AUGUSTA COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — Augusta County Public Schools announced the appointment of Brock Barnes as Assistant Principal for Buffalo Gap Middle School effective July 1, 2026.

According to an online post, Barnes has recently served as a Social Studies Teacher at Apollo Middle School in Nashville, Tennessee. He has prior experiences in Augusta County where he began his teaching career, serving both Wilson Middle and Fort Defiance High Schools. He also coached Debate, History Bowl, and assisted with the Model General Assembly. Additionally, he worked in the ACPS Maintenance Department during the summer months assisting with work orders and helping the department prepare schools and grounds for the upcoming school year.

A graduate of Fort Defiance High School, Barnes earned a bachelor’s degree in history and social studies from Radford University and a master’s degree in educational leadership, also from Radford.

In 2023, Barnes was named Teacher of the Year at Fort Defiance High School. He was also this year’s commencement speaker at FDHS, encouraging graduates to become engaged in the democratic process and aspire to serve their respective communities after high school.

“Mr. Barnes possesses a growth mindset, positive outlook, and the determination that is necessary in the field of education. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, is respected by students and among his peers, and is a reliable professional. He values personal relationships and utilizes a collaborative approach in his work to ensure all students will have the opportunity to be successful. We are excited to have Mr. Barnes return to Augusta County to help lead Buffalo Gap Middle School,” says Dr. Kelly Troxell, Division Superintendent.