Assistant Principal Jennifer Raether, left, and Principal Derek Cantrell, right, shared Alleghany High School’s innovative practices with educators at the recent Southern Regional Education Board’s Making Schools Work Conference in Nashville, Tenn. (AHPS Photo)

AHS Leaders Showcase Innovation on National Stage    Low Moor, VA (July 21, 2026) - Alleghany High School leaders recently shared the school’s innovative work with educators attending the Southern Regional Education Board’s Making Schools Work Conference, held July 14-17 in Nashville, Tenn. Principal Derek Cantrell presented “People over Paperwork,” a session focused on how AHS is using artificial intelligence (AI) tools to reduce busywork, simplify processes and create more time for educators to focus on students and instruction. The presentation was met with great interest from conference participants, drawing a standing-room-only crowd. Because of the strong response, Cantrell was asked to present the session again during the conference. During the session, Cantrell shared practical examples of how AI can help school leaders make sense of data, connect results to action and reduce repetitive tasks. Participants also learned about creating “school leader bots” and ways to introduce AI tools that build trust, curiosity and teamwork among staff. “AI is not about replacing the important work educators do,” Cantrell shared. “It is about finding ways to reduce unnecessary tasks so we can spend more time supporting students and teachers.” Cantrell and Assistant Principal Jennifer Raether also joined together to present “Better Together: Turning ‘Why Us?’ into ‘Whee!’ — Building a Thriving School Culture through Change.” Their session focused on the importance of relationships, student voice and intentional communication in creating a positive school environment. The presentation highlighted strategies AHS uses to strengthen school culture, including student leadership opportunities, recognition programs and efforts to keep staff and students connected. “We know that a strong school culture starts with people,” Cantrell said. “When students and staff feel valued, heard and connected, great things happen.” Alleghany Highlands Public Schools Superintendent Kim Halterman praised Cantrell and Raether for sharing the school division’s work with educators beyond the local community. “Derek and Jennifer represent the innovation, dedication, and teamwork that make Alleghany County Public Schools special,” Halterman said. “Their willingness to share what is working in our schools helps highlight the work happening every day by our students and staff. We are proud of the ways our educators continue to learn, grow and lead.” Cantrell, the current Virginia High School Principal of the Year, continues to share his experiences at several professional events, including his recent formal recognition at the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals Conference in June.Â

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