06/15/2026
Nelson County Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Scott Belako as the new Principal of Nelson County High School. A veteran educator and instructional leader with 26 years of experience, Belako brings a proven record of improving student achievement, strengthening school culture, and fostering innovation in education.
Belako most recently served as Director of Instruction and Innovation for Nelson County Public Schools, where he focused on strengthening instructional practices, supporting educators, and ensuring students across the division had access to engaging and rigorous learning experiences. Prior to that role, he served as Principal of Nelson Middle School, where his leadership contributed to improved attendance, reduced discipline referrals, and increased academic performance.
Throughout his career, Belako has served in a variety of leadership positions, including teacher, assistant principal, elementary and middle school principal, Director of Transportation, and Director of Instruction. In each role, he has focused on building high-performing learning environments where students, staff, and families work together to achieve excellence. His leadership has resulted in stronger school culture, improved student outcomes, and expanded opportunities for student success.
Belako earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and a Master of Education degree from the University of Mary Washington. Following his appointment to school administration, he also completed administrative leadership coursework through Virginia Tech. His educational background, combined with more than two decades of experience in public education, has prepared him to lead schools and support student success at both the school and division levels.
In addition to his work within Nelson County Public Schools, Belako has presented at both state and national conferences and has served as a Regional Representative for the Virginia Association for Teaching, Leading, and Learning (VATLL). Having served students, staff, and families across multiple leadership roles within the division, he brings an understanding of the Nelson County community and a strong commitment to its continued success.
"I am honored and excited to serve as the next Principal of Nelson County High School," said Belako. "NCHS has a strong tradition of excellence, and I look forward to working alongside our students, staff, families, and community to build upon that foundation."
Belako said a key priority will be ensuring that every student is prepared for success beyond high school through Virginia's "3Es" framework - Enrollment, Enlistment, and Employment.
"By providing meaningful academic opportunities, career exploration, and real-world learning experiences, we will empower our Governors to graduate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to thrive in the pathway of their choice," he said.
During his tenure as Director of Instruction and Innovation, Belako helped lead several significant division initiatives, including the development of the division's Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guidance Document, the Virginia Tiered Systems of Support (VTSS) Handbook, division-wide professional learning efforts, and the adoption of high-quality instructional materials for both elementary and secondary schools.
"We are excited to welcome Mr. Belako as the next Principal of Nelson County High School," said Dr. Hester, Superintendent of Nelson County Public Schools. "Scott brings extensive experience in instructional leadership, school improvement, and relationship-building. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to student success and continuous improvement."
Dr. Hester noted that under Belako's leadership, schools across the division have demonstrated academic growth and improved student performance outcomes.
"Scott's ability to lead at both the school and division levels, combined with his collaborative leadership style and unwavering focus on students, makes him exceptionally well-positioned to lead Nelson County High School into its next chapter of success," said Hester.
Belako will officially assume his duties on July 1, 2026, as Principal of Nelson County High School and looks forward to partnering with students, staff, families, and the broader community as the school continues its tradition of excellence and prepares students for success in an ever-changing world.
