Johnston County Public Schools has named Tonya Williams Leathers as its new High School Area Assistant Superintendent.
Williams Leathers currently serves as the principal for Riverside High School in Durham Public Schools. Her start date with JCPS is Jan. 19, 2021.
“I am delighted to welcome Mrs. Williams Leathers to Johnston County Public Schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy. “I am confident that her experience as a strong instructional leader will help our district increase student academic achievement.”
Williams Leathers has served in education for 19 years, and 12 of those years have been as a principal in Durham Public Schools. From 2008-2012 she served as principal of Eno Valley Elementary School. From 2012-2016 she served as principal of Sherwood Githens Middle School, and she has served as principal at Riverside High School since 2016.
In 2015 she was named the Durham Public Schools Principal of the Year and the North Central Region Principal of the Year.
She has a proven track record for improving student achievement. In 2017, 2018, and 2019 she led Riverside High School to Exceed Growth by state standards.
“I am excited for the opportunity to assist Dr. Bracy as he continues to focus on equity and excellence in Johnston County Public Schools,” said Williams Leathers. “I look forward to collaborating with the entire community. I am honored to serve Johnston County Public Schools.”
Williams Leathers received a Bachelor of Arts in Middle School Education from N.C. Central University in 2000 and a Masters in School Administration from N.C. State University in 2006. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education – K-12 Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University.
As the High School Area Assistant Superintendent Williams Leathers will assist principals with decision making and problem solving. She will plan, develop, and monitor results of programs to be implemented across all high schools, assist in the implementation of district initiatives, and develop policies, standards, and a vision for all high schools.
She will fill the position previously held by Dr. Ben Williams. Her starting salary will be $125,000. Dr. Williams had been paid $97,607 in the position.
