Buena V ista C ity P ublic Schools has completed a full leadership transition ahead of the upcoming school year, with both its top administrative roles now filled.
Dr. Heather Gentry-Ault, most recently Director of Instruction in Amelia County, will assume the role of sup er i ntendent on July 1 following the retirement of Dr. Tony Francis. Gentry-Ault brings nearly 25 years of experience in Virginia public education, including work as a teacher, principal, and human resources director.
Joining her as assistant superintendent of instruction will be Dr. Brenda Walton, formerly the principal of F.W. Kling Elementary School, who was tapped for her new position by the School Board last week. Walton is well known within the Buena Vista school community and brings a strong foundation of local leadership to the role.
In the “Principal’s Message” that has been posted on the Kling website, Walton described her work as driven by a “passion and love for children” and emphasized the importance of character education, community collaboration, and well-rounded instruction. “It is evident that the Buena Vista community page 2 of students, parents, staff and administrators are a very special group of individuals,” she wrote.
WALTON
The appointment fills a key vacancy left by former Assistant Superintendent Gennifer Miller, who stepped down in April to become superintendent of Accomack County Public Schools. She began her new role there on June 1.
Francis, who hired Miller at the start of his tenure, confirmed earlier this month that it would be up to Gentry-Ault and the school board to select her replacement. With Walton now stepping into that position, the division’s leadership is fully staffed ahead of the new school year. Among the first personnel-related tasks will be to hire a new principal for Kling.
Francis said he’s proud of the work done during his time as superintendent and is looking forward to retirement. “It’s a good feeling to see the division in capable hands,” he said.
