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Orange County Schools introduces three new administrators and recognizes special-education efforts
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Hornick presented three administrative hires — a new high school principal, a director of technology and a dean of students — and the board recognized special-education teachers and a local host for this year’s special games for students with disabilities.
Superintendent Dr. Hornick used the June 2 Orange County School Board meeting to introduce three new members of the district’s administrative team and to present recognitions for special-education programming.
The board and staff announced that Nicholas (Nick) Sodano has been recommended and approved as the new principal at Orange County High School. Hornick said Sodano has worked in Orange County Schools for 20 years, 15 in administrative roles, and is currently principal at Locust Grove Middle School.
The board also introduced Brandon Bennett as the new director of technology for Orange County Public Schools. Hornick noted Bennett is a 2011 graduate of Orange County High School who joined the division in 2018 and moved into the computer network specialist role in January 2022. In the meeting Bennett is quoted saying, "I'm thrilled to be joining the administrative team. I'm excited to continue supporting the community and the school system that helped educate me through safe and meaningful technologies." (Brandon Bennett)
Paul "PJ" Salinski was presented as the new dean of students at Orange County High School. Hornick reviewed Salinski’s background in Prince William County, Fredericksburg, Henrico and Fluvanna and noted his long track record coaching wrestling.
The board also recognized the district’s special-education work: staff thanked Woodbury Forest School and Matt Blunden for hosting the district’s special games this year after scheduling and transportation conflicts, and singled out four special-education teachers (Madison Pitts, Christina Beach, Jessica Mathis and Holly Hanford) who produced a hard-bound book showcasing students’ writing and illustrations so each student could take home a copy.
After the closed-session certification, the board approved the personnel agenda that implements resignations, nonrenewals, summer school employment, hires, transfers, rescinded employment, salary adjustments and extracurricular and coaching appointments. The board did not provide detailed personnel-by-name in the public motion at the time of approval.
The board asked that copies of the special-education books be provided to members so they could view the finished product.
