In a recent announcement from Charles County Public Schools (CCPS), Hughes Valmond has been appointed the new principal of J.C. Parks Elementary School, effective May 1. The Board of Education of Charles County ratified Valmond’s appointment on March 12, welcoming him from his current role in South Bend, Ind., where he has garnered significant experience in educational leadership.
Valmond steps into the position vacated at the start of the academic year following the retirement of the former principal. Bringing over 18 years of experience in the education sector, his journey has spanned roles from an elementary school principal to a school counselor across middle and high school levels. Currently, he is the principal of Muessel Elementary School in South Bend, a school recognized as Title I for its commitment to supporting the academic achievement of students from low-income families. Valmond expressed his enthusiasm for the transition, emphasizing the importance of elementary education in setting the groundwork for lifelong success.
In reflecting on his career and the impact of education, Valmond shared, “The best part of education is witnessing students graduate high school and observing former students become successful pillars in the community, both in their careers and beyond. Elementary education lays the foundation for setting our students on the path to lifelong success. As educators, it is our responsibility to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate a more complex world in the future.”
Before his tenure in South Bend, Valmond contributed his expertise as a school counselor with Norfolk Public Schools and currently serves as a professor at the Trine University School of Education in Reston, Va. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology and a master’s degree in urban education school counseling preK-12, both from Norfolk State University. Further enhancing his credentials, Valmond has earned a certificate of advanced studies in educational school leadership from Cambridge University.
As Valmond prepares to take on his new role at J.C. Parks Elementary, Acting Principal Kathy Perriello will continue her duties until his transition. The school and the community eagerly anticipate the introduction of Valmond to his new position, with plans for a community meet and greet in the works to welcome him officially.
Valmond’s appointment marks a significant step for CCPS in their ongoing efforts to foster a nurturing and effective educational environment for students. With his extensive background and dedication to educational leadership, Hughes Valmond is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students at J.C. Parks Elementary School.
