Augusta County Public Schools

Congratulations to our ACPS Support Staff Recipients for the month of March!
Emily Sprouse - Craigsville Elementary School, Reading Aide
Violet Borman - Stewart Middle School, Custodian
Kim Coffey - Stuarts Draft High School, Bookkeeper

SUPERVISOR ANNOUNCEMENT

ACPS is proud to announce the appointment of Mrs. Kara Lafon as Supervisor of Secondary Math/Science and Middle School Intervention for Augusta County Public Schools effective July 1, 2026. For 22 years, Mrs. Lafon has served both Harrisonburg City and Augusta County Public Schools as a Math and Science Teacher, Department Chair, and Secondary Instructional Coach. She has also served as the Assistant Principal of Riverheads Middle School since the school opened in 2024.

Mrs. Lafon earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Virginia Tech and completed post baccalaureate coursework in Middle Education at James Madison University. She would later earn a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Virginia Tech. In addition to serving on local and state curriculum teams, she has presented to her local and regional colleagues. Additionally, she was named Teacher of the Year at Wilson Middle School in 2011 and at Beverley Manor Middle School in both 2016 and 2021.

“Mrs. Lafon has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in instruction and leadership. She has consistently implemented innovative practices and has been a model teacher across the division. She is a trusted and effective leader, and has demonstrated exceptional skill in supporting adult learners. She has also helped develop and lead professional learning focused on instructional improvement, data-informed decision-making, and vertical alignment of curriculum. I am excited for her to join the Instructional Team”, says Dr. Sarah Melton, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction.

Congratulations, Mrs. Lafon!

PRINCIPAL ANNOUNCEMENT

ACPS is proud to announce the appointment of Mrs. Fonda Morris as Principal of Fort Defiance High School effective July 1, 2026. For 36 years, Mrs. Morris has faithfully served Augusta County Schools as an elementary teacher, high school volleyball and basketball coach, elementary assistant principal, and elementary principal. For the past eleven years, she has served the Fort community as Principal at Clymore Elementary and Stewart Middle Schools.

After graduating from Fort Defiance High School, Mrs. Morris attended Bridgewater College earning a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She would later earn a Master’s degree in Educational Supervision and Leadership from the University of Tennessee. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her dedication to the profession and exemplary service to the school division. In 2023 she was named a Dawbarn Award recipient.

“Mrs. Morris is well-known for the positive relationships she builds with staff, students, families and the community. She has high expectations and works hard to make a difference in the lives of everyone she serves. Her strong instructional leadership, compassion for students, and commitment to the Fort community will have a lasting impact on Fort Defiance High School”, says Dr. Kelly Troxell, Division Superintendent.

Congratulations, Mrs. Morris!

High School Musical Season isn't over yet! Mark your calendars to come see Annie at Riverheads High School with showings on Friday, April 24th at 7:00 PM and Saturday, April 25th at 2:00 PM or at 7:00 PM.

One of our incredible school nurses took this picture coming into Cassell. We are so lucky to have such an incredible, beautiful school to call home!
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