ensure all students are ready for enrollment, employment, or enlistment in an ever-changing global society.
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