Leadership
Interim Principal: Nichole Gross
Ms. Gross currently serves as the Interim Principal of J.H. Blackwell Preschool, where she is proud to lead a school community dedicated to early childhood learning and student success. She previously served as Assistant Principal at Chimborazo Elementary School from 2020 to 2025, where she supported the school’s achievement of full state accreditation and helped earn multiple recognitions from the Virginia Board of Education. Ms. Gross began her career in Henrico County Public Schools as a middle school English teacher, teaching grades 6–8, including IB Language and Literature. During her time in Henrico, she also served as an administrative aide and athletic director. Her honors include being named Henrico County Public Schools’ Gilman Teacher of the Year in 2018 and receiving the R.E.B. Award for Teaching Excellence. In addition to her instructional and leadership roles, Ms. Gross has coached track and girls’ basketball, served as a mentor coordinator, and acted as a 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 in Reading and Literacy from Capella University, and an Administration and Supervision Certificate from Longwood University. She holds a Virginia Postgraduate Professional License with endorsements in Reading Specialist, Secondary English, and K–12 Administration and Supervision.
Phone: (804) 780-5064
Email: ngross@rvaschools.net
Academic Dean: Shana Jones-Banks
Mrs. Jones-Banks is entering her 24th year in public education and brings a wealth of experience and dedication to student success. She has served in various leadership roles, including Assistant Principal and Dean of Students, and has extensive classroom experience as a Preschool and Kindergarten teacher. Mrs. Jones-Banks holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Virginia State University and a Master of Education in Educational Administration. Her passion for education is rooted in her commitment to building strong learning communities and supporting the growth of both students and staff. Outside of school, Mrs. Jones-Banks is a proud wife, mother, and daughter.
Phone: 804-780-5064
Email: sjones6@rvaschools.net