The Region 5 Leadership Team is pleased to announce that Ms. Shele Banford has been named the new principal of London Towne Elementary School, effective July 1, 2024.

Ms. Banford currently serves as an assistant principal at Timber Lane Elementary School, a Title I school, where she has positively impacted students, staff and families for four years.  At Timber Lane, Ms. Banford collaborated with the leadership team to enhance the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), leading to significant improvements in student achievement.   She also partnered with the FCPS ESOL office to improve English Language Learners’ performance in mathematics and writing through targeted instructional strategies and professional development.   She led the inception of Timber Lanes’ Very Important Partners (VIP) Program to enhance family involvement in the school community.  Additionally, Ms. Banford led efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism by building strong relationships with families and implementing effective tracking systems.

Prior to her role at Timber Lane, Ms. Banford was a Central Literacy Resource Teacher and a Literacy Collaborative District Trainer where she provided extensive training and support to school-based coaches, promoting a comprehensive approach to literacy instruction.  In addition, she facilitated the design and delivery of district-wide professional development sessions, including the Summer Literacy Symposium.

Ms. Banford's connection to London Towne Elementary School runs deep, having previously served as a Literacy Collaborative Coach and Reading Resource Teacher at our school. During her tenure, she enhanced literacy practices resulting in consistent literacy instruction, improved student achievement and increased teacher efficacy.   She also streamlined the Responsive Instruction process to better address academic and behavioral concerns.

Ms. Banford has been recognized for her outstanding leadership and excellence in FCPS.    She was named the FCPS McLean Pyramid Outstanding Leader in 2024.  She was nominated for FCPS Outstanding Leader in 2021 and Outstanding First Year Teacher in 2004.  

Ms. Banford holds an Administration and Supervision Certification K-12 from the University of Virginia, a Master of Science, Reading and Literacy from Capella University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Regis University.  

Ms. Banford began her teaching career at London Towne, where she taught 1st and 3rd grades, making her return as principal a full-circle moment in her career. We are confident that Ms. Banford’s extensive experience, dedication to student success, and collaborative leadership style will greatly benefit the London Towne Elementary School community. Her proven track record in improving student outcomes and engaging families aligns with the school’s mission and values. Ms. Banford resides in Vienna with her two daughters, a rising sophomore and a graduating senior.  When she’s not at school, she enjoys spending time with family, time outdoors, and traveling.