Administration

Ms. Meghan Neary

Principal

meghan.neary@apsva.us

From an early age growing up in rural upstate New York, Ms. Neary always knew she wanted to be an educator.  She attended The College at Brockport, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree as a curriculum specialist.  In 2015, she earned her second master’s degree in educational leadership from Columbia University.  Ms. Neary began her career as a special education teacher and later a classroom teacher, at Carlin Springs Elementary School.  Also, she served as the special education lead teacher and instructional lead teacher, while also a mentor to new teachers each year.  From 2017 to 2023, Ms. Neary served as assistant principal, at Ashlawn Elementary School, where she continued her journey as a school leader.  At Ashlawn, she built strong trusting relationships with students, staff, and families.  Together, the school community found innovative approaches to instruction and worked collaboratively to best meet the needs of all students.  This past school year, she transitioned to a role as math interventionist, at Barcroft Elementary School.  Ms. Neary is passionate about meeting the unique needs of every student while fostering a love for learning and empowering future global citizens.  She is committed to creating a welcoming, fun, and safe environment where all staff, students, and families feel valued and supported.  Ms. Neary is excited to return to Ashlawn and continue the great work that is being done in this community.

Ms. Holly Vesilind
Assistant Principal
holly.vesilind@apsva.us

Mrs. Vesilind is thrilled to be joining Ashlawn Elementary for her second year as an Assistant Principal. For the 2022–2023 academic year, Mrs. Vesilind worked as an Assistant Principal at Swanson Middle School. Prior to that, she spent more than 20 years teaching music, including at Ashlawn. She received her endorsement in Administration and Supervision from The University of Virginia, a Master’s of Education degree from Pepperdine University, and Bachelor of Music degree from George Mason University. Mrs. Vesilind has a wide range of leadership experience including recruiting and managing staff, school safety and security management, equity team leadership, major event planning, budget management, and career and academic advising. Mrs. Vesilind is proud to serve the APS community and looks forward to continuing her leadership journey at Ashlawn!