Vernon named principal for Prospect Point Elementary school

Walla Walla Public Schools announces Justin Vernon has been selected principal of Prospect Point Elementary. The extensive hiring process included a formal interview in front of two committees as well as a public meet and greet session where parents, faculty and students provided input on both finalists.

“Serving as interim principal these last few months has been an honor, and I am excited to continue to serve the Superstar community as its permanent principal,” said Mr. Vernon. “I feel very fortunate to have landed in a school and community dedicated to doing what is best for students. I am committed to the growth of all our students and know, as a community of learners, we are on the right track. I want to thank the parents, staff and students in entrusting me with this task.”

Mr. Vernon is serving as Interim Principal at Prospect Point Elementary for the 2022-2023 school year after former Principal Barb Casey was promoted to a directorship. Vernon, who has been an educator for 20 years, served as Assistant Principal at Prospect Point Elementary for two years prior to accepting his current interim principal role. He was principal of Blue Ridge Elementary from 2019-2020 prior to the school being repurposed to an early learning center. Vernon spent three years at Green Park Elementary as the school’s Dean of Students and Math Coach and has five years of additional administration experience in previous districts prior to coming to Walla Walla Public Schools. He also has 11 years of service as an elementary teacher.

“I am so proud of the leader Justin Vernon has become,” said Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith. “In short fashion he has developed high levels of trust and strong relationships with staff, students and families. The sky is the limit for our Prospect Point Superstars under Justin's direction.”

Mr. Vernon will assume his new duties as permanent principal July 1, 2023.