Mr. Olson is thrilled to be back at Salem for a second year as principal. This will be his 15th year in education having taught high school in Pittsburgh and then middle school social studies in Henrico County. Moving from the classroom to administration, he served at Fairfield, Brookland, and Carver Middle Schools. Mr. Olson is a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Ask him about the University of Pittsburgh or Virginia Commonwealth University as he is an alumnus of both. He is an avid fan of the Steelers and the James River Park System. Finally, he would love to chat with you about what you are reading; some of his favorite authors are Adam Silvera, Neal Schusterman, and Jason Reynolds. He could not be more excited about connecting with each student and family this year.

Nicholas_Olson@ccpsnet.net

Mrs. Mellard is excited to join the Salem family as associate principal for her 17th year in education.  A native of Virginia Beach, VA, Mrs. Mellard began her career as a social studies teacher and coach in Cumberland, VA.  In 2012, Mrs. Mellard relocated to Henrico, VA, where she served as a classroom teacher at the Generating Recovery of Academic Direction (GRAD)/Performance Learning Center (PLC) and then at Hermitage High School.  Moving from the classroom into administration, she served at Hermitage and Freeman High Schools as an assistant principal.  Mrs. Mellard earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Longwood University and later a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.  She loves spending time with her husband and daughters, scuba diving, and crafting.

Amanda_Mellard@ccpsnet.net

Mr. Sampson is beginning his eighteenth year in education and is excited to return to Salem Middle School for the second year. A native of Shenandoah, VA, Mr. Sampson began his education career as a band director before becoming an administrator.  Prior to coming to Salem, most recently, he was band and orchestra director at J.R. Tucker High School in Henrico and then assistant principal at Fluvanna County High School in Palmyra, VA.  Mr. Sampson received his Bachelor of Arts from James Madison University where he was also a member of the 400-member Marching Royal Dukes.  In 2014, he received his Master’s degree in Education Administration from Central Michigan University.  Mr. Sampson is an avid music-lover and enjoys spending time with his family, traveling and relaxing at the beach.

Frank_Sampson@ccpsnet.net

Ms. Stevens is excited to begin her twentieth year in education and her seventh year at Salem! Ms. Stevens began her career as a health and physical education teacher and coach in Tappahannock, VA, where she raised her two children. After living in Aylett, VA, for several years, she moved back to her hometown of Mechanicsville, VA. Ms. Stevens earned her Bachelor’s degree in Health, Physical Education and Exercise Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s degree in Human Services: Health & Wellness from Liberty University, and in December she will complete her master’s degree in Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia. She loves spending time with family and friends, listening to music, reading, sports and building relationships. She believes that when we choose the way we think, we change the way we act…..choose joy!

Renee_Stevens@ccpsnet.net