The Shadow
LOW MOOR, Va. (VR) – The Alleghany Highlands School Board elected new leadership and approved a significant policy change during its reorganization meeting Tuesday, marking a transition in governance as the district prepares for the upcoming school year.
Jonathan Arritt was elected as the new board chairman, with John Littleton selected as vice chairman. The leadership change comes as the board approved a policy revision to move future reorganization meetings from July to January, aligning the process with the school calendar year. “This reorganization timeline will better serve our district by allowing leadership appointments to last a full school year,” said Superintendent Kim Halterman, who served as temporary chair during the transition process. The policy change means the current leadership appointments will serve approximately six months until the board reorganizes again in January 2026. Future reorganizations will occur annually in January rather than July.
Before the reorganization, the board recognized Sarai Warrick, the Virginia College Advising Corps advisor assigned to Alleghany High School, and who was named advisor of the year statewide. Warrick, a Washington and Lee University graduate, has worked with students since January 2024, helping them navigate college applications, scholarships, and post-graduation planning. “She has been a very valuable asset to our students and staff,” said Superintendent Halterman during the recognition ceremony. Two students, Meredith Mentor and Mason Hall, shared testimonials about Warrick’s impact on their educational journeys. Warrick, who will pursue a master’s in public policy at the University of Virginia, has also been nominated for the Governor’s Community Service Award.
The board also recognized Mountain View Elementary Principal Mallory Thompson for her leadership during a recent fire incident at the school. Thompson described what took place during the fire incident and praised the response from all responders, including fire departments and maintenance crews who worked to suppress the fire and manage cleanup efforts. “I want to thank the community for their support during this challenging time,” Thompson said, expressing gratitude to various teams for their above-and-beyond efforts.
Following the leadership elections, the board made several key appointments for the 2025-2026 school year. Karen Willis was reappointed as clerk, with Fred Vaughan serving as deputy clerk. Danielle Morgan was appointed as the representative to the Governor’s School, with Mr. Umstead as alternate. John Littleton and Jay Woodson were named representatives to the Administrative Budget Committee, while Littleton will serve as representative to the Virginia School Board Association convention with Woodson as alternate. The board approved various policies and procedures, including the VSBA code of conduct, emphasizing the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability within the school board structure.
During the school board members’ closing comments, community members addressed various concerns, including character education and bullying prevention within schools. Board members emphasized the need for continued community engagement and support for educational initiatives. “We appreciate the service of each member of the school board and the work they do for our students,” Halterman said, acknowledging both outgoing and
incoming leadership.
The board approved the 2025-2026 meeting calendar and various consent agenda items, including overnight and out-of-state trips for students. Policy revisions were also approved to ensure alignment with state requirements and best practices. The newly elected leadership faces several ongoing challenges, including addressing air quality concerns at Covington Middle School, managing budget constraints, and supporting staff retention efforts. Recent board meetings have included discussions about employee compensation, with approvals for bus driver bonuses and considerations for additional staff support.
Board members emphasized the importance of supporting teachers and improving educational outcomes for students across the district. The reorganization comes at a time when the district is working to strengthen community relationships and address various operational challenges. “Our focus remains on providing the best possible education for our students while maintaining fiscal responsibility,” Arritt said following his election as chairman.
The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for later this month, where members will continue addressing ongoing district business and planning for the upcoming school year.
The January reorganization timeline will take effect beginning in 2026, allowing for more consistent leadership terms aligned with the academic calendar.
The Alleghany Highlands School District serves students across multiple communities in the region, with ongoing efforts to enhance educational opportunities and maintain strong community partnerships.
