Manassas, VA — Manassas City Public Schools has appointed Natalie Short as principal of R.C. Haydon Elementary School, effective July 1, 2026.
Short currently serves as assistant principal at Haydon Elementary School, a role she has held since July 2023. She previously served as assistant principal at Round Elementary School from 2021 to 2023. In these roles, she has supported student achievement initiatives, led schoolwide data analysis and instructional planning, overseen testing programs, and facilitated professional development to strengthen teaching and learning.
Short has been with Manassas City Public Schools since 2008, beginning her career as an instructional assistant at Baldwin Elementary School. She later served as an ESOL teacher at Baldwin Elementary and Metz Middle School and held leadership roles including Lead ESOL Teacher and ESOL Department Supervisor. In those positions, she supported program implementation, mentored staff, and coordinated services for multilingual learners across the division.
A graduate of Manassas City Public Schools, Short attended Round Elementary School, Baldwin Elementary School, and Metz Middle School before graduating from Osbourn High School.
“Natalie Short’s journey reflects what makes Manassas City Public Schools so special,” said Dr. Kevin Newman, Superintendent of Schools. “As a graduate of our schools, she brings both professional expertise and a deep personal connection to this community. She understands our students and families because she has lived this experience. That perspective, paired with her leadership, makes her an excellent choice to lead R.C. Haydon Elementary School.”
She holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from James Madison University and a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from Pennsylvania State University. She also holds Virginia teaching certifications in English as a Second Language (PreK–12), Middle Education (English 6–8), and Instrumental Music (PreK–12).
Throughout her career, Short has been actively involved in division leadership initiatives, including the MCPS Aspiring Principals Cohort, the Behavior Support System Steering Committee, and professional learning focused on cooperative learning and school improvement.
“Mrs. Short is a strong instructional leader with a clear focus on student achievement and high-quality teaching and learning,” noted Deputy Superintendent Craig Gfeller. “Her experience with data-driven decision-making, professional development, and supporting multilingual learners positions her well to lead continued growth at Haydon. She brings a collaborative approach that will elevate instruction and support success for every student.”
A meet-and-greet event will be scheduled prior to the start of the 2026–2027 school year to provide families, staff, and community members an opportunity to meet Short and learn more about her plans for the school.
Short succeeds Dr. Laura Goldzung who will serve as the division’s new Director of Instruction beginning July 1.