Surry County Public Schools

Sinclair "Aaron" Harris: Principal, Luther Porter Jackson Middle School

Sinclair “Aaron” Harris brings more than 17 years of experience in education and leadership, marked by a steadfast commitment to student success, teacher empowerment, and community engagement. His career spans classroom instruction, curriculum development, and administrative leadership—each phase reinforcing his belief that education is both a science and an art, grounded in empathy, structure, and innovation.

A proud graduate of Norfolk State University (BA) and Old Dominion University (MS.Ed & Ed.S.), Sinclair’s academic foundation reflects his dual focus on pedagogy and organizational leadership. At Norfolk State, he cultivated a deep understanding of instructional practice and cultural responsiveness; at Old Dominion, he expanded his expertise in educational administration and strategic planning. Together, these experiences shaped a holistic perspective on how schools can nurture both intellectual growth and emotional well-being.

Throughout his tenure, Mr. Harris has led initiatives that integrate evidence-based teaching into learning, strengthen professional development, and promote equity across diverse learning communities. His leadership style—rooted in service, collaboration and reflection—empowers educators to innovate while maintaining accountability and purpose. Recognized as Norfolk Public Schools Middle School Teacher of the Year (2011–2012), he continues to inspire through his dedication to excellence and his belief that every student deserves access to transformative learning experiences.

Sinclair “Aaron” Harris is an educator and leader whose career embodies the transformative power of teaching and mentorship. With roots in classroom instruction and a passion for equitable learning, he has spent years shaping environments where both students and educators thrive.  Sinclair’s approach to pedagogy centers on connection—seeing every learner as capable, every challenge as an opportunity, and every classroom as a community. 

In his free time,  Mr. Harris enjoys gardening and exercising. Harris is a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc..  Mr. Harris has been happily married to his wife, Wynel for 19 years.  Together they share four beautiful children, Nehemiah (17), Silas (16), Azariah (14) and Selah.

Jowanda D. Hill: Assistant Principal, Luther Porter Jackson Middle School

Jowanda D. Hill, a native and graduate of Surry County Public Schools.  She is an experienced instructional leader with over a decade in education. She brings expertise in special education, student support services, and school operations, with a leadership style grounded in collaboration, accountability, and equity to ensure inclusive, high-quality learning for all students.

Ms. Hill holds an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Old Dominion University, along with a Master of Education from Liberty University and a Bachelor of Science from Old Dominion University. She maintains endorsements in Special Education, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Administration and Supervision PreK–12.

Prior to her current role, she has served as an Interim Assistant Principal, supporting school operations, supervising staff, leading discipline and restorative practices, and using data-driven strategies to improve student achievement. Her diverse experience includes roles as a Special Education teacher, Family & Consumer Science teacher,  and leadership positions such as Special Education Compliance Coordinator, 504 Coordinator,  Summer School Program Administrator, Transition Coordinator, and Parent and Family Engagement Liaison.

Committed to equity and strong school-community partnerships, Ms. Hill leads with purpose, fostering inclusive environments, strengthening family engagement, and empowering both students and staff. She is deeply committed to building upon the rich fifty-year legacy of excellence at her alma mater, Surry County Public Schools, ensuring its continued growth and success for future generations.

In addition to her work in education, Ms. Hill is an entrepreneur and licensed culinary professional, bringing creativity, organization, and a passion for service into all aspects of her leadership. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Iota Lambda Sigma Honor Society.  Additionally, she is also a proud mother and “Nonna”, cherishing time and conversations with her daughter, Princess, and granddaughter, Malaia.

Tabitha J. Hite: Division Literacy Specialist

Tabitha Hite is a Surry County resident who grew up in the neighboring county of Sussex and is a proud graduate of Sussex Central High School. She has been married to her husband, Jeff, a lifelong resident of Surry County, for 25 years. They have a son, Dylan Hite, who is 23 years old, and a 2-year-old Rottie, Luna. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys spending time camping and relaxing by the pool.

She is a dedicated educator with over 26 years of experience and a strong commitment to supporting students, families, and learning communities. Her experience includes teaching high school English and 4th grade, as well as serving as a Reading Specialist and Division Literacy Specialist for Surry County Public Schools. She is returning home after serving as the Division Literacy Supervisor for Hopewell City Public Schools.

Mrs. Hite earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Christopher Newport University, a Master of Education with a Reading Specialist Endorsement from Liberty University, and an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University. She holds Virginia endorsements in English K-12, PK-6, and Reading Specialist.

Mrs. Hite is passionate about helping others grow and believes that meaningful learning begins with strong relationships, clear communication, and genuine care. Throughout her career, she has worked to create positive educational experiences that encourage confidence, curiosity, and success for both students and educators. Known for her reliability, compassion, and strong work ethic, Tabitha brings patience, professionalism, and a student-centered mindset to her work. She remains committed to making a lasting impact in education by supporting instructional excellence, fostering collaboration, and helping learning communities thrive.

Trina Bailey Craddox: Compliance and Federal Programs Coordinator

Trina Craddox is a seasoned educational leader with 29 years of experience, characterized by a deep commitment to systemic excellence and student equity. A proud graduate of the Surry County High School, Ms. Craddox’s career spans 18 years in the classroom and 11 years in the principalship. Notably, under her steady leadership, Luther Porter Jackson Middle School maintained full accreditation for ten consecutive years.

Ms. Craddox holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Virginia State University, a Master’s in Administration and Supervision from The College of William and Mary, and a Gifted Education endorsement from James Madison University. Her background in mathematics provides the foundation for her exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, enabling her to navigate complex datasets and regulatory frameworks with precision. Even as an administrator, she has remained a "teacher at heart," directly remediating Math 6 and 7 students during the school day to prepare them for SOL testing and expedited retakes. 

A veteran in grant authorship and program management, Ms. Craddox was a vital architect of LPJ’s 21st Century Community Learning Center (Title IV, Part B). As principal, she championed both innovation and community tradition; she opened a GO TEC Lab for targeted career readiness, implemented a PBIS Store by securing local funding to reward positive student behavior, created a Principal’s Advisory Committee, implemented the 8th Grade JROTC Integration Program, and continued the cherished tradition of hosting the annual Veterans’ Program to honor local heroes. Her sharp analytical approach to safety and logistics are evidenced in her role as the Surry County Evacuation Assembly Center (EAC) Supervisor, where she received excellent ratings during FEMA-evaluated drills.

In her role as Compliance and Federal Programs Coordinator, Ms. Craddox will oversee the coordination of Titles I, II, III, IV, and V. As a prior school 504 coordinator, she will ensure division-wide compliance with Section 504 and all state and federal regulations. Guided by her core values of transparency, accountability, and honesty, she will continue to utilize her problem-solving expertise to ensure that federal resources provide maximum support for targeted student populations.