Leadership
Gary Lindsay,
Principal
Dear LHES Community,
I am thrilled and honored to introduce myself as the principal of Linwood Holton Elementary School. As a native of Richmond, I am excited to be joining this exceptional school community in my home city. Having been fortunate to work with wonderful educators in the past, I am particularly excited to join a school community that has a reputation for excellence.
Prior to joining Linwood Holton, I served as an assistant principal with Louisa County Public Schools and as a 5th grade teacher in RPS. During my time in Louisa County and in the classroom, I learned that the power of strong relationships between teachers, families, and students can positively impact a school's culture and students' academic success. Building meaningful connections with students, families, and staff members has been an invaluable experience for me, and I am eager to bring this passion and expertise to Linwood Holton Elementary School.
Relationships are the foundation of an effective education. As a principal, I believe that it is essential for every student to feel safe, loved, respected, and supported in their learning environment, and I am honored to continue building on the foundation Linwood Holton has established. I am committed to working collaboratively with each member of the community to provide the best educational experience possible for all of our students.
Please know that I am here to support you and our students in any way that I can. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. This year is going to be extraordinary as we continue to grow and learn together as a community.
Thank you for your warm welcome to Linwood Holton Elementary School. I am excited to be a part of this amazing learning community.
Sincerely,
Gary Lindsay
April Burwell, Ph.D.
Assistant Principal
Dear Linwood Holton Community,
It is with great excitement that I write this letter of introduction to you as the new Assistant Principal of Linwood Holton Elementary School. I am honored to have the opportunity to help lead a school with an excellent reputation for having a dedicated staff, a supportive school community, and eager-to-learn students.
I have been dedicated to education for fifteen years and have maintained various roles, including teaching students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The 2023-2024 school year is my fifth year in leadership. Before serving at Holton, I was an Elementary Instructional Specialist for Exceptional Education in Richmond City Public Schools, a Coordinator of Special Education in Chesterfield County Public Schools, and a Mentor Teacher. I am thrilled to bring my skills as an educator and leader to the Holton family to create a culture and climate that promotes student social and academic growth.
In June 2022, I earned my doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, where I focused on preparing leaders to lead inclusive and special education programs. Education is power; therefore, inclusive practices are essential to me and a priority to ensure that every student has the opportunity and resources to access high-quality instruction.
Positive relationships are a powerful tool that creates the best outcomes for teachers, administrators, and families. I will support Principal Lindsay in sustaining an environment conducive to learning and look forward to growing and learning with the Holton family. Together we will help our students reach their highest potential!
Sincerely,
April Burwell, Ph.D.