On Monday, July 13th, 2026, the West Virginia Department of Education recognized Kingwood Elementary School Principal, Mrs. Samantha Peaslee, as a finalist for the WV Principal of the Year Award. Mrs. Peaslee has been invited to attend the Champions of Learning Gala in Charleston, WV on September 8th, 2026, where the winner of this award and other top education honors will be named.
Samantha Peaslee is the principal of Kingwood Elementary School in Preston County. As an instructional leader, Peaslee is committed to fostering a positive school culture centered on student growth, strong relationships and high-quality instruction that supports the academic, behavioral and social-emotional success of all learners. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from West Virginia University, and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education with an English Language Arts endorsement for Grades 5-9 also from WVU. Additionally, she holds a Post-master’s Certification in Educational Leadership from Fairmont State University. Under her leadership, Kingwood Elementary School has emphasized positive school culture, student-centered learning, literacy growth, community engagement and innovative practices designed to meet the evolving needs of students. These efforts were recognized nationally in 2024 when Kingwood Elementary School was named a model school at a nationally recognized school conference. Kingwood Elementary has also been recognized as a West Virginia Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Tier I Model School for the past three years. Peaslee believes meaningful relationships, consistency and a shared commitment to excellence are at the heart of successful schools. She is passionate about supporting educators, celebrating student success and ensuring every child feels valued, challenged and inspired each day they walk through the school doors.
