
Dear Covington-Harper Elementary Families and Staff,
As we begin a new school year, I am excited to welcome everyone back for my second year as Principal of Covington-Harper Elementary School. It has been a privilege to serve this incredible school community, and I am grateful for the relationships, partnerships, and successes we have built together over the past year.
Covington-Harper is a special place where students are cared for, challenged, and inspired to achieve their best. What makes our school exceptional is the commitment of our families, staff, and students to supporting one another and working together toward a shared vision of excellence. I am proud to be part of a community that values both academic growth and strong relationships.
This year, our school theme is "Built to Run - All In. All Together." Inspired by the belief that great schools are powered by teamwork, urgency, and a commitment to continuous growth, this theme reminds us that every member of our school community plays an important role in our success. Together, we will embrace high expectations, support one another, and move forward with purpose as we strive to provide the very best educational experience for our students.
As an educator and school leader, I believe in the power of hard work, perseverance, kindness, and collaboration. I encourage all of us to approach each day with a positive attitude and a willingness to give our best effort. When we are all in for our students and work all together toward common goals, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.
This year, we will continue to focus on creating a safe, welcoming, and academically rigorous environment where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed. We will celebrate achievements, learn from challenges, and remain committed to ensuring that all students receive the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Above all else, every decision we make will continue to be guided by what is best for our students. Their learning, safety, well-being, and future success remain at the center of our work. I am excited about what lies ahead and look forward to another school year filled with growth, achievement, and pride in being a Covington-Harper Cheetah.
Thank you for your trust, partnership, and support. Let's make this an amazing year together.
Built to Run - All In. All Together.
Let's Go!!!
Sincerely,
Mr. Brian Slater
Principal
Covington-Harper Elementary School 🐆

I am thrilled to introduce myself as a proud Assistant Principal of Covington-Harper Elementary School. This is my ninth year in education and third 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!

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.
