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Janet Garland, the new principal of Montross Middle School, has two guiding principles that she follows in her educational career; ALL students CAN and TEACHERS do important work. The new MMS leader says these principles are at the forefront of all her decisions. A long time educator, Mrs. Garland worked in Chesterfield County as a Special Education teacher and Assistant Principal. More recently she was a principal in Essex County.
Growing up in the Richmond, Virginia area, she initially thought about going into marketing and received her BS in marketing from VCU. It was after the tragedy of losing her special needs son, that her interests changed. Seeking to assist children and their families in need, she ran a non-profit called Warren’s Hope, Inc. for twelve years. The foundation, named for her late son, assisted many young people during its tenure.
Deciding to go back to school to get a license as a special education teacher was important to her. Mrs. Garland received her additional BS in education from Virginia Commonwealth University and her master’s degree in education leadership from Old Dominion University. Throughout her years teaching and in administration, she learned how to communicate with families and children.
Mrs. Garland is committed to partnerships. She is hoping to bring a sense of belonging to all students at Montross Middle School. She wants students to know that they are cared for so they will grow socially and emotionally. It is also important for families to support their child’s teachers.
Married for 34 years to her husband, Warren, the couple have settled into their home in Deltaville, Virginia. They share a love of fishing and boating at their waterfront. Their son, Scot, lives and works in McLean, Virginia.
She looks forward to taking the helm at Montross Middle School. “Great things have taken place at Montross Middle School and I want to honor those traditions. I always want to remain humble.” Westmoreland County Public Schools welcomes Mrs. Garland to the district.