NEWS RELEASE
(ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Virginia)—At its February 27, 2025, meeting, the Albemarle County School Board appointed Rick Vrhovac as principal of Henley Middle School, effective immediately. Vrhovac has served as substitute principal throughout the current school year and will continue as principal through the 2025-26 school year. Then, at its March 13 meeting, the board appointed Christie Isaiah as principal of Woodbrook Elementary School, also effective immediately. Isaiah has been serving as interim principal at Woodbrook since the start of the school year.
Rick Vrhovac
Vrhovac brings extensive leadership experience to Henley, having previously served as principal at both Lakeside Middle School and Monticello High School. His background provides valuable continuity for the school community as he continues in the role. In a message to families on February 28, Superintendent Dr. Matthew Haas praised Vrhovac’s leadership, noting that he has “built strong relationships with students, staff, and families, reinforcing Henley’s collaborative and caring culture.” Haas added that the division is grateful for Vrhovac’s continued leadership and looks forward to another great year together.
“I have had a wonderful experience connecting with the Henley community, and I am thrilled to continue to serve students, families, and staff during the upcoming school year,” Vrhovac said.
The school division plans to begin the search for a new principal for Henley for the 2026-27 school year in late winter 2025-26.
Christie Isaiah
Following a rigorous search process that included a community survey, a diverse hiring committee representing the Woodbrook community recommended Isaiah for the role of Woodbrook’s principal. The superintendent endorsed the committee’s selection, and the school board approved her appointment.
In an announcement last night to the Woodbrook community, Assistant Superintendent Clare Keiser thanked the staff and community members who participated in the hiring process—whether by responding to the community survey, contributing interview questions, or serving on the interview committee. “Your insights,” Keiser said, “proved valuable as we worked to make a selection that best aligns with your hopes for the school.”
Keiser added, “We are confident that under her leadership, Woodbrook will continue to thrive. I know she is eager to embark on this journey alongside each of you.”
Isaiah’s official appointment as principal comes after serving the Woodbrook community since 2022, first as assistant principal and most recently as interim principal. She brings 16 years of school leadership experience at the elementary and middle school levels in both Charlottesville City Schools and Albemarle County Public Schools, along with a deep commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for students and staff.
“I hold the caring, compassionate, and kind Woodbrook community close to my heart, and I am overjoyed to continue this journey with students, families, and staff into the next school year,” Isaiah said.
Vrhovac and Isaiah’s appointments reflect the division’s commitment to strong, student-centered leadership. With their experience and dedication, both principals will continue fostering environments where students, staff, and families can thrive.
CONTACT: Dr. Helen T. Dunn, Public Affairs and Strategic Communications Officer
PHONE: 434-249-8379