VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Virginia Beach City Public Schools has a new superintendent.
The board voted Tuesday night to appoint acting superintendent Dr. Don Robertson to the full-time role after a nationwide search.
“Over the past 36 years, you have worn many hats,” said School Board Chair Kimberly Melnyk to Robertson on Tuesday. “You certainly have grown in your progression and now, sir, the ship is yours to steer. We have a lot of work to do, and the division is counting on you and your leadership to take us forward. Welcome home, Dr. Robertson.”
Robertson’s been in the acting role since the beginning of the school year after former Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence took the superintendent job in Loudoun County Public Schools.
“I am humbled by the confidence you have placed in me to lead Virginia Beach City Public Schools to continued success,” Dr. Robertson said. “I pledge to lead with the highest integrity; I pledge my commitment to our staff, students, community and this board; and I pledge to live and lead by the core values of our great school division.”
In an interview with WAVY in August, Robertson said he’s focusing this year on making sure students are “Future Ready,” which includes in-person workplace experience for high school students.
Robertson started with VBCPS as a math teacher back in 1988, and has served as a principal at Salem High, an assistant principal at Bayside High, as well as various leadership positions at central office. He has a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Old Dominion University, a master’s degree in education and human development from George Washington University and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies from Virginia Tech.
“I believe in the power of education and more importantly, in our collective potential to accomplish even greater things together,” Dr. Robertson said. “I believe in the power of our leadership, our teachers and all our support staff. I’d like to thank the School Board members for their assurance and my dear wife, Debbie, for her understanding, support and love. I am humbled, I am beyond excited, and I am without further words.”
Robertson is the 19th superintendent in Virginia Beach’s history.
