Leadership
Nichole Gross- Interim Principal
Phone: 804-780-5064
Email: ngross@rvaschools.net
Ms. Gross currently serves as the Interim Principal at J.H. Blackwell Preschool, where she is honored to lead a school community committed to early childhood education and student success. Prior to this role, she served as the Assistant Principal at Chimborazo Elementary School form 2020 to 2025, helping the lead the school to full state accreditation and earning multiple recognitions from the Virginia Board of Education. Ms. Gross began her career as a middle school English teacher, teaching 6th though 8th grade English--including IB Language and Literature--In Henrico County, where she also served as an Administrative Aide and Athletic Director.
Her accolades include being named Henrico County Public Schools' Gilman Teacher of the Year in 2018 and receiving the R.E.B. Award for Teaching Excellence, which allowed her to travel to Ghana, Italy, and Greece to explore the historical and cultural roots of word literature. In addition to classroom teaching, she coached track, girls' basketball, and she served as a mentor coordinator and school committee leader for the Coalition of Equitable and Inclusive Communities.
Ms. Gross holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Virginia State University, a Master of Science in Education with a specialization in Reading and Literacy from Capella University and and Administration and Supervision certificate from Longwood University. She also holds a Virginia postgraduate professional license with endorsements in Reading Specialist, Secondary English, and K-12 Administration and Supervision.
Academic Dean Shana Jones-Banks
Phone: 804-780-5064
Email: sjones6@rvaschools.net
Mrs. Jones-Banks is entering her 24th year in public education. She has previous leadership experience as an Assistant Principal and Dean of Students. She has also served as a classroom teacher in Preschool and Kindergarten.
Mrs. Jones-Banks has a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Virginia State University and a Master of Education degree with a concentration in Educational Administration.
Mrs. Jones-Banks is a proud wife, mom and daughter.