ECPPS Announces District Leadership Transitions

ECPPS Announces District Leadership Transitions for 2026–2027

Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools (ECPPS) is pleased to announce several leadership transitions within the district's Central Services team for the upcoming school year. These experienced leaders bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to serving the students, staff, and families of ECPPS.

Mrs. Renee Tamarelli - Director of Exceptional Children: After serving as Interim Director of Exceptional Children, Mrs. Renee Tamarelli has been appointed Director of Exceptional Children. During her more than 20 years with ECPPS, she has served as an Exceptional Children teacher, Autism and Behavior Specialist, Program Specialist, and Assistant Director of Exceptional Children. Mrs. Tamarelli is also currently pursuing her Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in Education credential, further strengthening her expertise in supporting students with diverse learning needs.

Mrs. Simona White - Director of Curriculum and Instruction: Ms. White has been named Director of Curriculum and Instruction. She most recently served in district leadership roles supporting secondary English instruction and Student Services. Throughout her career with ECPPS, Mrs. White has also served as a principal, assistant principal, instructional coach, and classroom teacher, bringing extensive instructional leadership experience to her new role.

Ms. Terrie Wilson - Public Information Officer: Ms. Wilson will assume the responsibilities of Public Information Officer while continuing to serve as the district's Professional Learning and Beginning Teacher Coordinator. Prior to her current role, Ms. Wilson served as an assistant principal at Northeastern High School, STEM Coordinator, District Instructional Coach, and science teacher at Elizabeth City Middle School. Her background in leadership, communications, and professional learning positions her well to support the district's engagement with students, families, staff, and the community.

Ms. Caroline Gordon- Administrative Assistant, Technology Department:  Ms. Caroline Gordon is transitioning to the Technology Department as Office Assistant. After many years serving the district in Communications and as Public Information Officer, Ms. Gordon will continue her service to ECPPS by supporting the Technology Department while also continuing to provide support for the ECPPS Board of Education meetings.  

Ms. Kimberly Whitehurst- Director of Federal Programs: Ms. Kimberly Whitehurst has been appointed Director of Federal Programs. Throughout her career with ECPPS, she has served as a teacher and in numerous leadership roles, including District Lead Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, Instructional Coach, and various district support positions. Her broad experience and understanding of instructional and operational leadership will support the continued success of the district's federal programs.

Dr. Katina Jones-Waples- Executive Director of Student Services: Dr. Katina Jones-Waples has been named Executive Director of Student Services. Dr. Jones-Waples has served ECPPS in a variety of leadership positions, including principal of Sheep-Harney Elementary School, Director of Elementary Education, and Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction. Her experience across instructional leadership and student support services will continue to strengthen the district's efforts to meet the needs of every student.

These leadership transitions reflect ECPPS's commitment to developing strong leaders from within the organization and ensuring students, staff, and families continue to receive exceptional support across all district departments.

"Our greatest strength as a school district is our people," said Dr. Keith Parker, Superintendent of Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools. "Each of these leaders has demonstrated a commitment to our students, our staff, and our community. Their experience, dedication, and passion for public education make them exceptionally well-prepared for these new roles. I am excited to see the continued positive impact they will have as we work together to provide outstanding educational opportunities for every student in ECPPS."

ECPPS congratulates these outstanding leaders on their new roles and looks forward to the leadership, innovation, and collaboration they will bring as the district continues its mission of empowering every student to succeed.