A Caroline County school board member was elected president of the Virginia School Boards Association this week.
JoWanda Rollins-Fells, who represents the Reedy Church District on the Caroline board, was formally named president at the VSBA annual convention in Williamsburg that was held Wednesday through Friday.
Rollins-Fells has served on the Caroline board for the past eight years and possesses extensive experience in state-level leadership roles, including serving as the VSBA representative for the Virginia High School League, VSBA Eastern Region chair and VSBA representative for the Virginia Partnership for Out-of-School Time.
“I am truly honored to serve as the VSBA President, representing school board members who are unwavering champions for Virginia’s students,” Rollins-Fells said. “Together, we will advocate for student success, empower educators, and create inclusive, supportive learning environments. I look forward to driving positive change and ensuring that every child in Virginia has the resources and support they need to thrive.”
Rollins-Fells is the only Fredericksburg area school board member on the VSBA Board of Directors.
She appointed leaders for VSBA’s key committees, including Joseph Kilgore of Hampton to chair the Finance/Audit Committee and Chris Johnson of Prince George to lead the Legislative Positions/Federal Relations Committee.
Rollins-Fells, a Caroline native, earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and education with a counseling strand from Hampton University, where she went on to earn a master’s in teaching. She holds a doctorate of philosophy degree in education: curriculum and instruction. She is a nationally certified teacher and holds certificates in educational leadership and change management.
