Brian Slater - Principal
Dear Covington‑Harper Elementary Families and Staff,
I am thrilled and honored to introduce myself as the new Principal of Covington‑Harper Elementary School. From the moment I learned about this opportunity, I knew this was a special school community. Covington‑Harper has a strong reputation for caring about students, fostering learning, and building meaningful relationships, and I am excited to become part of such a wonderful team of students, families, and educators.
I bring with me more than nine years of administrative experience in education, during which I have had the privilege of serving diverse school communities. Throughout my career, I have focused on supporting teachers, partnering with families, and ensuring that schools remain safe, supportive, and academically strong. I believe that great schools are built through collaboration, shared goals, and a clear commitment to student success.
I firmly believe in the values of hard work, a positive attitude, and treating others with respect. I encourage students and adults alike to give their best effort each and every day, even when things feel challenging. When we approach our work with determination, kindness, and a belief in ourselves and one another, amazing things can happen. These principles will guide my leadership and help shape our school culture.
I am truly looking forward to working together to continue building Covington‑Harper Elementary into the best it can be. By strengthening relationships, celebrating successes, and learning from one another, we will ensure that our school remains a place where students feel valued, challenged, and inspired to grow. I am eager to learn from this community and build on the great work already taking place.
Above all else, I want you to know that every decision I make will be rooted in what is best for our students. Their learning, safety, and well‑being will always come first. I am excited for the journey ahead and look forward to a successful school year filled with growth, achievement, and pride in Covington‑Harper Elementary.
Let's Go!!!
Sincerely,
Mr. Slater
Principal, Covington‑Harper Elementary School
Alexis James - Assistant Principal
I am thrilled to introduce myself as a proud Assistant Principal of Covington-Harper Elementary School. This is my second year here at CHES, and I am honored to be part of a school community that values excellence, equity, and connection.
I was born and raised in Loudoun County, Virginia, and have lived in Prince William County for the past five years. I earned my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a STEM specialization from East Carolina University (Go Pirates!) in 2018, followed by my master's in educational leadership in 2019. I'm currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at Liberty University.
Before stepping into administration, I taught 5th grade in both Loudoun and Prince William County Public Schools and served as an Equity Lead in Loudoun County. Equity in education is my passion - I believe every child deserves both "mirrors" to see themselves reflected in their school experience and "windows" to understand the lives of others.
I am deeply committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and joyful learning environment where all students feel seen, heard and valued. I also believe that strong partnerships with families are essential to student success, and I look forward to working together to support and uplift every child at CHES.
Go Cheetahs!
Roberta King - Assistant Principal
Hello Covington-Harper Elementary School Families and Staff.
I am grateful to be an Assistant Principal at Covington-Harper Elementary School. Every day, I am part of the incredible learning, growth, and joy that fills our school. Thank you for your trust, your collaboration, and your commitment to helping our school thrive. I am proud of who we are and excited for all we will continue to accomplish together.
I began my education career as a substitute teacher here in Prince William County, later gaining hands-on experience as both a Special Education Teaching Assistant and a Physical Education Teaching Assistant. These early roles strengthened my passion for creating inclusive and engaging learning environments.
After completing my teaching endorsement, I taught Fourth and Fifth grades and ESOL, for all grade levels, which deepened my understanding of diverse learning needs. Motivated to expand my impact, I returned to school to earn my administrative endorsement which has prepared me to serve and lead at a broader level.
I hold a Master's degree in The Social Foundations of Education from The University of Virginia and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from The George Washington University. My doctoral research focused on teachers' experiences in departmentalized instructional settings with a focus on specialized instruction and purposeful curriculum design to support teachers in delivering high-quality learning experiences for all students.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and, whenever possible, relaxing at the beach.
Roberta King
Assistant Principal
Christopher Knighting - Assistant Principal
More information coming soon!