Dr. Juliana Thompson has been named the next superintendent of Southampton County Public Schools, effective June 29. 

“I am deeply honored to join Southampton County Public Schools as superintendent,” Thompson said. “I want to sincerely thank the Southampton County School Board for their confidence and trust they have placed in me through this appointment. I look forward to partnering with our educators, families, staff, and community members to build on the division’s strengths and ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.”

Brandon Rodgers, chair of the Southampton County School Board, believes Thompson will be a great fit for the division. “The Southampton County School Board is excited to welcome Dr. Thompson as the next superintendent of our division. Her leadership, experience, and vision make her an excellent match for our division. We’re confident that her leadership will inspire collaboration and innovation throughout our schools.”

Thompson currently serves as the interim regional director for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and previously served as superintendent for Roanoke Rapids Graded School District for five years.

With a total of 19 years of experience in public education, Thompson began her career as an English teacher at Grafton High School in York County Public Schools in Virginia.

Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of leadership roles, including principal resident, literacy design collaborative local trainer, assistant principal, chief academic officer, and assistant superintendent for the RRGSD.

Thompson earned her doctorate of educational policy, planning, and leadership from William & Mary, a master of school administration from North Carolina State University, a master of arts in education, and a bachelor of arts from William & Mary.

The Virginia School Boards Association assisted the school board with the superintendent search process.