School Board Names Washington-Liberty Principal

The School Board appointed Alexander Duncan, III, as the new Principal of Washington-Liberty High School, effective July 14.

With over two decades of experience in public education, Duncan brings a proven track record of instructional leadership, school transformation, and a deep commitment to equity and student success.

Most recently, Duncan has served as the Executive Principal at Alexandria City High School (ACHS), the largest high school in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In that role, he oversaw a complex, multi-campus structure of over 4,700 students and 500 staff, managing a $150 million budget and leading the school to achieve its highest graduation rate in a decade. ACHS was also recognized with the Virginia Board of Education’s Continuous Improvement Award during his tenure.

Prior to this role, Duncan served as the Campus Principal at ACHS’s Minnie Howard Campus and as Assistant Principal at the King Street Campus, where he was instrumental in implementing the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), strengthening instructional systems, and fostering safe, inclusive school cultures.

A former English teacher and instructional leader, Duncan began his career in the classroom and brings firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities teachers face. His leadership style reflects a student-centered, data-informed, and restorative approach, emphasizing high expectations, collaboration, and relationship-building with students, staff, and the broader community.

Duncan holds a Master of Science in Education Administration and Leadership from Trinity University in Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC. His extensive professional training includes certifications in restorative practices, culturally responsive instruction, special education co-teaching models, and nonviolent crisis intervention.

Known for his candor, humor, and hands-on leadership, Duncan is deeply committed to creating safe, equitable, and academically rigorous environments where all students can thrive. As Washington-Liberty High School enters its next chapter, Duncan’s blend of experience, vision, and heart makes him uniquely positioned to lead the school forward.