Dr. Sara Lewis-Stankus will join the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) as Vice Superintendent of Education beginning August 31, 2022. She is currently the Superintendent of Upshur County Schools.

An educator with 32 years of experience, Dr. Stankus holds a PhD in Educational Leadership from West Virginia University, a Master of Arts in Counseling from Marshall University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary and Special Education from West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC). doing.

She has been Superintendent of Upshar County Schools for five years. Dr. Stankus has served as a teacher, special education teacher, counselor and principal in multiple counties throughout her career.

“We are delighted to have Dr. Stankus join our efforts at the West Virginia Department of Education,” said state superintendent David L. Roach. “She is a respected educator who is passionate about teaching, learning and children. It will be a great asset.”

Dr. Stankus was recognized as a Distinguished Alumni and received the WVWC Martin Luther King Community Partner of the Year award. Professionally, he is an Executive Member of the West Virginia School Administrators Association (WVASA) Board of Directors, Vice Chair of the Fred Eberle Career Technical Center Administrative Council, Past President of the West Virginia Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, Upshur County Development Authority, Advisory Board of Rotary Clubs, Family Resource Network.

Dr. Stankus will join Deputy Chief Michele Blatt as part of the division’s executive leadership team.

For media inquiries, please contact Christy Day at the West Virginia Department of Education Communications Department at 304-558-2699 or Christy.Day@k12.wv.us.