Updated: Waynesboro Schools superintendent confirms retirement

Waynesboro Public Schools Superintendent Jeffrey Cassell announced his pending retirement during tonight’s Waynesboro School Board meeting.

AFP first reported the news that Cassell was going to announce his retirement tonight in a report published Tuesday afternoon.

In an email sent out Tuesday at 6:46 p.m., Cassell said his retirement to be effective Dec. 31.

Cassell, who has served as the superintendent for the Waynesboro school system since 2013, was working under the terms of a four-year contract extension from the School Board that he signed in 2024.

The timing gives the current members of the School Board the chance to name a permanent successor either ahead of the November elections, in which two seats are up in contested elections, or at the least ahead of the end of the terms of the current members who hold those seats, Debra Freeman in Ward C and Amber Lipscomb in Ward D.

Lipscomb, a MAGA Republican, is not running for re-election; the Ward D race features a pair of political independents, Adam Seipel and Cathe Myers, vying to fill the seat.

Freeman is running for re-election in Ward C, against Kelvin Washington.

Both Freeman and Washington are political independents.

I would argue that the current Board should move to name an interim to take the job starting Jan. 1, begin its national search in the coming weeks, but wait to make a final call on a new superintendent until the new School Board is seated in January.

Let’s do what we could do to avoid a situation like we saw at UVA with the rush to replace Jim Ryan as president, and what we’re seeing now at Virginia Tech with Tim Sands being forced into early retirement to allow the MAGA Board of Visitors there to name his replacement.

Update: Tuesday, 6:53 p.m.

---

Jeffrey Cassell sent the following by email ahead of the start of tonight’s Waynesboro School Board meeting.

“After much thought and reflection, I am writing to share with you that I will retire as Superintendent of Waynesboro Public Schools, effective December 31, 2026.

“This decision has not come easily. After four decades in public education—including the past thirteen years serving as Superintendent of Waynesboro Public Schools—I have concluded that it is time to begin a new chapter in my life. Looking back over my career, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I have had to serve students, families, educators, and communities. It has truly been the privilege of a lifetime.

“Serving the Waynesboro community has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Throughout these thirteen years, I have had the opportunity to work alongside extraordinary teachers, support staff, administrators, School Board members, students, families, and community partners who share an unwavering commitment to ensuring every child receives an exceptional education. Together, we have celebrated successes, navigated challenges, and remained steadfast in our mission of doing what is best for students.

“I am especially grateful to the Waynesboro School Board for their confidence, support, and shared vision for our schools. Their commitment to public education has allowed us to strengthen academic opportunities, invest in our employees, improve our facilities, and build partnerships that continue to benefit our students and families.

“To our teachers, staff, and administrators, thank you for your professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Every day, you make a lasting difference in the lives of our students. Your commitment to excellence and your belief in the potential of every child are the foundation of this division’s success. It has been an honor to serve alongside you.

“To our families and community partners, thank you for your trust, encouragement, and steadfast support. Strong schools are built through strong partnerships, and I am deeply appreciative of the many individuals, businesses, and organizations that have invested in the success of Waynesboro Public Schools. Together, we have created opportunities that will positively impact students for years to come.

“As I reflect on my thirteen years as superintendent, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. While I will certainly miss the daily work of leading this outstanding school division, I leave with complete confidence in its future. Waynesboro Public Schools is filled with talented educators, dedicated staff, supportive families, and remarkable students who will continue to build upon the strong foundation we have established together.

“Over the coming months, I will work closely with the School Board and our leadership team to ensure a smooth and successful transition. My commitment to our students, employees, and community remains unwavering through my final day as superintendent.

“Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving the Waynesboro community for the past thirteen years and for making this chapter of my career so meaningful. I will always cherish the relationships we have built, the memories we have created, and the shared commitment to providing every student with the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

“Waynesboro Public Schools has a bright future, and I look forward to watching the division continue to thrive for many years to come.”