Richmond County Public Schools

P. O. Box 1507 — 92 Walnut Street

Warsaw, Virginia 22572
(804) 333-3681 • (fax) (804) 333-5586
www.richmond-county.k12.va.us

DIVISION SUPERINTENDENT ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

JAMES G. SMITH, Ed.D. SARAH M. SCHMIDT, Ed.D.

To Whom It May Concern:

I have known Dana Fox as the assistant principal of Rappahannock High School since 2015 through my
position in the central office. Dan Fox exemplifies the term instructional leader in every aspect of her
work, and also has the managerial skills necessary to ensure an organization runs smoothly, regardless of
changes and challenges which may arise.

As the assistant principal of a school which has made tremendous improvements in SOL scores and post-
secondary outcomes, with almost fifty percent of students classified as economically disadvantaged, it is
clear Dana provides teachers with not only motivation, support and leadership, but also the tools to assist
children in reaching their educational goals. She is well respected by the teachers, who often remark on
her ability to provide excellent suggestions for improving instruction. She is also consistent, firm and fair
in her disciplinary actions, which has garnered support not only in the school building, but also in the
community.

While Dana has many strong qualities as an instructional leader, it is two intangible qualities that she
possesses which I would consider her greatest strengths: leadership through forming relationships and
reflective practice. Dana works diligently to cultivate relationships with the students, staff and parents of
Rappahannock. This is perhaps one of her greatest strengths, in that she takes the time to listen and
problem-solve the difficult issues which arise over the course of a school day, which has built trust in her
and her decision making process. She is also truly committed to continuous improvement both for the
school and the district. During the AdvancED accreditation process we underwent, Dana was the
coordinator for RHS. She was able to take a critical look at the school and the district, and was able to
highlight strengths and weaknesses. She further provided a great many suggestions for improvements
moving forward. It is not often that you will find an individual who is truly a reflective practitioner like
her.

As an administrator, you will find Dana Fox is very organized, timely in turning in reports, very
competent in the area of technology and also detail oriented. She does not make rash decisions, but is
instead thoughtful and judicious, gathering information to make a well informed choice. Dana Fox will
be an asset to any educational institution with which she is associated.

Sincerely,

Sarah M. Schmidt
Assistant Superintendent

— SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS —

John A. Brown - Chairman • Ken Blackley - Vice-Chairman
Kathleen F. Beane • Patricia P. Pugh • Vivian G. Wood