Ward Elementary’s Reich slated to take Ibraham reins

Published 12:07 am Thursday, June 27, 2024

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CLEMMONS — Former Ward Elementary Assistant Principal N-Kenga Reich was announced as the new principal of Ibraham Elementary School in a release from the county school district revealing a spate of new hires. 

Reich began her career with Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools in 2014 as a teacher at  Konnoak Elementary. After moving to Cook Literacy Model School she served at Ashley Academy as an instructional facilitator.

Reich earned her bachelor’s degree from Winston-Salem State University. She earned a master’s degree in education from Salem College, and a master’s degree in educational leadership from High Point University where she also completed a post-master’s certification in educational leadership and organizational development. Additionally, she holds five professional teaching licensures from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and is currently pursuing her doctoral degree at High Point University.

Reich was among multiple names approved by the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education to become new principals including: David Friedman, Hanes Magnet Middle School; Jessica Gillespie-Johnson, Jefferson Middle School.

Johnathan Sidden and Walter Johnson will jointly lead Parkland High School as co-principals. The leadership at Parkland is a collaborative model where both principals will  share equal opportunities in leadership at the school.  

“Parkland High School is on a path toward excellence and their unique needs call for a unique response,” Superintendent Tricia McManus said. “A co-principal model will capitalize on the strengths and talents of two leaders who will work closely to ensure that every student feels a sense of belonging and is pushed to achieve at the highest levels, every staff member has the resources and support needed to thrive as educational professionals, and the community is embraced as partners in the work. Mustang pride is alive in our community and will continue to be strengthened through this leadership model.”  

Finally, McManus will restructure her cabinet by elevating Dr. Barnes  Jones from assistant superintendent of talent development and school transformation to chief of schools. As chief of schools, Barnes-Jones will supervise and support the work of area superintendents who directly supervise and support school principals. She will continue to oversee and support the development of all leaders, teachers and staff as well as school transformation efforts. Her current position will not be reposted — the position will be eliminated.  

“This change will ensure greater alignment of all leadership development and school transformation efforts and targeted support for those responsible for working directly with school leaders to execute the strategies in our district strategic plan,” said McManus. 

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Fabby Williams will continue overseeing several district divisions and departments with an additional focus on community relations, networking and engagement efforts.