Kelly Guempel is a veteran educator with 29 years of experience.
Guempel will lean heavily on that experience in his second term as the interim superintendent of the embattled Spotsylvania County Public Schools.
Guempel steps into the role after the firing of Mark Taylor, who served less than two years before being dismissed with cause earlier this month.
Guempel is expected to fill the position while the school division conducts a national superintendent search. Last week, the board hired BWP & Associates, an Illinois-based search firm, to assist in its efforts.
Guempel previously served as Spotsylvania’s interim superintendent from July through October 2022 before Taylor’s hiring was finalized.
“My intention is to support the transition to ensure that the school division continues to provide a safe and positive learning environment,” Guempel said. “I will continue to keep our students and staff the main focus and look forward to working with the school board as we finalize the [fiscal year 2025] budget.”
Guempel served as Spotsylvania’s deputy superintendent and chief academic officer from November 2022 until his recent appointment. His experience includes roles as a teacher and administrator. He earned a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1995. He earned a master’s in administration and supervision from VCU in 2006.
In 2020, Guempel completed an education specialist degree in central office leadership from the American College of Education. He holds a superintendent’s license and is in the process of completing a dissertation for a doctorate.
“We are confident that Mr. Guempel will provide continuity and support for the school division as the interim superintendent while we search for the next superintendent for our amazing students, staff and families,” Spotsylvania School Board Chair Lorita Daniels said. “He already knows the staff and schools and previously served in this capacity.”
The school board will hold a special meeting Wednesday to discuss the next steps in its superintendent search.
