Administrative Staff
Jerri Piacesi, Principal
[email protected]
Areas of Supervision: Security, Health & PE, Front Office, Counseling, Encore classes
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.
Dr. Kristin Rojas, Assistant Principal
[email protected]
Areas of Supervision: 6th Grade, Mathematics, Gifted, Technology, and New Teachers
I am honored to support the sixth-grade students and their families for the 2024-2025 school year. I am eager to apply my previous PWCS experience as an Assistant Principal for eighth grade, 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 so excited to be a part of the Benton Community! If you need any help, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Mary Newman, Assistant Principal
[email protected]
Areas of Supervision:
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.
Kathy Erickson, Assistant Principal
[email protected]
Areas of Supervision:
I am very excited to be working with our wonderful eighth graders and their families! This is my 17th year at Benton and my 35th year working with middle school students. During my career, I have taught sixth, seventh, and eighth grade Social Studies, Mathematics, and Language Arts. It has been my privilege to serve my school as team leader, advisory council chairman, lead mentor, NJHS sponsor, and administrator. I earned my undergraduate, master's degree, and Educational Specialist degrees from Virginia Tech. I am the mother of two terrific sons and three very spoiled dogs. I learn something every day, and the students are my best teachers. Please reach out to me if I can be of any help. Together, we will make it a great year!
Rachel Collins, Administrative Intern
[email protected]
Areas of Supervision: Science, Tech Ed, Business, Testing, Transportation
I am thrilled to be working with Benton Middle School students and families. During my career, I have been an Elementary School Teacher and taught Middle School Science and Math. It has been my honor to serve PWCS as a Summer School principal, SOL Remediation Academy Coordinator, Lead Mentor, Classified Professionals’ Day Presenter, VDOE Science Teacher SOL Cohort member, Science Department Co-Chair, Science CLT Lead, NJHS Sponsor, and Robotics Coach. I earned my Undergraduate degree and Endorsement in School Administration & Supervision from the University of Mary Washington. My Master’s degree is from Marymount University. Maya Angelou can be quoted as saying, “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” Together, we can all succeed in the Benton community.