MSD Martinsville names principals for new elementary as construction advances

The MSD Martinsville Schools board introduced the leadership team for the district's new elementary school and heard an update on the project's construction timeline. Dr. Jill Vulcan will serve as principal and Dr. Stephanie Manley as assistant principal for the school being built near Henderson Ford Road, the board announced.

"We are not just opening a new building, we're laying the foundation for a legacy of learners," Dr. Vulcan said after being introduced, saying she aims to create "a safe and supportive environment where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered." Dr. Manley said she was eager to work with Vulcan and the district to create strong learning experiences for students.

A board member described recent progress on the site: the old building has been torn down, and work is under way on foundations and curbing. Large prefabricated concrete wall panels and slabs are expected to be delivered and set around Feb. 17, the board was told, a construction method the speaker said will speed the build. The board also noted plans for an auditorium and Building C at the high school as part of the broader project.

Board President Heather Staggs congratulated the new leaders and said the hiring represents the first major facility project for the district since 1989–90. No formal action on the project details took place during the meeting; the board is reviewing policy updates and will continue construction oversight in future sessions.

The new elementary's mascot will be the Eagles, the board said, a choice intended to reflect community ties to an eagle statue at the campus entry.

Next steps include continued construction milestones through early 2026 and a second reading of proposed Neola policy changes at a future meeting.