“I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to lead in a division that helped shape who I am today.” Supt. Dr. Marcia Martin
Dr. Marcia H. Martin yesterday (July 1st) became Nottoway County’s ninth Division Superintendent since consolidation took place in 1970.
She was hired in May, and Dr. Martin was given a four-year contract with a starting salary of $140,000 annually. She had been making $117,309 as the Division’s Assistant Supt. of Instruction and Federal Programs, a position she had held since 2022.
Courier-Record summer intern Jakiyla Watson emailed Dr. Martin several questions, and her answers appear unedited.
How are you going to make Nottoway County Public Schools (NCPS) better?
We will work together! It is important that we all work together – staff, students, families, and the community—to build a stronger NCPS grounded in high expectations, accountability, and a shared commitment to excellence. By fostering pride in our school division and focusing on continuous improvement in academics, student support, operations, and communication, we will create systems that are effective and beneficial to our students.
Why do you think you’re the best choice for your position?
As I shared when I was appointed, I am humbled and honored to be selected to lead NCPS. I bring a combination of experience, commitment to the community, and a deep understanding of the needs of NCPS. My long-standing connection to the division gives me insight into where we’ve been and a vision for where we need to go.
Have you helped the people in NCPS before? How?
Yes. Over the years, I’ve served as a teacher, principal, and central office administrator. In each role, I’ve supported students, staff, and families by listening, responding to needs, and building systems to promote success.
What led to you wanting to be a Superintendent?
My desire to become Superintendent grew from a passion for public education and a commitment to ensuring every student has access to learning opportunities. I believe leadership plays a key role in shaping positive outcomes for students. In particular, Nottoway is my home and I want the best for our division, county and ultimately our students.
Why should the parents of NCPS trust you?
I understand the responsibility that comes with leading a school division. I am committed to transparency, communication, and collaboration, and I will work every day to make decisions that are in the best interest of students. In addition, I am vested in the division and success of our students. I am fortunate to be a graduate of Nottoway and my children have attended Nottoway.
What are you most looking forward to when starting this job?
I’m most excited to work closely with our students, staff, and families to build on our strengths and improve where needed. Being present in schools and celebrating student and staff success is something I look forward to. I am excited to see our students grow and learn.
Is there anything NCPS should look forward to while you are in office?
Yes—commitment, visibility, an increased focus on academic excellence, student well-being, accountability, high expectations and community engagement. Communication is key and hearing and addressing the needs of our students, and staff are our top priorities. Our students and staff deserve the best and I will advocate for their needs.
What is going to be your first major change to NCPS?
We will work together in the division to bring about change and high student achievement. The goal is always what is best for our students to learn and achieve. It is important to observe, hear feedback and make adjustments where they are needed.
Do you have any advice for those who are wanting to go into a higher education position?
Stay committed to learning, and be willing to serve others. As you grow you must always understand your why in what you do. It is important to stay grounded, be a listener and understand what is needed. Leadership comes with joys and challenges, it is important to stay true to yourself.
How does it feel to have graduated from the very division that you are about to oversee?
I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to lead in a division that helped shape who I am today. It adds a deep personal commitment to the work ahead because I understand firsthand the potential within our students, the dedication of our educators, and the strength of our community. Nottoway is my passion and it’s home. I take great pride in serving the very place that invested in me, and I am fully committed to giving back by ensuring every student has access to a high-quality education and a school experience that prepares them for success. This is more than a job—it is my passion, my heart and the belief I have to ensure our children in Nottoway have opportunities and experiences.
How would you convince parents of NCPS to keep their kids enrolled in a public school versus a private or homeschooled education?
NCPS offers dedicated and amazing educators who are committed to the success of our students and schools. The division provides strong academic programs and learning experiences which are preparing students for success. Public schools bring together students from diverse backgrounds and prepare them for the real world in meaningful ways.
Do you believe there is a problem with bullying in NCPS? How will you address it?
In every school division, fostering positive student relationships is essential to a safe and supportive learning environment. At NCPS, we are committed to creating schools where every student feels respected, valued, and connected. Addressing bullying means consistent policies, student, staff and family education, as well as strong relationships between
NAMED BY GOVERNOR
Kristina Nunnally of Amelia Court House has been appointed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin to the state Advisory Council on Pediatric Autoimmume Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome. Ms. Nunnally is a founding member of the Virginia Alliance for PANS/PANDAS Action. staff and students. The school will be committed to reviewing every situation to ensure our students are valued and feel that school is a safe place to learn and grow. We will continue to examine and review any practices to ensure our students are protected.
I imagine being Superintendent is a full-time job with hardly any downtime. Are you still involved with Youth Recreation in any way or have any hobbies that you enjoy in your time off?
My passion is children and the success and opportunities that they can experience. While this role does require a lot of time and focus, I do try to stay connected with youth and the community. I still volunteer with the recreation association as it is important for our child to have opportunities outside of school. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family — I have two sons who I love to watch play soccer. Most people often see me walking in town– I love to walk and I try to ensure I do it every day. It allows me to decompress. I always look forward to traveling. My parents always took us places every summer growing up, and I have been fortunate to travel with my family to different places every year. Of course, I look for any opportunity to eat out with my family and spend time with my sweet niece.
Loading Comments