New School Leadership at George Washington Middle School

The school leadership of George Washington Middle School (GWMS) is transitioning at this time, with current Academic Principal Jeanette Vinson taking on the role of acting principal. Dr. Jesse Mazur, who has served as GWMS principal since 2014, informed staff, students and families in a message earlier this week that he would be leaving Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS).

“We want to thank Dr. Mazur for his eight years of service to ACPS and his leadership at George Washington Middle School,” said Executive Director of School Leadership Dr. Pierrette Finney. “He has been dedicated to academic excellence and student well-being, and has taken a collaborative approach by partnering with staff and families to benefit students. He has developed sustainable systems that will benefit GWMS in the years to come.  We appreciate all he has done to build connections at GWMS and establish a strong and supportive learning community.”

In his message to families, Dr. Mazur thanked the GWMS community for their involvement and support for the school and reviewed highlights during his tenure, including programs and initiatives put in place to meet the specific social-emotional and learning needs of students. He shared his pride in having led a dynamic team of educators and achieved several milestones while at the helm of GWMS, and asked the community for their continued support of administrators who will lead the school going forward.

Jeanette Vinson’s role as acting principal will take effect as of Dec. 20, 2022. She joined ACPS in 2003 and has served as academic principal at GWMS since 2016; her previous positions include dean of students (2014-2016), administrative intern (2013-2014) and special education teacher (2003-2013). Prior to joining ACPS, Mrs. Vinson worked in Prince George's County, Md., as a special education teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree in special education from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and a master’s degree in educational administration from Trinity University.

Donita Muse will replace Mrs. Vinson as acting eighth grade academic principal as of Dec. 20, 2022. She joined ACPS in 2013 as a math teacher at GWMS and also served as the mathematics instructional coach. Prior to joining ACPS, Ms. Muse worked in Fairfax County, Va., as a math teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in mathematics and an educational leadership endorsement from Longwood University. 

ACPS will begin a search for a permanent principal in spring 2023.