Warren County School Board Appoints Dr. Troy Wright as New Superintendent

In a unanimous vote during its November 5 meeting, the Warren County School Board officially appointed Dr. Troy Wright as the new Division Superintendent of Warren County Public Schools, effective December 1, 2025.

The appointment followed a four-month search process that began after the resignation of former Superintendent Dr. Christopher L. Ballenger on June 30, 2025. Dr. J. David Martin was named Acting Superintendent, effective July 1, and has helped guide the transition while the board worked with the search firm McPherson & Jacobson, LLC, to identify a permanent replacement.

The board expressed strong unity and enthusiasm in welcoming Dr. Wright, highlighting his leadership style, community focus, and extensive experience, particularly at the high school level in southern Virginia.

“We had a very good collaborative effort to hire Dr. Wright. We were all together on hiring him,” said Board member Thomas McFadden. “I think everyone’s going to enjoy his very warm personality, sense of humor, and his focus on the community.”

Board member Antoinette Funk added, “Tonight marks a very pivotal and hopeful moment for our school division. This decision represents far more than a selection of a new leader—it represents thoughtful deliberation, a shared commitment to our students, and full board support.”

Board members emphasized their unanimous support for Dr. Wright, with Chair Kristen Pence noting, “We all stand together with our full support of Dr. Wright. I believe he has the experience and the leadership to open a positive new chapter for our school division.”

After the vote, Dr. Wright addressed the board and attendees, expressing gratitude and excitement.

“I’m very excited to be here, very excited for this opportunity to come to Warren County, to move here, and to really just pour into the community and the school system,” he said. “My wife is here tonight—she’s equally as excited—and we’re both just looking forward to getting moved in and getting connected.”

Dr. Wright humorously recalled his “speed dating” style tour of the schools during the interview process with Acting Superintendent Dr. Martin.

“By the time we were halfway through, I was already sold… I just knew I had to do everything I could to get you, hopefully, sold on me as well. I’m glad it worked out.”

He also expressed appreciation for Dr. Martin’s ongoing support and mentorship, calling him an “excellent mentor” who laid important groundwork for a smooth leadership transition.

The board echoed this sentiment, thanking Dr. Martin for his service and assistance throughout the search and onboarding process. Dr. Martin will continue to help with the transition in the coming weeks.

With Dr. Wright’s official appointment, the School Board closed an important chapter and opened a new one—signaling fresh leadership, continuity of progress, and a continued commitment to students, staff, and the broader Warren County community.