Pam Dudding
Contributing writer
When Jeanette Warwick, the previous superintendent of the Craig County Public Schools, announced her retirement, many staff and students repeated, “Her shoes are very big to fill; she was one in a million; a leader and advocate for our kids!”
On Thursday, Aug. 31, the Craig County School Board held a special meeting to swear in the new superintendent that had been chosen for the schools, Dwayne Huff.
As Sharon Oliver from the Craig County Courthouse asked him to repeat words of affirmation to the new position, the Craig County School Board smiled.
“Do you solemnly swear and confirm that you will support the constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia and that you will faithfully and impartially discharge all duties that are incumbent upon you as Superintendent of Craig County Schools according to the best of your ability, so help you God?” Oliver asked and Huff confirmed.
“We feel we have found a great man who will do good things for our schools and students here,” they shared. “He holds a wealth of knowledge of the system and has a heart for kids; we are very happy and glad we took this long to find the best.
The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) assisted the school board with the superintendent search process.
His new position will become effective Sept. 1.
Dwayne Huff comes from Grayson County Public Schools where he currently serves as the director and principal of the career and technical education center, a role he has held since 2018.
Huff earned his Master of Science in Educational Administration from Radford University, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University, and a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management from Virginia Tech.
With over 13 years of experience in education, Huff has formerly served as an agriculture and biology teacher.
Additionally, Huff worked with the Virginia Department of Forestry as an area forester.
He has served in lead roles with many conservation organizations, including the New River Soil and Water Conservation District, VA Forest Service, and the New River Highlands Resource and Conservation District.
“As an educator who entered the profession through the career switcher program, Huff brings a diverse background in economic development, natural resource management, organizational leadership, administration, and education,” the board shared.
Trace Bellassai, chair of the Craig County School Board, believes Huff will be an excellent fit for the division and shared, “We’re all very excited to be bringing Mr. Huff into the Craig County Family and having him carry forward the Craig County Way. As a board and school division, we are excited and fortunate to have hired an experienced leader who aligns so well with our needs. His expertise and eagerness to engage with our community will assist us in continuing our progress in Craig County.”
“It’s a tremendous honor to be chosen as the superintendent for Craig County Public Schools,” expressed Huff. “I believe my background will be an asset for this role, and this area. Craig County Public Schools has a rich history of excellence and receives strong support from the community. I’m eager to collaborate with our students, parents, community members, teachers, and staff to ensure we equip our students with the tools they need for future success.”
