The Shadow
LOW MOOR — The Alleghany Highlands School Board has approved key administrative appointments as part of a carefully planned strategy to ensure strong leadership and continuity across the school division in preparation for some upcoming retirements. In addition to finalizing two previously interim roles, the board appointed two central office leaders as part of its strategic planning efforts.
Dwayne Ross has been named chief of teaching, learning and support. Currently serving as director of secondary instruction, Ross will oversee instructional functions and help streamline K-12 academic programming across the division. He was selected for the position based on his visionary leadership and ability to see the “big picture” in advancing student learning.
Ross served as director of alternative education (1992-2002), then as assistant principal and principal at Alleghany High School until becoming director of secondary instruction. He assumed the role of director of secondary instruction at Alleghany Highlands Public Schools, which was created through the July 2022 merger of Alleghany County Public Schools, Covington City Schools, and Jackson River Technical Center. Shannon Fuhrman has been appointed chief of administrative services. She joined AHPS in July 2022 after a 26-year career with Covington City Schools.
Fuhrman began her career at Covington High School, teaching math and computer science, before moving into instructional technology and later administration, serving as assistant principal and athletic director while also working as the division’s math specialist. After a brief interim principal role at Jeter-Watson Intermediate School, she became principal at CHS, later moving to the central office as director of instruction and director of technology.
She was selected for her AHPS role based on strong analytical skills and a passion for focusing on all areas of instruction. In her new position, Fuhrman will oversee departments that support both instruction and day-to-day operations, including human resources, finance, and technology. The appointments of Ross and Fuhrman come as the division prepares for the retirements of key leaders, including Assistant Superintendent Melinda Snead-Johnson, Director of Human Resources and Pupil Personnel Fred Vaughan, and Director of Elementary Instruction Sherman Callahan.
Lori Mattson and Ty Dobbs, who previously held interim titles while supporting AHPS during the transition period, were also officially approved for their roles following a competitive interview process.
Mattson is now principal of Covington Middle School. She returned to the school in July 2025 after a brief reassignment to Alleghany High School as part of the division’s strategic staffing plan. Prior to joining AHPS, Mattson worked with Bedford County Public Schools and brings extensive experience as an athletic director.
Dobbs has been formally named assistant principal/athletic director at Alleghany High School, a role he assumed in July 2025. He previously served as athletic and activities director for AHPS since 2023. His leadership background includes serving as principal at Sharon Elementary School and earlier as assistant principal/athletic director at AHS. Notably, Dobbs stepped in to fill an unexpected vacancy at AHS last year following the untimely passing of Assistant Principal Timothy Cochran.
“The school board and central office administration have engaged in careful planning to ensure a smooth transition and strong leadership across the division,” said Jon Lanford, chair of the AHPS School Board. “By appointing Dwayne Ross and Shannon Fuhrman, experienced educators with strong leadership and analytical skills, and confirming Lori Mattson and Ty Dobbs in their roles, we are providing continuity, strategic guidance, and support for students, teachers, and families as we prepare for upcoming retirements.”
Superintendent Kim Halterman added, “We are fortunate to have leaders like these guiding our schools. Their experience, vision, and dedication will help ensure a smooth transition, maintain stability, and continue advancing instructional excellence across the division. This careful planning allows us to meet the needs of our students, teachers, and families both now and in the future.”
AHPS is continuing to plan for the 2026-2027 school year and may share updates on leadership roles as plans develop.
Stay informed about AHPS news and events by following the division on Facebook at AHPublicSchools and on Instagram at ahpublicschools. For more information, visit www.ahps.k12.va.us.
Dwayne Ross (AHPS photo)
Lori Mattson (AHPS photo)
Shannon Fuhrman (AHPS photo)
Ty Dobbs (AHPS photo)
