Person County Schools is pleased to announce several leadership appointments for the 2026-2027 school year, reflecting the district's commitment to placing experienced, student-focused leaders where they can make the greatest impact.
The appointments include:
Whitney Sharlow, current principal of South Elementary School, has been named principal of Southern Middle School.
Rhonda Daye, current principal/director of Person County Learning Academy, has been named principal of South Elementary School.
Dr. Dwayne Johnson, current principal of Woodland Elementary School, has been named principal of Stories Creek Elementary School.
Ashley Warren, current principal of Stories Creek Elementary School, has been named principal of Woodland Elementary School.
Jennifer Tong, currently serving as assistant principal at Woodland Elementary, Oak Lane Elementary, and South Elementary, has been named Director of Alternative Learning.
Each of these leaders brings a strong record of service, instructional leadership, and a commitment to building positive school cultures that support student success.
"These appointments reflect the depth of leadership we are fortunate to have in Person County Schools," said Dr. Rodney Peterson, Superintendent of Person County Schools. "Each of these educators has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to students, staff, and families. By thoughtfully aligning our leaders with new opportunities, we are strengthening our schools and positioning each campus for continued success. I am excited to see the positive impact they will have as they begin this next chapter."
Whitney Sharlow has served as principal of South Elementary School, where she has focused on strengthening academic achievement, building relationships with families, and fostering a positive learning environment for students and staff. As principal of Southern Middle School, she will continue her commitment to student-centered leadership while supporting students through the important transition into middle school.
Rhonda Daye brings extensive leadership experience from her work with Person County Learning Academy, where she has supported alternative education programs and helped students overcome challenges and achieve success. She looks forward to partnering with South Elementary families to continue the school's tradition of academic excellence and community engagement.
Dr. Dwayne Johnson has led Woodland Elementary School with a focus on academic growth, school culture, and innovation. His leadership has earned recognition across the district, and he now brings that experience to Stories Creek Elementary School as he continues his passion for serving students and families.
Ashley Warren has served the Stories Creek Elementary community with a strong emphasis on relationships, student achievement, and creating a welcoming school environment. She will bring those same leadership qualities to Woodland Elementary School as she joins its school community.
Jennifer Tong has served students and staff in multiple elementary schools as assistant principal, providing instructional leadership and operational support across several campuses. As Director of Alternative Learning, she will oversee programs designed to meet the unique academic and social-emotional needs of students while expanding opportunities for individualized success.
These leadership transitions will take effect prior to the start of the 2026-2027 school year. Person County Schools is confident these appointments will build upon the strong foundations already established within each school community while supporting continued growth and achievement across the district.
For more information about Person County Schools, visit www.person.k12.nc.us, or contact Erin Hill, Person County Schools Director of Marketing and Engagement.
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Media Contact:
Erin Hill, Director of Marketing and Engagement
304 South Morgan Street, Roxboro, NC 27573
Phone: 336-599-2191 ext. 22110
About Person County Schools
Person County Schools serves more than 4,500 students across 14 schools in Person County, North Carolina. Guided by its mission to prepare students for success in a changing world, the district is committed to providing equitable educational opportunities that empower students to think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and become engaged citizens. Through strong partnerships with families and the community, Person County Schools prepares graduates for success in college, careers, and life.