Henderson County Schools is proud to announce Dr. Lawanda B. Staten as the district’s new Director of VPK, Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten, a state-funded early childhood education program designed to prepare four-year-old children for kindergarten.
Dr. Staten brings 24 years of experience as an educator in the Henderson County School System, along with extensive experience in teaching, instructional leadership, school administration, and early childhood education. Her teaching background includes working with students in grades K–5, and throughout her career with Henderson County Schools, she has served in several leadership roles, including Academic Coach at Westover Elementary School, Assistant Principal at Beaver Elementary School, and Interim Principal at Scotts Hill High School. She also serves the district as an Early Childhood Instructional Coach, a role that allows her to focus directly on supporting early childhood educators and young learners.
Dr. Staten earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Tennessee at Martin, a Master’s degree in Teaching and Learning from Bethel College, and an Education Specialist degree with an Administration Leadership certification from Freed-Hardeman University. She received her Doctorate in Education Leadership from Freed-Hardeman University in December 2023.
Whether leading early childhood initiatives, supporting professional learning, mentoring educators, or advocating for student success, Dr. Lawanda B. Staten exemplifies servant leadership and remains dedicated to transforming lives through the power of education.
Dr. Staten is incredibly excited and honored to begin a new chapter in her career as the Director of VPK for Henderson County Schools. This opportunity is especially meaningful because early childhood education has always held a special place in her heart. As a former early childhood teacher, she has experienced firsthand the tremendous impact that quality early learning can have on a child’s future.
She is excited to return to her roots in early childhood and use her experience, passion, and leadership to support young learners, empower teachers, and partner with families and the community to build a strong foundation for every child.
Dr. Staten and her husband, Eric, have been married for 28 years and are the proud parents of two accomplished daughters, Amber and Ashley. Their family’s commitment to education, faith, and service continues to inspire her personally and professionally.
Dr. Staten shared:
“I believe that the early years are the beginning of every child’s story, and I am honored to help make those beginnings meaningful, joyful, and full of possibility. As I begin this new chapter as Pre-K Director, I am excited to serve Henderson County’s youngest learners, support and empower educators, strengthen partnerships with families, and advocate for high-quality early childhood experiences that prepare every child for lifelong success.”
Please join Henderson County Schools in congratulating Dr. Lawanda B. Staten on her new role as Pre-K Director. Her extensive experience within our district, her passion for early childhood education, and her commitment to students, educators, and families make her a wonderful addition to this important leadership role.