I am pleased to announce the selection of Carlos Seward, current principal of Rappahannock County High School, as the next principal of South Lakes High School, effective July 1, 2024. Mr. Seward is an experienced instructional leader, collaborator, and relationship builder with over 20 years of experience working in urban, suburban, and rural schools.

In 2004, Mr. Seward started his career in education as a social studies teacher at Renaissance Academy in Virginia Beach. Over the next 10 years, he taught at Moody Middle School in Henrico County Public Schools (PS), Norcom High School in Portsmouth PS, and Jefferson-Houston K-8 School in Alexandria City PS. 

In 2014, based on his teaching and leadership skills, Mr. Seward was chosen to be the Middle School Lead Teacher, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) Site Coordinator, and International Baccalaureate - Middle Years Programme (IB-MYP) Coordinator in Alexandria City PS. Mr. Seward led the school-wide implementation of AVID. He also started partnerships with local colleges and universities and community organizations to provide AVID students with access to resources, mentors, and enrichment opportunities. As IB-MYP Coordinator, Mr. Seward provided ongoing professional development and support to teachers to deepen their understanding of the IB-MYP philosophy, instruction, and assessment practices. 

In 2016, Mr. Seward was named dean of students at George Washington Middle School. In this role, he co-led the development of the school’s discipline policies and practices and oversaw the character education and life skills initiatives. 

In 2017, Mr. Seward was named an assistant principal at Culpeper High School in Culpeper, Virginia. He honed his skills at data analysis, program evaluation, and student intervention. Mr. Seward also led professional development on classroom management, differentiated instruction, and cultural competence.

In 2021, Mr. Seward was named Principal of Rappahannock County High School. As high school principal, he also serves as the Director of Career and Technical Education for the school division. Mr. Seward led the evaluation of curricula, instruction, and realigned assessments with a focus on serving diverse learner populations. He implemented a data-driven approach to instruction which increased teacher effectiveness and student outcomes. Mr. Seward started quarterly benchmark testing in core content areas to systematically monitor student progress. He also created and maintained a positive school culture with high expectations and individualized support for staff and students. 

Mr. Seward earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Norfolk State University and a Masters in Education Leadership from Hampton University. He is currently working towards a doctorate in Education from Regent University. 

Please join me in welcoming Carlos Seward as the new principal of South Lakes High School.