The Franklin County Schools Board of Education recently hired Brent Gillespie as Vina’s new principal at the July 18 meeting.

Gillespie has 24 years of experience in the education field. He has been a kindergarten teacher, special education teacher, middle school teacher and senior government economics teacher. At Hatton High School he served as assistant principal for nine years and then principal for seven years.

“This is what I was made to do – work with kids, be around people,” Gillespie said.

According to Gillespie, his years as a teacher have informed his leadership roles.

“I’ve seen a lot of the roles of teachers, which has helped me in my roles as administrator,” he said.

Gillespie said the transition from Hatton to Vina won’t be a challenge for him because both schools are grounded in the community.

“They need the community’s support to thrive. Vina is a small town, but I’ve noticed that it’s tight-knit,” Gillespie said.

Several community members have already made it a point to introduce themselves to Gillespie, and he said he is grateful for that hospitality.

“Even though I don’t live here, I’m a part of this community now,” he said. “I’m anxious to get to know the faculty and the kids.”

Gillespie said he believes he will be a good fit for Vina, and Superintendent Greg Hamilton agrees.

“I have had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Gillespie for the past 20 years. He is a veteran educator with a wealth of knowledge and experience in all aspects of public education,” Hamilton said. “He will bring energy and excitement to Vina High School while making sure the very best education possible is provided to the students.”

Gillespie said his main goal is for the school to be as good as it can possibly be.

“As the faculty does great, they’re going to raise the level of success of the students, and I’m going to help along the way,” he said.