Jefferson County Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Joyce Ashworth as the new principal of North Jefferson Elementary School (NJES). Ashworth brings more than 30 years of experience in education, having begun her career as a kindergarten teacher’s aide before transitioning to roles as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, academic coach, and assistant principal. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in literacy from SUNY Cortland, and earned her administration certification through Hood College.
Ashworth’s educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student brings unique strengths to the classroom.
“It’s our job as educators to build on those strengths and help students succeed,” she said. “Every child deserves an equitable, supportive learning environment that helps them thrive.”
Ashworth previously served Jefferson County Schools as an academic coach and as the county’s Academic Coaching Cohort facilitator before becoming an assistant principal at Blue Ridge Elementary. Most recently, she served as an assistant principal in Berkeley County.
Returning to Jefferson County Schools as an administrator represents a full-circle moment for Ashworth. She looks forward to using her previous experience as an educator and academic coach to support NJES students, staff, and families in the years ahead.
“Administrative opportunities at small schools like North Jefferson do not come along often,” she said. “It’s the culmination of a dream to lead this school community.”
Ashworth lives in Berkeley County with her husband and enjoys gardening, jigsaw puzzles, Outer Banks beach vacations, and spending time with her two children and two grandchildren.
Ashworth began her role as principal by helping to close out the 2024–25 school year and prepare for a strong start in the upcoming year.