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Hertford County Public Schools Announces Key Leadership Appointments for 2025–2026 School Year

IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2025
Hertford County Public Schools Announces Key Leadership Appointments for 2025–2026 School Year


The Hertford County Board of Education is pleased to announce several key leadership appointments
and transitions within Hertford County Public Schools (HCPS), effective July 1, 2025. These strategic moves underscore the district’s unwavering commitment to educational excellence, leadership development and student-focused progress.

Superintendent Dr. Jesse J. Pratt expressed his confidence in the leadership team, stating, “I believe these appointments reflect what’s best for our students, staff and school communities. We are aligning our leadership with the needs of our district as we continue to move forward with purpose”. HCPS remains focused on its mission and vision, these leadership transitions mark an important step in advancing the district’s goals and ensuring continued success for every student, every day.

 

 

 

Dr. Takeda LeGrand, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instructions

Dr. Takeda LeGrand will serve as the new Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. Dr. LeGrand is a seasoned educator with over 22 years of leadership experience spanning the classroom, school, district and state levels. She holds a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Gardner-Webb University, an Executive Juris Doctorate in School Law from Concord Law School at Purdue University Global, a Master of Arts in Teaching from North Carolina A&T State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. We are excited to welcome Dr. LeGrand to our team and look forward to the impact she will have across HCPS.

 

 

 

 

Wesley Dudley, Director of Operations

Mr. Dudley has served as the principal of Hertford County High School since October 2023. During his tenure, he has demonstrated strong leadership and cultivated meaningful relationships with students, staff, families and the greater school community. His commitment to academic excellence, operational efficiency and a positive school culture has made a lasting impact in a short time. Beginning July 1, 2025, he will transition into a new leadership role as Director of Operations for HCPS, where he will continue to support the district’s mission and drive systemic success on a broader scale.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Robert Tripp, Principal of Hertford County High School

Dr. Tripp currently serves as the principal of Columbia Middle School in Tyrrell County, bringing
nearly two decades of distinguished service and leadership to the field of education. His professional journey began with six years in the U.S. Army, where he cultivated a strong foundation in discipline, service, and community engagement. Following his military service, Dr. Tripp dedicated the past 13 years to education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and student advocate. His leadership roles have included Assistant Principal positions in Dare and Pasquotank counties, as well as Dean of Students, each marked by his commitment to student achievement and well-being. Dr. Tripp earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University and is deeply passionate about empowering students to reach their full potential. Beginning July 1, 2025, Dr. Tripp will bring his expertise, dedication and student-centered leadership to HCHS as its new principal—an exciting addition to the Bear family.

 

 

 

 Terrell Deloach, Principal of Ahoskie Elementary School

 

Mrs. Terrell Deloatch is a visionary leader and licensed educator with two master’s degrees and 18 years of experience in secondary education. She has been dedicated to HCPS since 2006, demonstrating a strong commitment to student achievement and staff development. Since 2021, she has served as the principal of Hertford County Middle School. Beginning July 1, 2025, she will transition to her new role as principal of Ahoskie Elementary School.

                   

 

 

 

 

 Elenia Riddick, Principal of Hertford County Middle School

Ms. Elenia Riddick has been a dedicated member of HCPS for the past 16 years. Since 2019, she has
served as the principal of Ahoskie Elementary School, where she has had the privilege of leading the school out of low-performing status. Through a shared commitment to excellence and student success, she has made a lasting impact on the school community. Beginning July 1, 2025, Ms. Riddick will transition to her new role as principal of Hertford County Middle School.

 

 

 

 

 

Deedee Beverly, Assistant Principal of Hertford County Middle School

Mrs. Powell-Beverly has more than 11 years of experience in education, marked by a deep commitment to student success, staff development and continuous school improvement. Over the past five years, she has served as the Assistant Principal at Ahoskie Elementary School, where her leadership has been instrumental in creating a positive school culture, enhancing instructional practices and strengthening relationships with students, families and staff. Her impact has been evident in the school’s academic growth and collaborative spirit. Widely respected for her dedication, professionalism, and student-centered approach, Mrs. Powell-Beverly is set to continue her service to HCPS in a new role. Beginning July 1, 2025, she will transition to Assistant Principal at Hertford County Middle School, where she is
eager to support middle school students and staff in reaching new levels of achievement.

 

 

 

 

 Shavonda Smith- Jimenez, Assistant Principal of Ahoskie Elementary School

Mrs. Shavonda Smith-Jimenez, a native of Gates County, NC, earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a concentration in Pre-Physical Therapy from Elizabeth City State University. She began her teaching career at Hertford County Middle School, where she has served with dedication for the past 15 years. Mrs. Smith-Jimenez received her teaching certification from East Carolina University and later earned a master’s degree in education from Capella University. She holds certifications in Science (K–12), Reading and Literacy and Curriculum & Instruction. She has been the Assistant Principal of HCMS since 2024. Beginning July 1, 2025, Mrs. Smith-Jimenez will transition into her new role as Assistant Principal of Ahoskie Elementary School, where she will continue to impact student achievement and
support instructional excellence.