The Amherst County School Board is pleased to announce Dr. Melody Sheppard as the next Superintendent of Amherst County Public Schools.

Dr. Sheppard has served as Superintendent of Shenandoah County Public Schools since July 1, 2021.  During her tenure, she has focused on improving student learning, expanding educational opportunities, strengthening student support services, and building strong partnerships with families and the community. Under her leadership, all schools in Shenandoah County Public Schools achieved accreditation through the Virginia Department of Education, and the division expanded opportunities in career and technical education.

Prior to her service in Shenandoah County, Dr. Sheppard spent more than 23 years in Warren County Public Schools in several leadership roles, including Assistant Superintendent for Administration, Interim Superintendent, Director of Career and Technical Education, Principal of Blue Ridge Technical Center, and Director of Technology. Her background includes instructional leadership, technology integration, STEM education, career readiness, school improvement, and capital improvement planning.

“Dr. Sheppard is highly qualified and ready to lead Amherst County Public Schools into its next chapter,” said David Childress, Chair of the Amherst County School Board. “She brings a strong record of leadership, student support, career and technical education, technology, and community engagement. The Board is excited to welcome her to Amherst County.”

Dr. Sheppard earned her doctoral degree in Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia in 2023. She also holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from George Mason University and a bachelor’s degree in Business Education from West Virginia Institute of Technology.  Dr. Sheppard and her husband, Dana, are looking forward to moving to beautiful Amherst County. They are the proud parents of two adult children.

“I am honored and excited to join Amherst County Public Schools,” said Dr. Sheppard. “I look forward to working with the School Board, staff, students, families, and the Amherst County community to build on the division’s strengths and continue creating opportunities for students.

The Amherst County School Board invites the community to join us in welcoming Dr. Sheppard to Amherst County.