The Valwood School Board of Trustees in Hahira announced Tuesday, October 6, 2026, the appointment of Chelsy Beninate as the school’s next head of school. Beninate will officially assume the role on July 1, 2027, succeeding current Head of School John Davis, who previously announced his intention to retire at the end of the 2026–2027 school year.
Beninate joins Valwood from Fort Worth Country Day in Texas, where she has spent the past eight years, currently serving as assistant head of school. During her tenure at Fort Worth Country Day, she also held positions as director of fine arts, director of the center for international studies, and director of special projects. Valwood School stated in a press release that her leadership experience encompasses nearly every aspect of independent school life, including academic and curricular innovation, strategic planning, campus operations, financial stewardship, school safety, and major capital projects. The school noted that Beninate has played an instrumental role in advancing institutional priorities, strengthening programs, and creating environments where students and faculty can thrive.
Prior to her time at Fort Worth Country Day, Beninate served as an academic dean, assistant principal, and band director. The school’s press release also highlighted her background as a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, where she served as a musician, noting that this experience brings a distinctive combination of discipline, creativity, and a deep commitment to service to her new role. Beninate was selected for and completed the National Association of Independent Schools 2023–24 Aspiring Heads Fellowship, which reflects her commitment to continued professional growth and school leadership. She holds a Master of Education from Abilene Christian University and a Bachelor of Music Education Degree from Texas Wesleyan University.
John Williams, chair of the Valwood Board of Trustees, commented on Beninate's appointment, stating that she “embodies Valwood’s mission of academic excellence, strong character, and service to others.” Williams further noted Beninate's understanding and embrace of Valwood’s culture and community, describing her as a collaborative leader who believes strong schools are built on relationships, which he said was evident in her connection with students, faculty, and parents during her campus visits.
The selection of Beninate followed a comprehensive global search led by a board-appointed Head of School Search Committee, which received support from The Education Group. The search process involved three finalists who participated in two-day campus visits, engaging with trustees, faculty, staff, parents, and students. Feedback gathered from these interactions helped to inform the final selection decision, according to the school.
Upon her appointment, Beninate expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with this opportunity and look forward to becoming part of a community that has already made my husband, Anthony, and I feel so welcome.” She added that she and her husband were struck by the genuine warmth and hospitality extended to them from the moment they arrived on campus. Beninate described a “palpable sense of joy” during their visit, noting the energy of the students, the pride of the faculty and staff, and the deep commitment of the parents and trustees. She emphasized that the way people spoke about Valwood demonstrated their love for the community, making it clear that Valwood is a place where relationships matter and people genuinely care for one another.
The Board of Trustees extended its gratitude to John Davis for his leadership and service to Valwood. Davis will continue to lead the school through the end of the 2026–2027 school year. Davis also welcomed Beninate to the Valwood family, stating, “This community means a great deal to me, and I look forward to supporting her as she prepares to lead Valwood into its next chapter.” He expressed confidence that Valwood’s students, faculty, and families have a bright future ahead under her leadership. Valwood School plans to share additional information regarding the leadership transition in the coming months.
