Meet our Admin Team

Areas of Supervision: Science, Health & P.E., Counseling, Security, Front Office

As the principal of Benton Middle School, I will work tirelessly to ensure a safe and positive atmosphere that is engaging and welcoming for students and their families, staff, and our community. In addition to a robust and global education, we will continue to meet the social emotional needs of our students. The PWCS Strategic Plan will be our guide on our educational journey.

I have been an educator for over 20 years and know the effect that excellent teaching and consistent communication has on relationships with our families. Together, we will continue to ensure all students, staff, and families feel accepted and respected.

Middle school is a pivotal time for young adolescents, and I am excited to lead Benton Middle as we continue to prepare our students for a thriving future. I look forward to meeting and working with our Benton families as we ensure a shared vision of providing the best for every child, every day.

Areas of Supervision: 8th Grade, Mathematics, English Language Learners Program, Gifted Program, Technology, Library, Custodial Team

I am honored to support the eighth-grade students and their families for the 2026-2027 school year. I am eager to apply my previous PWCS experience as an Assistant Principal, Administrative Research Coordinator, Professional Development Specialist for Secondary Mathematics, Summer School Administrative Intern, Mathematics Teacher, and former Department Head at Benton Middle School to serve this community in this role. I have earned my undergraduate degree from Clemson University, a master's degree at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, an educational specialist degree from Virginia Tech University, and a doctorate in Education at Old Dominion University. I am truly excited to continue serving the Benton Middle School community and to partner with our students, families, faculty, and staff in support of student success. If you need any help, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Areas of Supervision: 7th Grade, CTE, Music/Theatre, ELA, Reading, World Language

It is my pleasure to work with the seventh grade students and their families. This is going to be a great year! Benjamin Franklin has said, "an investment in knowledge pays the best interest." I've earned my undergraduate degree from George Mason University and have a Master's degree from the University of Mary Washington and George Mason University. Thank you for your continued support as we continue to work as a team and invest in our children's knowledge.

Areas of Supervision: 6th Grade, Special Education, Social Studies, Transportation, and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support

I am excited to begin my 2^nd year as Assistant Principal at Benton Middle School, home of the Cougars and 15th year as an educator. I will be serving as the 6th grade Administrator for the 2026-2027 school year. I previously served PWCS as an Administrative Intern, Teacher on Special Assignment, Special Education Department Chairperson, and Special Education Teacher. I am a graduate of The University of Scranton in Scranton, PA, where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education Social Studies and a Masters' Degree in Special Education. I then received my post-Masters' graduate certificate in Education Leadership from The University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, VA. I am passionate about teaching and learning and ensuring that all students graduate on time with the skills, knowledge, and habits of mind to create a thriving future for themselves and their communities. I will work to ensure all students have equitable opportunities to learn in a safe and positive school environment. Our motto at Benton is that we are "Better Together", and I look forward to working collaboratively with our school community.

Areas of Supervision: Science, Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS), Art, Business, Section 504 Administrator, and Co-Testing Coordinator

I am excited to join the Benton Middle School Administrative Team as an Administrative Intern for the 2026–2027 school year! As a proud Prince William County Public Schools graduate and former PWCS educator, I am especially grateful to return to the school division that helped shape my own educational journey.

Throughout my career in education, I have had the opportunity to serve students, families, educators, and school communities in a variety of roles, most recently as a School Climate Specialist with Newton County Schools in Georgia. These experiences have strengthened my passion for creating positive school cultures where students feel safe, supported, connected, challenged, and empowered to succeed.

I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hampton University, my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision from Clark Atlanta University and my Specialist degree in Education from Liberty University.  I am currently pursuing doctoral studies in Educational Law at Liberty University, continuing my commitment to lifelong learning, educational leadership, and advocacy for students.

My leadership philosophy is grounded in relationships, collaboration, high expectations, and a belief in the potential of every student. I am committed to supporting the PWCS Vision that every student graduates on time with the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind necessary to create a thriving future for themselves and their community. As a leader, I strive to embody the PWCS DRIVE competencies by championing the development of others, approaching challenges with resilience and optimism, thinking innovatively, responding strategically to the needs of our school community, and communicating effectively with students, families, staff, and community partners.

I believe our greatest impact happens when students know they are valued, educators feel supported, families are welcomed as partners, and we work collectively toward a shared vision of excellence. I look forward to building meaningful relationships throughout the Benton community and helping create opportunities for every Cougar to learn, grow, lead, and thrive.

I am honored to be part of the Benton family and excited for all that we will accomplish together because, at Benton, we truly are “Better Together!”

My name is Courtney Strauss, and I am honored to serve as the Dean of Students at Benton Middle School. I bring experience across a variety of roles in education, having served as a classroom teacher, Instructional Technology Coach, elementary school Assistant Principal, and most recently, Dean of Students at Beville Middle School. Each of these experiences has shaped my approach to leadership and strengthened my commitment to supporting student success.

At the heart of my work is a belief in the power of relationships. I pride myself on building strong, meaningful connections with students, families, and staff because I believe that when students know they are valued, supported, and connected to their school community, they are better able to thrive.

My educational philosophy is simple: I am “All In for Kids.” Every day, I strive to lead with energy, empathy, and an unwavering focus on doing what is best for students. I value equity, collaboration, and a positive school culture where every student feels seen, heard, supported, and a true sense of belonging.

Outside of school, I live in Manassas with my husband and our spirited 9-year-old daughter, Olivia, who is a fourth grader. Olivia keeps us busy with her many activities, including Girl Scouts, gymnastics, swimming, and diving. We also love spending time outdoors with our goldendoodle, Teddy, exploring local parks, trying new recipes together, and making the most of family time whenever we can.

I am excited to be part of the Benton Middle School community and look forward to building strong relationships with our students, families, faculty, and staff. I am committed to helping create a school experience where students feel connected, supported, and empowered to be their best. I am proud to join a community that knows we are truly “Better Together.”