New Wayne Academy principal named

In a news release issued this afternoon, Wayne County Public Schools introduced Wayne Academy’s new principal.

John Bell started his first day as principal of Wayne Academy this morning, replacing Dr. William Vann, who resigned last month.

“As a former social worker at the Department of Social Services and the founder and director of one of the state’s first Alzheimer’s and Dementia Adult Day Services Programs, I have learned the struggles families face and worked at improving their lives by providing needed services,” Bell said. “Likewise, in my public education career I found that quality teaching and student engagement and learning are our best preventative measures to help our students have the best opportunities for continuing secondary education and college, being career ready and having success after becoming high school graduates.”

According to the release, Bell has taught at the elementary level, served as an assistant principal in grades K-12, and a principal in grades 6-12. In addition, he has served in director roles for both the Career and College Promise (CCP) Program and Safety and Operations for Johnston County Schools. Mr. Bell holds a bachelor’s degree from Elon College, a teaching certification from Saint Augustine’s College and a master’s degree in school administration from East Carolina University.

“I am honored to be named principal of Wayne Academy,” he said. “I look forward to working with our students, parents/guardians, our faculty and the community to maximize the potential and success of our young people who can benefit from an alternative learning program.”