Deputy Superintendent and Chief of Schools

Mr. Kelly Guempel, Ed.S., a distinguished education professional with 29 years of dedicated service, has continually worked to elevate the educational experience for students, staff, and parents. Throughout his career, he has exemplified servant leadership, consistently striving to enhance school communities through a commitment to excellence in education.

Mr. Guempel’s career began as a classroom teacher, where he spent 11 years instructing Health & Physical Education in middle and high school settings. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he made significant contributions as a coach in various sports, including baseball, football, golf, wrestling, and strength training, instilling the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance in his students.

For the past 18 years, Mr. Guempel has held an array of leadership positions, each reinforcing his passion for school improvement and educational opportunities. His administrative journey has included roles as an administrative intern, assistant principal, principal, chief academic officer, chief of schools, deputy superintendent, and interim superintendent. Notably, he served as the Interim Superintendent for Spotsylvania County Public Schools (SCPS) during two separate terms—first from July to November 2022, and again from January to July 2024.

A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), Mr. Guempel earned his Bachelor of Science in Health & Physical Education in 1995, followed by a Master’s Degree in Administration and Supervision in 2006. He further advanced his educational leadership credentials with an Education Specialist degree in Central Office Leadership from the American College of Education, and he is currently completing his Doctorate in Educational Leadership, which he is set to receive in July 2025.

Mr. Guempel’s career is marked by notable achievements and a profound impact on student achievement. As Principal of Orange County High School, he led a transformation that elevated Standards of Learning (SOL) scores from below-average to the highest in the region. He also spearheaded the development of four new Career & Technical Education programs and successfully halved the school’s suspension rates. His leadership has earned numerous accolades, including six District Coach of the Year awards for his tenure as Head Wrestling Coach at Hermitage High School, recognition as a Friend of DECA at the 2019 state conference, and being named the Virginia High School Principal of the Year in 2019 by the Virginia SCA.

Mr. Guempel’s approach to leadership is rooted in fostering positive relationships, implementing goal-oriented processes, and achieving meaningful outcomes. His passion for student success and his commitment to professional growth have consistently shaped the educational environments he oversees.

Outside of his professional life, Mr. Guempel is an avid fisherman, a dedicated follower of college wrestling and football, and a passionate New York Mets fan. He has been an active volunteer in his community, coaching youth football, USA wrestling, and little league and USSSA baseball for nearly two decades.

Mr. Guempel and his wife, Layla, are proud parents to three adult children: Bishop, Carmen, and Jake.

Email: kguempel@spotsylvania.k12.va.us