Jefferson County Public Schools announced today the appointment of two veteran educators to school principal positions.
Shawn Wilson will take over as the new principal of Norton Commons Elementary School, and Dr. Erica Woolridge will lead the Diane Porter Preschool.
Both administrators bring extensive backgrounds in instructional leadership, student support systems and district operations to their respective assignments.
Wilson tapped to lead Norton Commons Elementary
Wilson, who has served as the assistant principal at Norton Commons Elementary School since 2022, brings 24 years of education experience spanning elementary, middle and high school levels.
In a statement regarding his appointment, Wilson emphasized a leadership philosophy built on collaboration and high standards.
“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the NCES community,” Wilson said. In collaboration with our exceptional staff, I look forward to cultivating an environment where every student is valued, supported, and challenged with rigorous instruction.”
Wilson’s extensive professional background within the region includes:
Serving more than 20 years as an assistant principal across diverse educational settings, including J. Graham Brown School, Robert Frost Middle School and Bullitt East High School
Beginning his career in public education as an English teacher at Bullitt Central High School
Leading district-level and school-based student support initiatives, including Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) teams and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) programs
Participating in specialized leadership development, including the Kentucky Leadership Academy and the JCPS Equity Leadership Cadre from 2025 to 2026
Wilson holds a Specialist in Education degree and Rank I certification in educational administration, as well as a Master of Arts in Teaching, all from the University of Louisville.
Woolridge named principal of Diane Porter Preschool
Dr. Woolridge steps into the top leadership role at the Diane Porter Preschool after serving as the assistant principal of Indian Trail Elementary School since 2023.
Dr. Woolridge's professional career spans many leadership roles:
Serving as a professional school counselor at Indian Trail Elementary from 2015 to 2023, managing student records, academic planning, climate & culture activities, and all counseling services.
Working as a special education teacher at Jessie R. Carter, Phillis Wheatley and Indian Trail elementary schools.
Managing school-wide curriculum and intervention systems as a magnet coordinator and Response to Intervention (RTI) lead.
Dr. Woolridge holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development from the University of Louisville, a Rank I from Spalding University and a Master of Art in Teaching from Kentucky State University.
Her foundational philosophy is built on the belief that while each child's academic journey looks different, all children deserve the systematic support and encouragement necessary to thrive, she said.
Dr. Woolridge noted a personal connection to the center’s namesake, Diane Porter, an educator who dedicated nearly 40 years to public education as a teacher, counselor, principal and central office administrator, and who also previously chaired the Jefferson County Board of Education.
"It is a distinct honor to be named principal of the Diane Porter Preschool," Woolridge said. "I am committed to cultivating a school environment where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential. Leading an institution named for Diane Porter, whose service to JCPS families created such a lasting legacy, is a privilege I deeply respect. I look forward to collaborating with our families, staff, and the community to build a preschool culture that fosters growth and honors her legacy for generations to come."