NEWS RELEASE
(ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Virginia)—Albemarle County Public Schools (ACPS) is pleased to announce the appointments of two experienced school leaders to principal positions at elementary schools within the division. Nancy McCullen has been named the next principal of Baker-Butler Elementary School, effective July 1, 2025. Dr. Seth Kennard has been named the inaugural principal of Mountain View Upper Elementary School, which is set to open in August 2026.
“We are fortunate to have two outstanding leaders stepping into these roles at a time of growth and opportunity for our division,” said Dr. Matthew Haas, Superintendent of Albemarle County Public Schools. “Their experience and commitment to our students, staff, and families will help strengthen two vibrant school communities and ensure a smooth path forward for everyone involved.”
Nancy McCullen Appointed Principal of Baker-Butler Elementary School
Nancy McCullen
Nancy McCullen currently serves as principal of Red Hill Elementary School, where she has led the school since 2018. During her tenure, McCullen has championed student-centered learning, guided measurable academic growth in reading and math, and fostered a strong culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and community engagement. Under her leadership, Red Hill has implemented Responsive Classroom practices, expanded outdoor learning opportunities, and seen year-over-year improvements on state and division assessments.
Prior to her role at Red Hill, McCullen served as assistant principal at Brownsville Elementary and held division-level roles as an instructional coach and new teacher mentor. She began her career as a classroom teacher at Greer Elementary. Her experience spans more than 30 years in education, with deep roots in Albemarle County and a demonstrated commitment to instructional leadership and equity.
“I’m honored to be joining a school with such a strong tradition of academic excellence and family engagement,” McCullen said. “I look forward to listening, learning, and working in partnership with the Baker-Butler community to ensure every student continues to thrive.”
McCullen will begin her role at Baker-Butler on July 1, 2025. A search process for Red Hill Elementary School’s next principal will begin immediately, with opportunities for staff and families to provide input.
Dr. Seth Kennard to Lead New Mountain View Upper Elementary School
Dr. Seth Kennard
Dr. Seth Kennard, currently principal of Mountain View Elementary School, has been appointed principal of the new Mountain View Upper Elementary School, which will serve students in grades 3 through 5 beginning in the 2026-27 school year. Kennard will continue to serve as principal of Mountain View Elementary through the 2025-26 school year to ensure a smooth transition as the school expands into two campuses.
The new Mountain View Upper Elementary School is currently under construction within the Mountain View attendance area, behind the Monticello Fire Rescue Station (ACFR Station 11) and across from Monticello High School. The school is designed to help address long-term capacity needs in the division’s southern feeder pattern. Beginning in fall 2026, Mountain View will operate as two schools across two buildings, continuing to serve students and families as one unified community. Mountain View Primary School will serve students in Pre-K through grade 2, while Mountain View Upper Elementary School will serve students in grades 3 through 5.
A search process for the Mountain View Primary School principal will begin during the winter of the 2025-26 school year. As planning continues, the division’s Human Resources team will collaborate with current Mountain View staff to ensure staffing assignments for each school reflect both the strengths of the team and the needs of the community.
Kennard joined ACPS in 2019 as principal of Baker-Butler Elementary. He became principal of Mountain View Elementary in 2023. During his time in Albemarle County, Kennard has helped lead division-wide improvements to safety protocols, implemented systems that support academic progress, and cultivated a strong culture of care and connection. Before joining ACPS, he was named Principal of the Year by Alexandria City Public Schools and received The Washington Post’s Distinguished Educational Leadership Award.
“I am honored to continue to partner with the Mountain View community in this new role and to build on the incredible work our staff and families have done together,” said Kennard. “I look forward to working closely with the entire school community to ensure that students are engaged, challenged, and supported throughout their entire elementary school journey with us.”
“Both Nancy and Seth are deeply dedicated leaders who bring a wealth of experience, compassion, and vision to their work,” said Dr. Clare Keiser, Assistant Superintendent for Organizational Development. “Their commitment to inclusive, student-centered practices and strong partnerships with families makes them exceptional fits for these roles. We are thrilled to support them as they begin these exciting new chapters.”
CONTACT: Jennifer A. Butler, Deputy Public Affairs and Strategic Communications Officer
PHONE: 434-260-4634