Robert Ash has been with WS/FCS since 2004. He’s enjoyed a long and successful tenure as a principal and assistant principal between Speas and Ashley Elementary. His expertise in school operations is matched only by the level of care he demonstrates for his students and their families – it’s clear to everyone who works with him that he’s happy to be where he is.

“When I went to tour Speas, I met Mr. Ash,” said PTA President Pamela Kozadayev. “Right away I could tell how much he cared about the school, students and his staff. He was knowledgeable, approachable, and you could see that he had so much pride in what he did.”

Since 2002, Stephanie Gentry has been proud to serve WS/FCS as both a teacher and an administrator. She prides herself on strong skills in relationship building, problem solving, conflict resolution, staff collaboration, and professional development. Even as the demands of the pandemic have ramped up stress in schools in the last few years, the students and staff at Southeast have felt supported and secure under Gentry’s leadership.

“Ms. Gentry is always concerned about the whole student; not just the academics,” said Lead Counselor Jamie Sherman. “She knows that students need to feel supported and cared for no matter what.”

Dr. Raphael Green-Hughes comes from a decorated history of education, holding degrees in school administration, arts education, psychology and divinity. She’s worked with WS/FCS since 2001 as a teacher, an instructional facilitator, an assistant principal, an interim principal and now principal. Her leadership approach is determined and results-oriented, and her colleagues say that her love for her community shows through in all of her hard work.

“Dr. Hughes loves our scholars, holds them to high expectations and also celebrates their progress,” said Assistant Principal Donyea Hairston. “She also communicates the importance of partnering with parents so that they know how to support their child.”

Brad Royal became principal at Reagan High in 2016, but his experience as an educator dates all the way back to 1996. His decades of leadership experience have driven unprecedented growth at the school and helped him set up dozens of programs and partnerships for student enrichment. He’s also established himself as a personable and dependable leader for his students and staff.

“I believe his strongest leadership trait is his ability to build relationships with all stakeholders in a school - most importantly, his students,” said Math Teacher Wendy Bartlett. “He loves Reagan students, and it is obvious from his interactions with them.”

Dr. Stephanie Sanders has worked all over the state and in every facet of education since 2002. She earned her doctorate in educational leadership while working as a principal, demonstrating her commitment to ongoing education and professional development. The rest of her team sees her as an inspiration to always keep growing and doing more to enhance the educational experience.

“Understanding that a principal wears many hats, Ms. Sanders demonstrates integrity, persistence, optimism, and hope for the present and future of education,” said Teacher Anthia Smith. “Even more, her strong foundations, principles, and desire to achieve greatness for every student and teacher will always be at the forefront as she continues to strive to invest in her growth day after day.”