Deep Run High School will be missing a familiar face this year.

Aaron Spence, who has been principal at Deep Run since it opened in 2002, is leaving to become director of curriculum and instruction for Chesterfield County Public Schools. His final day at Deep Run has not been determined, but he said he probably will leave before school opens Sept. 2.

Henrico County school officials will begin a search for Spence's replacement immediately.

"We will use the same process we would for choosing any principal," said Henrico schools spokesman Mychael Dickerson. "Parents and staff will be involved."

Dickerson said parents will receive notification about meetings where they can give input into the hiring process.

Deep Run, in western Henrico, has been named one of America's Best High Schools by U.S. News & World Report. It serves more than 1,700 students. Spence called his departure bittersweet. "It's been a terrific seven years as principal," he said.

With or without Spence, Dickerson said Deep Run is ready for the 2008-09 school year.

"We are working with Chesterfield to make a smooth transition," Dickerson said.
Contact Lisa Crutchfield at (804) 649-6362 or lcrutchfield@timesdispatch.com.