About Dr. Ashby C. Kilgore, Superintendent

ASHBY C. KILGORE, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Newport News Public Schools

Dr. Ashby C. Kilgore has over 35 years of experience in public education as a teacher, principal, college professor and deputy superintendent.

She began her career as a government teacher in Hampton City Schools and later served as a principal in Hampton and in Newport News, prior to being appointed assistant superintendent of instruction and then Chief of Strategic Planning and School Improvement in Newport News Public Schools. In this capacity, Dr. Kilgore led the implementation of the school district’s multifaceted plan to increase academic achievement for all students while closing the gaps in achievement among the student populations.

In July 2006, Dr. Kilgore was appointed Deputy Superintendent, and on October 1, 2006, she started her tenure as Interim Superintendent -- the first woman ever to lead the 32,500-student school division. On May 24, 2007, the Newport News School Board appointed Dr. Kilgore as Superintendent.

As Superintendent, Dr. Kilgore promotes Smart, Safe Schools by building a foundation of high expectations, rigorous content, and persistent support for students and teachers, using increased time for instruction, technology tools, and literacy and mathematics coaches.

Dr. Kilgore holds a bachelor of arts degree in political science and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Old Dominion University, and a doctorate in educational administration and policy studies from The George Washington University. She is a member of numerous educational and civic organizations and was named a Woman of the Year for the Virginia Peninsula.