Warren County Schools Welcomes Back Jennifer Smith as Principal of Northside Elementary School

Warren County Schools is pleased to announce the return of Jennifer Smith as principal of Northside Elementary School. A familiar and respected leader in the district, Smith brings more than 20 years of experience in public education and a proven record of instructional leadership, student achievement, and school improvement.

Most recently, Smith served as Director of Testing and Accountability for Vance County Schools, where she led districtwide efforts to strengthen assessment practices, accountability systems, and academic performance.

Smith’s roots in Warren County Schools spanned over a decade. She previously served as principal of Warren New Tech High School from 2017 to 2020, assistant principal at Warren County Middle School from 2016 to 2017, and Transformation Facilitator at Northside K-8 from 2014 to 2016. She began her educational career with Warren County Schools in 2006 as a teacher assistant before serving as a teacher, principal intern, assistant principal, and principal.

Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from North Carolina Central University and a Master of Arts in School Administration from North Carolina State University.
As she prepares to lead Northside Elementary, Smith said she is especially excited to serve the community she has long called home.

“I understand the strengths, traditions, and values that make Warren County special,” Smith said. “I am committed to helping Northside Elementary continue to grow as a place where every child is supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.”

Superintendent Dr. Carol Montague-Davis said Smith’s return to the district reflects Warren County Schools’ commitment to investing in leaders who understand and value the community they serve.

“Jennifer’s leadership journey is rooted in Warren County Schools, and we are thrilled to welcome her back to lead Northside Elementary,” said Dr. Montague-Davis. “Her deep connection to our community, paired with extensive leadership experience at both the school and district levels, gives her the vision, knowledge, and compassion to lead Northside Elementary as it continues to grow and achieve even greater success. We are excited about the future under her leadership.”

Smith will begin her new role as principal of Northside Elementary School effective July 24, 2026, and will work closely with staff, families, and community partners to ensure a successful start to the upcoming school year.

Share