Greetings, I am Dr. Dara Gill-Williams and it is my absolute pleasure to serve as the principal of Chesterfield Academy!  I was born and raised in New York. I moved to the Hampton Roads in 1988.  This year marks my 25th year as an educator in Norfolk Public Schools (NPS).  My husband and two of my children also work in NPS.  As a proud grandmother of two, I am excited about my grandson being in the Pre-Kindergarten 4-year-old program this year.

My educational journey began at Hampton University where I received a bachelor’s of Arts in Mathematics.  Shortly after I focused on early childhood during my time at Old Dominion University earning a Master’s of Science degree.  As I continued developing my love for teaching and learning, I earned my doctoral degree at NOVA Southeastern University.

Before joining the Chesterfield family, I served as the Assistant Principal of Tidewater Park Elementary School.  Over my career in NPS I worked at Little Creek Elementary, Ghent School, Dreamkeepers Academy, Ingleside Elementary, and Oceanair Elementary in different capacities.  I have served as an Instructional Specialist, Math Specialist, District Trainer, Mentor Teacher, and Inclusion Teacher. 

Thank you Chesterfield Academy for having me as your principal.  We will continue to serve all students at Chesterfield Academy with equity and excellence as we reset, restore, and reconnect during the 2021-2022 school year.  Let’s have an amazing year.

I have 26 years experience as an educator and 22 years in Norfolk Public Schools. I have had the privilege of serving as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, instructional coach, and assistant principal in the United States and abroad. 

I graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and Hampton University and have advanced degrees from Norfolk State University and Old Dominion University. 

I am pleased to serve as the assistant principal as Chesterfield Academy. My goals are to support teaching and learning and to create community connections.